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September 2001 Reviews by
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E-mails | General Info | LMNOP®
| Official T-Shirts | Order Form | Review
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September 2001 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
September 2001
Comment Piece:
What Matters?
Do you ever wonder if anything matters? If so, exactly what is it that matters anyway? We've been doing a great deal of thought about this topic lately and we have come to the conclusion that nothing matters (again). Oh sure. There are all kinds of things that people feel certain are very, very important...but when you look at their situations realistically you come to the conclusion that the importance they place on any particular person, place, or thing is only in their imagination. So, after one comes to the conclusion that nothing matters...then what? Should one attempt to place importance on something anyway? After all, what is the point of living if nothing and no one is important? Actually, placing false importance on things can be a temporary solution. Of course, it is important for the individual to realize that the importance is artificial. Does music matter? Not really. How about friends? Are they important? In the big scheme of things, no. How about the earth? Plants and animals? Nope, sorry. What about love? And happiness? No, no, no, no, no. In the end, you must accept the fact that everything and everyone is nothing more than a big letdown. Ho hum. The world and all life in it is, unfortunately, quite dull and BORING. Ooops...we almost forgot about YOU. You are very, VERY important. Yes you are! Say, "Yes I am, yes I am!" You are the most unique and important person EVER!!!
Arabian Travels - Six Degrees Collections (CD, Six
Degrees, Middle Eastern/techno/dance)
One of the more interesting and puzzling occurrences over the past several
years has been the increasingly common merging of Middle Eastern music with
modern techno/dance music. At first we thought the whole idea was rather
strange as we were introduced to the sound by the likes of Banco de Gaia...but
over time and given more thought, the intertwining of the two styles actually
seems appropriate. After all, both styles are based upon repetitive rhythms
and music that is intended to put the listener into a trance-like state.
For folks who haven't yet been introduced to this new wave of techno artists
(or for those who have but want to hear more), this various artists collection
from San Francisco's Six Degrees label will provide a very entertaining
overview. In addition to the previously mentioned B. de Gaia, the disc also
features some wonderfully trippy tracks by Fifth Sun, Karsh Kale,
Arabic Breakbeats, Ekova, Acid Queen, and more. The
recording quality is top notch, and the disc has an amazing feel of continuity
considering that these compositions were all recorded at different times
and in different places. Exotic, infectious, and melodic, we'll be keeping
our eyes open for more things on this esoteric label... (Rating: 5)
Afroman - The Good Times (CD, Universal,
X)
We absolutely HAD to review this if for no other reason than it contains
the incredibly hilarious tune "Because I Got High." (The song
is kinda like "99 Bottles of Beer" except the lyrics refer to
pot.) It's so refreshing to see a song like this become a hit. In these
overly paranoid times we are living in there are so many retards that are
so goddamned afraid of dope. It's nice to see someone stand up and show
how ridiculous this fear really is. And Universal Records deserves an award
for supporting an artist who is so obviously offensive as well as pro-marijuana.
Some of you may be saying, "But this sounds like every other rap artist
on the planet!" Ah, not so dear reader... For you see, unlike rap artists...this
fellow is extremely silly and ridiculous...and that's EXACTLY why we dig
what he's doing. Afroman's real name is Joseph Foreman. This
guy would make Richard Pryor proud. He's certainly not afraid to
offend anyone. What's he into? Getting high, drinking, and pussy. (Now
that's the kinda guy WE like here in this filthy campground.) The best
thing about this album is that once you get past the hilarious lyrics...there's
still some fun, thumpy music to enjoy. We have heard few artists in the
past decade who take themselves less seriously than this guy. Whatcha wanna
bet Afroman becomes a really BIG star...? This is a goddamn RIOT. (Rating:
4+)
Bows
- Cassidy (British Import CD, Beggars
Banquet, Dub/trippy pop)
Bows is the latest musical project of British wonderkid Luke Sutherland.
Most people will remember Mr. Sutherland as the leader of the band Long
Fin Killie, although he is also an author of books as well as a part-time
violinist with the band Mogwai. Whew. This is the second Bows release.
Luke presents twelve dreamy tracks of slightly surreal pop that feature
his own vocals as well as several guest vocalists. At times some of the
arrangements remind us of seventies progressive hero Steve Hillage...but
most of the material is more up-to-date and subtle. Instead of presenting
predictable pop ditties, Mr. Sutherland uses the recording studio like a
canvas on which to paint mesmerizing audio landscapes. Sounds blur in and
out of one another while hypnotic rhythms pulse away in the background.
In a way, this is almost like listening to muzak on acid. Whatever it is,
it is calming, fluid, and different. Many of these tunes are breathtakingly
beautiful. Our favorites include "Luftsang," "Boy Blunt,"
and "Sun Electric." (Rating: 4+++)
The
B-Sides - Yes, Indeed, the B-Sides, Quite!
(Independent CD, Pop/rock)
We had no choice but to review this. Any band of young gentlemen who put
this much positive energy into what they're doing deserve coverage. Personally,
we think that it takes more balls and guts to record happy music than hateful,
mean music. After all, virtually anyone can blare out bad noise and
write mean lyrics. But how many people can create positive energy in a true
and meaningful fashion? These men not only have a refreshing approach to
making music...but they are also capable or writing some damn good tunes.
Purposely self conscious pop tunes like "The Theme Song" and "Megan"
remind us of the general approach of The Turtles. Folks who hate
the happy stuff will want to steer clear of this. But for the more open-minded
listeners out there, this obscure little album contains some real gems...
(Rating: 4+++)
The Casualties - Die Hards (CD, Side
One Dummy, Punk rock)
If you think punk rock is dead, think again. And if you think punk rock
styles from the seventies are a thing of the past, then you will again need
to think again. This New York band has been carrying on the grand tradition
of punk rock for the past decade with their spiked and brightly dyed hair,
leather jackets, and multiple studs. Even the album title seems to suggest
where these guys are at with their image and sound. The songs on Die
Hards is, as you might expect, frantic and loud thrash rock music that
is played specifically for all those kids out there who like to smash and
crash into each other and jump off of stages. We have absolutely no doubt
upon listening to this album that in concert The Casualties drive
kids into an absolute frenzy. Tunes like "Nightmare," "Get
Off My Back," and "Can't Stop Us" will drive adults up the
wall...but kids will no doubt LOVE it. (Rating: 4)
Charity Empressa - Charity Empressa (CD, Absalom
Recordings, Ambient/trance pop)
Wow. What a stunning piece of audio art. In a very short amount of time,
Canada's Absalom Recordings has become of of our favorite music labels...and
this release is a good example of why we feel this way. Actually this particular
disc is like a double dose of excellence...because Charity Empressa
is the latest project undertaken by Eric Campuzano, who is also a
member of babysue favorite The Lassie Foundation. Mr. Campuzano
began this project in part because of the influence of Chris Colbert
and Nusrat Fateh Ali Kahn. The compositions on this album are strangely
calming and create an odd drone that puts the listener into a truly cosmic
state. The eleven tracks on this album contain lengthy instrumental sections,
but vocals do fade in and out. The more we listen to this CD the harder
it is to describe...? Eric sure knows how to mingle with the right folks.
Members of The Autumns, Starflyer 59 (yes!), and Duraluxe
make guest appearances on this disc. A wonderfully fascinating and heady
trip, Charity Empressa hits all the right targets dead center... (Rating:
5+++)
Chimaira - Pass Out of Existence (CD, Roadrunner,
Growler rock)
Loud and obnoxious, Chimaira is a band that is certain to make parents
feel threatened. This six-man-band is raunchy and frantic, and they definitely
have that Satanic sound that makes teenage boys get husky. Much better than
your average growler rock band, the guys in Chimaira write some good tunes.
And while Pass Out of Existence is obviously not for everyone, it
will likely go over really big for those who like this style of music. We
are not usually fence sitters, but in the case of growler rock we are relatively
picky with regard to what bands we will listen to on a regular basis. These
guys get bonus points for adding a great deal more variety than we are accustomed
to, but this is still basically angry and violent death metal... (Rating:
3+)
The Crystal Method - Tweekend (CD, Geffen,
Techno/electronic/dance)
Wow. We liked this band's first album but Tweekend blows us completely
OUT THE WINDOW. The Crystal Method is two fellows: Scott Kirkland
and Ken Jordan. Their debut album that came out a few years ago thrust
them instantly into the spotlight. Rather than immediately follow it up
with meaningless fodder, these gentlemen took their time recording an album
that they felt would be better than their first. Boy did they succeed. If
you think electronic music has no heart or soul, a few spins of this disc
will change your mind. What is most striking about these guys' approach
to music is that by not writing and recording standard tunes they have managed
to find a large audience. Perhaps other artists should take note of this.
As hard as it is to believe, in order to succeed you don't necessarily HAVE
to sound like other successful groups. The Crystal Method is a case in point.
Their bass-heavy sweeping electronics are psychedelic, but the rhythms provide
enough substance for the average listener to latch onto. If you like thick
meaty beats and trippy electronics, you won't do much better than this.
Rather intense dance music. (Rating: 5)
Detroit Grand Pu Bahs - Funk All Ya'll (CD, Jive,
Funk/pop/techno/dance)
Great funky dance music...! And these folks have a definite sense of humor
about what they're doing. Detroit Grand Pu Bahs is the duo consisting
of Mack Goudy Jr. and Andy Toth. Together the two present
some thick and nasty funked-out dance music that features high-tech effects
and thick, meaty beats. Goudy and Toth have coined a new phrase to describe
their music..."funkno" (a combination of "funk" and
"techno"). Actually, their new descriptive term fits their music
perfectly. Funk All Ya'll contains fifteen beat crazy dance tracks
that will have club folks sweating their noodles off. Our favorites here
are the title track, "One Hump or Two" (funny stuff here), "After
School Special," "Off Beat Killer," and "Rain."
Cool, funny, and energetic, Detroit Grand Pu Bahs are reeling and rocking
in their own unique space... (Rating: 4+++)
Eclipso
- Hero and Villain in One Man! (CD, Death
Barney, Pop)
YES. Yes, yes, yes, yes...YES. If you think sincere, upbeat, infectiously
catchy and hopelessly throbbing happy pop music is dead...Eclipso
will prove you wrong. The band is the brainchild of Colorado's Bruce
Gordon, a man who has an amazing melodic sense as well as a true flair
for arrangements and harmonies. Hero and Villain in One Man! is like
a non-stop string of underground hits. But bear in mind we do not mean "hits"
in the normal sense of the word. A "hit" in current times seems
to imply boring idiot crap (i.e., N-Sync, etc). We're talking hits
in the grand tradition of what hits OUGHT to be...super catchy, super smart,
well-constructed pieces of heavenly melodic art (y'know...the kinda stuff
The Turtles recorded...). All twelve tracks on this album will have
pop fans tripping all over themselves to heap praise upon this man for creating
an album this amazingly cohesive and strong. We have seldom heard harmony
vocals sound this good...EVER. Although all the compositions here are nothing
short of fantastic, our top favorites are "Nothing's Gonna Happen,"
"This Means War," "Guess I'm Dumb," and "The Last
Time." Even though this is a brand new release, in our minds this has
already become an INSTANT CLASSIC. This will easily end up being one of
the very BEST releases of the year. Oh...and we must not forget to mention
that this was touched by the golden production fingers of Mr. Earl Mankey
(!!!)...so you KNOW the sound quality kicks ass. Essential listening. (Rating:
5+++)
The Four Corners - Say You're A Scream (CD, Kindercore,
Rock/pop)
Yet another intriguing new band from the seemingly unending supply of exciting
new artists residing in Athens, Georgia. While the cover photo might lead
one to believe that this band is a Velvet Underground clone, nothing
could be further from the truth. The Four Corners are basically a
retro-garage pop band with one major difference. The vocalist is a young
lady with a super smooth voice. The band's lo-fi approach to writing and
recording is refreshing and forces the listener to concentrate on the music
rather than recording techniques. Interestingly, this album is divided into
two halves...a mono half and a stereo half. The first half of the album
features 14 tracks in mono and following that are the same 14 tracks mixed
in stereo. While we like the idea, we definitely prefer the stereo mixes.
And for anyone who might be saying to themselves, "But I don't WANT
to hear the same song twice each time I play the disc!" our response
is that you can just pick the half you like best and burn your own CD of
those mixes. The Four Corners sound something like a cross between Ivy
and Steppenwolf. Our favorite tracks are "The Secret Life"
and "Don't You Wanna Hear Me." (Rating: 4)
Fugu
- Fugu 1 (CD, Minty Fresh,
Pop)
Hmmmm...different. Very different. Fugu is a French band that has
had connections with cult favorites Saint Etienne and Stereolab
in the past (Laetitia Sadier even lends vocal talents to one track
on this album). That said, this band doesn't sound too much like either...although
there are similarities in the overall approach. The songs on this album
are centered around the harpsichord, and that alone should alert you that
these folks are approaching things from a different angle. Actually, the
general sound here reminds us of Harpers Bizarre is many ways...although
perhaps the most appropriate comparison is The High Llamas. The band
comes up with fantastic arrangements throughout this album, incorporating
cello, trumpet, organ, guitars, and numerous other instruments and noises.
At times the songs sound slightly goofy ("Vibravox") and at other
times they approach pop from an almost Kinks-like perspective ("Monocorde").
In still other cases, we hear traces of Sparks ("Tsimbalon").
This is a very smart collection of well-produced obtuse pop music heavy
on melodies and with a distinct penchant for clever instrumentation. Peculiar
and yet strangely calming... (Rating: 5)
Gilbert Gil & Milton
Nascimento - Gil & Milton (CD, Atlantic, Brazilian)
Two superstars of Brazilian music...and we're so out of it we had never
heard of EITHER one until now. Duh. Oh well, better late than never...?
This release marks the first time that both of these fellows have recorded
together. Gilbert Gil has released over 30 albums and has performed
in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America. Milton Nascimento
released his first album in 1967 and has also released close to 30 albums...in
addition to touring North America, Europe, Japan, and Latin America. Not
surprisingly, this is a big-budget recording...everything has a nice glossy
sheen. But that doesn't detract from the music. This album contains a whopping
fifteen tracks. Our favorites are "Sebastian," "Trovoada,"
"Dora," and "Palco." (Rating: 3++)
The
Isley Brothers - Eternal (CD, Dreamworks, Soul/pop)
Anyone who has been recording music for 40 years and can STILL produce something
credible deserves bonus points. Ronald and Ernie Isley's Eternal
sounds amazingly fresh and vital...perhaps due in part to some assistance
by some very talented friends. Artists who offer a lending hand on this
album include Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Raphael Saadiq,
Angela Winbush, and Jill Scott. We have been very optimistic
of late about the resurgence of soul music that seems to be happening. The
disappointing rap invasion that seemed to rule the world of black music
for such a long time has hopefully run its course...so the next logical
step would be for artists to embrace the original soul sounds from the 1960s.
Perhaps The Isley Brothers are attempting to capitalize on the latest
wave of soul, or perhaps their new release is just coincidental. In any
case, this is a surprisingly fresh album of glitzy soul pop that will please
old fans as well as (hopefully) hook the brothers some new ones. The tracks
on this album are slick, slick, SLICK. And they have enlisted the assistance
of some top notch backup singers that really helps to push these tunes to
a higher level. Tracks like "Move Your Body," "Warm Summer
Night," and "You Didn't See Me" ought to land the Isley Brothers
right back into the limelight in no time. Nice stuff. (Rating: 5)
Toby
Keith - Pull My Chain (CD, Dreamworks Nashville, Country/pop)
Yet another superb release from our favorite modern country artist. Some
readers might accuse us of supporting obscure underground acts and dragging
all commercial artists through the mud. We admit that we are guilty of doing
this at times...but only when the shoe fits. In the case of Toby Keith,
all the attention and success are well deserved. Because this gentleman's
music is so damn catchy and wonderfully refreshing, it wouldn't bother us
in the slightest if every song he recorded hit #1 on the charts. This is
Mr. Keith's eighth album (dedicated to his father this time around). Just
like all the others, it features excellent super clean country pop. What
really separates this man from other country artists is his voice. Man oh
MAN can this fellow sing. His deep masculine voice is always instantly recognizable...and
even when he's singing the most ridiculous lyrics in the world (which does
happen at times) you still find yourself hopelessly drawn into his world.
Pull My Chain is Toby Keith's strongest album to date. This time
around he has combined all of the aspects of his previous albums with even
better arrangements and an even stronger style of production. Picking favorites
is difficult because there is not a bad apple in the bunch. "I'm Just
Talkin' About Tonight," the lead track, has the most obvious hit potential.
The title track also sounds like a monster hit. While Mr. Keith is mainly
known for his louder, honky tonk pop tunes, the stuff that really gets us
going is the less obvious material. Accordingly, the more pensive material
is the strongest here. "You Leave Me Weak" is a fantastic romantic
ballad that'll have you reaching for your hankie in an instant. "The
Sha La La Song" has a great singalong chorus and just begs to be played
repeatedly. The beautiful "Yesterday's Rain" (co-written with
Scotty Emerick) is a good example of just how good this guy can write
and sing. Without a doubt, the real champ on this album is "You Didn't
Have As Much To Lose." The song is pure proof that Keith is not just
a throwaway hit machine...but instead one of the most important country
vocalists of our time. While we feel certain that country fans will go ape
over this album, it will most likely appeal to all fans of great pop music...
(Rating: 5+++)
Lanterna - Elm Street (CD, Badman,
Progressive instrumental)
This is a stunningly beautiful collection of instrumental compositions with
traces of psychedelia as well as trance...although the overall mood is subdued
and hypnotic. Lanterna is Henry Frayne, a man who is obviously
driven by motives other than commercial success. Frayne has had previous
releases on both the Parasol and Rykodisc labels. Even though this man records
wonderful music, we can certainly see why he remains an underground cult
favorite. As great as these tunes are, they have very little that would
appeal to commercial radio stations. First, there are no vocals...and that
fact alone limits airplay. Secondly, melodies are secondary to the overall
mood and interaction of the various instruments. Like Tristeza (another
great hypnotic instrumental band), Lanterna songs are meant to induce
moods and feelings rather than make you bounce around the room singing along.
Heady numbers like "Elm Street," "Departures," "Wolves,"
and "Glass" make this album a super relaxing and reflective listen...
(Rating: 5)
Lefty
- 4 3 2 1 (CD, Interscope,
Power pop/punk)
Nice punchy and loud pop rock heavy on melodies and hooks. While we really
dig the sound of Lefty, we'd be willing to bet that their overall
approach will alienate most folks. The band is too loud and crunchy for
your average pop music fan...but the band's songs are far too melodic for
your average little punkin' head. So...where does that leave Lefty? Most
likely playing for a smaller audience than they deserve, as these guys present
some vibrant tunes on 4 3 2 1. Over the course of the thirteen tunes
on this album, these guys prove that not only can they rock out...but they
also are just as good at presenting reflective pop music. Even thought the
anti-female anthem "Girls" (the single) really is the standout
track here, there are still plenty of other catchy tunes that are certain
to please... (Rating: 4)
Lifer
- Lifer (CD, Universal,
Hard rock)
Hmmm...an odd mix here. Imagine mixing the guitars and rhythm section from
Pantera with some of the basic song structures of bands like Pearl
Jam...and what do you get? Most likely, something similar to Pennsylvania's
Lifer. The band has a nasty loud side that is countered by some very
poppy singalong material. Obviously the formula is working, as the second
tune on this album ("Boring") is already a big hit for the band.
The two sides of this band are somewhat schizophrenic, but the guys seem
to manage rather well. Not too loud and not too soft (Goldilocks
would dig it...), Lifer will probably please folks who don't want things
to swing too far in either direction... (Rating: 3+)
Los
Straitjackets - Sing Along With the Straitjackets
(CD, Cavalcade / Yep Roc, Pop/rock)
Hmmmm... Let's see now...What WOULDN'T an instrumental band do... Most likely,
they would not release an album with vocals. But in this case, that is exactly
what Los Straightjackets have done. This increasingly popular band
has previously released three full-length instrumental albums. So perhaps
for a change of pace...as well as to surprise their listeners...the guys
invited guest vocalists to step in for this album. And Jesus Christ Almighty...what
a list of guests they lined up (!!!). Folks lending their vocal talents
to this disc include Big Sandy, Mark Lindsay, El Vez,
Exene Cervenka, Nick Lowe, Leigh Nash, and many more.
For an album featuring so many different vocalists, this album is amazingly
cohesive. But that's probably due to the infectious and energetic performance
of the masked men themselves. A upbeat batch of big time FUN. (Rating: 4+++)
Machine Head - Supercharger (CD, Roadrunner,
Goddamn HARD rock)
Really, REALLY hard rock. Not only is this band really loud and really hard...they're
also really, really GOOD. (You certainly can't say that about most of the
ultra loud nasty bands out there.) This is Machine Head's fourth
album, and it will literally blow your BRAIN out of your SKULL (as well
as your intestines out of your gut area). As soon as the album kicks off
with the chunky masculine energy of "Bulldozer" you know immediately
that these guys are the real thing. What we admire most about these four
gents is that they have enough guts and imagination to avoid playing a droning
blur of loud noise...which is what most really loud rock bands do. This
band comes up with tons and tons of meaty guitar riffs and they have a driving
rhythm section that should make any rock and roll racer throttle into high
gear. Machine Head definitely have a really harsh death metal sound, but
their evil side is counterbalanced with some very intriguing progressive
elements that make our heads swirl. Intense rock and roll energy abounds
throughout this CD, but our top favorites here are "White-Knuckle Blackout!,"
"Only the Names," " Brown Acid," and "Supercharger."
This band should appeal to fans of Monster Magnet...although these
guys are much more abrasive and out of control... Wild stuff. (Rating: 5)
Mink Lungs - The Better Button (CD, Arena
Rock Recording Company, Rock/pop)
Mink Lungs are a band in the truest sense of the word, as all four
members (Gian Carlo Feleppa, Jennifer "Miss Frosty" Hoopes,
Tom Galbraith, Tim Feleppa) equally share the spotlight. So...what do
they sound like? A great many bands including The Wedding Present,
The Pixies, Fuzzy, and even The Kinks. Listening to
The Better Button is like listening to a various artists compilation
where you have no idea what to expect next. One minute the band is playing
buzzsaw power pop, the next minute they're playing soft and pensive, and
then before you know it they're experimenting with noise. This schizophrenic
approach is intentional, as the band obviously doesn't want to be easily
pigeonholed. The plan works, as this is a very difficult album to pinpoint
and to describe. This one will take a lot of listening to figure out, but
our initial favorites are "I Sell Love," "Think Of Me"
(great tune), and "Peep Show." Unorthodox. (Rating: 4+)
John Morton - Outlier: New Music for Music Boxes (CD, Innova
Recordings, Modern classical/abstract instrumental)
This is an interesting idea in terms of the overall concept as well as the
execution. We've always been fascinated by music boxes, so this CD immediately
caught our attention. This is not music box music in traditional terms.
Instead, composer John Morton uses music boxes as musical instruments...bleeding
them in and out of the mix...layering several boxes (and several tunes)
on top of one another so that the effect is like a swirling blur of tinkling
bells...and mutating their overall sound so that their sound is somewhat
disturbing. This disc will appeal to a very limited audience (that's an
understatement). The album is divided into seven sections (sections four
through six are actually one long piece). This is a strange and bewildering
album. Quite puzzling, peculiar, and strangely familiar. This is one that
will undoubtedly have your friends asking questions while it's playing...
Odd and slightly trance-like... (Rating: 4+++)
Now It's Overhead - Now It's Overhead (CD, Saddle
Creek, Pop)
Funny how like-minded folks tend to gravitate toward one another...even
when they are hundreds of miles apart. Many years ago when the world had
its sights focused on Athens, Georgia, the city was producing substandard
and boring acts (R.E.M., The B-52s, blah blah blah, yap yap
yap...). Now that the city actually has an amazing number of incredibly
talented bands who call Athens home, only small pockets of underground fans
seem to be paying attention. No matter. The best things in life are always
appreciated by a select few. Though the Saddle Creek label is based in Nebraska
(and usually signs Nebraska acts), the label folks decided to make a smart
exception by releasing the debut CD from the strangely titled Now It's
Overhead. The band is made up of members of Bright Eyes and Azure
Ray...both of which have previously received well-deserved and stunning
praise in the pages of babysue. This band's material is coming from
the same general direction as the members' other bands...but there seems
to be more of an emphasis on recording technique here (probably due to the
fact that band member Andy LeMaster works in the studio where this
album was recorded). For those out there (like ourselves) who become very,
very tired of so much crap creeping about in underground pop circles, this
band and album will come as a pleasant surprise. No throwaway tunes here...and
the main emphasis is on composition. There are several tracks that make
it all the way up our driveway and into the carport, including "Who's
Jon" (great melody), "7th Grade Roller," and "Goodbye
Highway." Well written and well executed... (Rating: 4+++)
Owen
- Owen (CD, Polyvinyl
Record Company, Soft pop)
Owen is the one man band consisting of Mike Kinsella. Mr.
Kinsella was formerly in several bands including American Football,
Cap'n Jazz, Joan of Arc, and Owls. His first solo album
finds him dabbling in some beautiful musical arenas. The subtle tunes are
based around guitars, but these are not predictable nor are they standard
compositions. The overall sound here reminds us of the great underrated
Radar Bros, except Mr. Kinsella's music is slower, more sparse, and
places more of an emphasis on acoustic instruments. The vocals are soft
and subtle, and fit the music perfectly. The idea here seems to be to put
the listener into a calm trance. If this is indeed the case, then this disc
is a complete success. Some absolutely stunning guitar lines creep in and
out of these tunes. Our favorite lyric: "I can't do my hair right or
have a good time." (Rating: 4+)
The
Pills - Kick In (CD, Monolyth
Record Group, Pop/rock)
Fierce pumped up happy pop music played with fresh conviction and definite
style. Opening up with the infectious, hyperactive "Pop Goes Mandy"
these guys let the listener know immediately where they're coming from.
The guitars are loud and the rhythms are speedy indeed, but neither get
in the way of the band's soaring melodies. Drummer Jamie Vavra is
a fantastic drummer, continually churning out a solid beat with tons of
frenetic improvisation. Bassist/vocalist Corin Ashley keeps the throbbing
bass lines going while guitarists/vocalists Clyde O'Scope and David
Thompson spew out guitar chords with precision. The overall feeling
when get listening to this band is the same feeling we get when we hear
very early Beatles or even Elvis Costello before he hit it
big. These men are excited about what they're doing and that natural energy
shines comes across crystal clear...making their music really and truly
"kick in". This album is chock full of instantly catchy tunes.
Songs like "Musclecar," "Big Muff" (yeah!), "Spork,"
and "Dictionary" will have pop fans crawling through the cracks
to get their hands on a copy. Do we love it? Hell YEAH!!! (Rating: 5+++)
Puddle
of Mudd - Come Clean (CD, Geffen, Rock)
Good hard droning rock music. The humorously titled Puddle of Mudd
have a sound that is anything but muddy. These four guys have a sound that
is based around loud blaring guitars and anthemic style vocals. But the
underlying churning rhythms are what really make this band click. The band's
drummer is a true pulse maker, and the bass player keeps everything driving
along rather nicely. Come Clean features eleven tunes that are chock
full of the kinda energy that drives those high school boys up and over
the fence. We've heard a lot of other bands with this same basic sound,
but still...when it's done well..it still works. Our favorites here are
"Control," "Out of My Head," "She Hates Me,"
and "Basement." (Rating: 3+)
Kevin Salem - Ecstatic (CD, Future
Farmer Recordings, Pop)
Kevin Salem has been writing and recording for a very long time.
His situation is very much Jeff Martin of Idaho. Mr. Salem
is a great writer, performer, and superb guitarist...but for one reason
or another his music always seems to reach only a limited audience (although
Rolling Stone magazine did choose him as "Best New Male Singer"
in 1995---we can see how much good THAT did!). In the cases of both artists,
fame may elude them because they both just look like regular guys...and
because neither one uses cheap gimmicks. We're pleased to see Salem has
found an appropriate home on the eclectic Future Farmer label. His debut
for FF contains the same sort of Americana-based pop we've come to expect.
Actually and in fact, his songwriting has never been stronger. The tunes
on Ecstatic contain cool flowing pop melodies that are supported
by some really killer arrangements (and of course killer guitar playing).
Kevin's vocals sound fantastic, as usual. Will this be the album to boost
this relatively obscure artist into the big time? Probably not, but that's
just one more reason to pick up a copy of this. Chock full of excellent
melodies and sincere intent, this album is certain to please pop music fans...
(Rating: 4+++)
Michael
J. Sheehy - Ill Gotten Gains (British
Import CD, Beggars Banquet,
Soft pop)
A couple of years ago we received a CD by Dream City Film Club. The
disc was oddly subtle in its approach and stuck with us, remaining in our
permanent library. Because we never received anything else by the band,
we were pleased to receive the latest CD from Michael J. Sheehy...the
vocalist for the aforementioned band. Ill Gotten Gains contains tunes
that have the same distant, odd quality that made us like D.C.F.C. The main
differences with Michael's solo album are that the songs are not as heavily
drenched in reverb and the overall feeling is more soft and calm. But what
strikes us most about this album is how strong Mr. Sheehy's vocals are.
This gentleman has a wonderfully smooth vocal style that is neither sweet
nor nasty. Instead, he has a cool, sincere voice that really makes these
tunes glide by like glass slippers on a chocolate cake. The tunes are as
subtle and understated as they are mesmerizing and hypnotic. Top picks:
"Sweet Blue Gene," "Mystery Train" (this one's great),
"Just a Word," and "Let It Be Love This Time." (Rating:
5)
Sarah
Slean - Sarah Slean (CD EP, Atlantic, Pop)
So first let's try to forget that this young lady's music is prominently
featured in the television series Murder In Small Town X. After we
got this fact out of our measly little heads, it became very easy indeed
to enjoy and appreciate the tunes on this wonderfully entertaining EP. While
Sarah Slean had previously released an album and EP, this is the
first thing we have heard from her. Wow. She's great. Not only does she
write all her own material, but she also has a strangely emotional and slightly
quivering vocal style that is haunting and real. Actually...more than any
other artist...Ms. Slean's overall style and sound reminds us very much
of Heidi Berry (one of our all-time favorites). This is particularly
true with the tunes "Twin Moon" and "John the 23rd."
Beautiful and articulate, Sarah Slean is a true BLAST of FRESH AIR... Let's
just hope that her eminent success doesn't diminish her talent... (Rating:
5)
Sparklehorse - It's A Wonderful Life (CD, Capitol,
Soft, obscure pop)
Mark Linkous (the man who is Sparklehorse) doesn't release
albums very often...but when he does, boy oh boy is everyone in for a MAJOR
treat. Sparklehorse fans will LOVE this album. It's a Wonderful Life
contains more of the soft, pensive, and slightly peculiar pop that this
man's fans have come to expect. We feel that this is absolutely the best
album that Mr. Linkous has yet to record. As usual, Mark recorded most everything
himself...but there are guest artists who offer support on most of the tunes...including
Tom Waits (who co-wrote one song), Polly Jean Harvey, and
Nina Persson. As we would have expected (and just as has been the
case in the past) there are no real "hit" songs here because that
is not what this man is striving for. This is audio art, with strange sweeping
arrangements and peculiar lyrics that will leave most listeners in a trail
of confusion. These songs remind us of the softer stuff that Neil Young
recorded very early in his career. All of the tracks on this album are cool
and dreamy, but our own particular favorites are the title track, "Gold
Day," "Eyepennies," "Little Fat Baby," and "Babies
On the Sun" (this guy's song titles are always humorously abstract).
The best Sparklehorse album yet. (Rating: 5+++)
Stinking
Lizaveta - III (CD, Tolotta,
Instrumental/rock)
This is an unusual band for many reasons, not the least of which is the
fact that the drummer is female (but you'd never know it from hearing her
play). Another unique aspect of this band is that the bass player plays
an electric standup bass. Considering these two facts, you would probably
never expect Stinking Lizaveta to be a guitar instrumental band.
Not surprisingly, this band's music sounds very much unlike other guitar
instrumental bands. This trio can certainly turn up and blow out the chunks
with their music...but they are just as likely to play a softer, almost
jazzy style of music that most rock bands wouldn't touch with a ten foot
stick. Stinking Lizaveta tunes have a cool spontaneous quality that is sadly
missing in many rock bands of late. This could be one of the many traits
that has helped them to garner a sizable underground following. Lots of
wonderfully entertaining tunes here like "War of the Worlds,"
"Tenuous," "The Hanged Man," and "Eastern Sun"
make this disc a truly enjoyable listen... (Rating: 4+++)
Sugarcult - Start Static (CD, Ultimatum
Music, Rock/pop)
Hard punchy bubblegummy pop music played by four guys who obviously have
energy to spare as well as a knowledge of the medium. Sugarcult is
a band with a super happy and super charged up sound. Start Static
features nice thick production and really super vocals. The band's tunes
are based around big fat thick fuzzy guitars, but the vocals are way out
front. In a way, the sound here reminds us of Thin Lizard Dawn (a
fantastic pop band that never did receive the recognition they deserve).
From the driving frantic pace of "You're the One" right on through
to the somewhat moody "I Changed My Life" these four guys demonstrate
that they not only have a solid grasp of what they're doing...but they also
know how to write great tunes. The album features a twelfth acoustic track
that is not listed on the cover. This Santa Barbara band is doing all the
right things in all the right ways. This is just the sort of thing we LOVE.
A really good RUSH. (Rating: 5)
The
Suicide Machines - Steal This Album
(CD, Hollywood, Rock)
If you think bands get more boring over time, then you have obviously not
been following the career of Detroit's The Suicide Machines. These
guys started off loud and crazy, but now they're about twenty times MORE
intense. The humorously titled Steal This Album features absolutely
cool kiddie cover art which completely deceives potential buyers. This music
is definitely NOT lightweight pop (!). These guys play in-your-face hard
rock like you probably haven't heard in ages. And they do it RIGHT. The
playing is on target, the tunes are smart and melodic, and the recording
quality will blow your BALLS off. Fourteen dynamite kickass tunes including
"The Killing Blow," "Honor Among Thieves," "Middle
Way," and "Leap of Faith." These guys prove that rock music
isn't dead. But it does bring to light the fact that there are lots of bands
who just don't know how to play the game and have fun. A superb hard rock
treat. (Rating: 5)
The
Texas Governor - The Texas Governor
(CD, Archenemy, Pop/rock)
With a press release like the one that accompanied this, the debut CD from
The Texas Governor...how could anyone resist writing a review? After
a lengthy stint as singer of the notorious and fabulous underground cult
band The Elevator Drops, Goolkasian (that's the only name
he goes by) eventually decided to call it quits and go solo. This album
is actually very much in the same vein as The Drops music, except the overall
sound is more lo-fi and basic. These tunes were recorded in Goolkasian's
new home studio, and from the sounds we're hearing it seems as if this man
is enjoying what he's doing. The tunes here range from simple pop to rock
with slightly psychedelic hazy overtones. Overall, this is much less aggressive
than the E. Drops...but we're guessing that is exactly what this gentleman
was aiming for. Top picks: "Tennessee (Million Miles Away)," "Faith,
Hope, Love, and Jesus," and "No Mention Of My Dreams." (Rating:
4)
The
Toilet Boys - The Toilet Boys(CD, Master
Plan Entertainment, Rock)
The Toilet Boys play a style of raunchy rock music that harkens back
to the glory days of rock and roll in the 1970s when men dressed like women
and the truly great bands had attitude and image to spare. These guys play
buzzsaw guitar rock with plenty of hooks...and their lead singers is one
of the prettiest we've seen of late (most people will probably mistake this
man for a woman, as he looks very much like a white version of Ru Paul).
Even though the band may play with gender bending in their appearance, the
music is completely macho beefcake all the way to Tuscaloosa. The band hails
from New York, and they have the potential to (hopefully) ignite a new wave
of trashy stuff similar to what came from The Big Apple decades ago (like
The New York Dolls, Wayne County, and Blondie). There
are lots of potential hits here. "Party Stops Now," "Can't
Wait," and "Runaway" would all make great singles. Interestingly,
the band opted to release this CD through their own newly formed company
rather than sign their lives away to someone else. These guys have created
a real underground buzz which might just land them in the center spotlight
on the sheer strength of their songs, image, and ambition... Total fun.
(Rating: 4+++)
Dwight
Twilley - The Luck (CD, Big Oak Recording
Group, Pop/rock)
Most folks will remember Dwight Twilley for his 1975 hit "I'm
On Fire" and/or his 1984 hit "Girls." But what most folks
don't realize is that Twilley has continued to release albums. The Luck
is the first disc we've heard from Oklahoma's Big Oak Recording Group. This
is a slick batch of tunes, almost all of which deserve to be hits. This
album finds Mr. Twilley in fine form, providing more of his crunchy guitar-based
pop. The tunes are infectious and catchy...and the vocals are nothing short
of wonderful. Dwight has been a favorite among power pop fanatics for years
now...and this CD will certainly satisfy his fans as well as earn him some
new listeners. Most artists turn stale after a decade or two. This is not
the case with this gentleman. His songs and particularly his performances
on this disc sound as fresh as someone who just discovered that they can
write songs. All of these tunes are treats, but our initial favorites are
"Holdin' On," "No Place Like Home," "Reach for
the Sky," and "Leave Me Alone." A solid album from one of
pop's brightest spirits. (Rating: 5)
Bill Wolford's Head - Exposure To Living (CD, Go-Kustom,
Eclectic pop/rock/folk)
Hard to describe or pinpoint. The first tune ("Exposure To Living")
had us thinking that Bill Wolford was very much like another Daniel
Johnston. But by the time the second tune ("Somewhere To Play")
rolled by, we began to think his sound was more similar to John Lennon.
A few songs later we gave up trying to come up with comparisons and just
started enjoying this odd fellow's unpredictable style. Every time you think
you have Mr. Wolford figured out, he comes from another direction completely.
Amazingly, the album holds together well despite the slightly schizophrenic
differences of the tunes. Other offbeat ditties that we dig: "Big Trucks,"
"Sweet As Honey," "The Sun Is Blue." Wait, wait, wait!!!
We just came up with a good comparison for this guy. His approach reminds
us very much of one of our favorite new artists of the past couple of years...Ivan
Klipstein (!). (Rating: 4+)
Woo
Hoo Bank - Volume 1 (CD, Yawn, Various artists pop compilation)
Like a non-stop string of hits you've never heard before, Woo Hoo Bank:
Volume 1 is a consistently entertaining collection of tracks by obscure
bands almost all of which are worthy of more attention than they're currently
receiving. It could just be our slanted perspective, but it seems as if
there has been an increasing musical presence in the state of Oklahoma over
the past five years or so...? Despite all the negative aspects of the technological
revolution, one of the few positives is that folks in areas other than the
"big cities" can now compete more effectively in the big scheme
of things. This disc starts off with The Merrymakers' "Saltwater
Drinks"...a song that SHOULD have been a major hit in the United States...but
since the airwaves in this goddamn stinking country are filled with phony
dreck, songs with any real substance don't have a chance nowadays. Other
favorites are Scott Peace's "Picture This", Hosty Trio's
"Silent Me", Epperley's "Don't Stay Home, Los Angeles",
and Antenna Lodge's "Nightmares in Pantyhose" (this last
one's weird). A varied collection of tunes as well as an introduction to
a whole slew of artists you've probably never heard before... (Rating: 4++)
David
Z - David Z's Beatbank: Ready, Set, Go
(CD, District Z, Pop)
A while back we reviewed an obscure little gem entitled Surf 60 by
a then unknown recording artist named David Z. Since that time, David
has apparently been keeping very busy. Strangely surprising is the fact
that his music is now appearing in--of all things---SOAP OPERAS. (The
Young and the Restless and One Life To Live to be specific...)
In some ways this seems really, really odd to us...but in another way, it
isn't that shocking. In addition, David's tunes have become rather popular
on the MP3 download circuit. Ready, Set, Go was produced by Anthony
J. Resta who has worked with many big name artists. The music on this
disc...like the music on Surf 60...is playful techno pop. The main
difference this time around is that many of the tunes feature guest vocalists.
The tracks with the vocals certainly have the most commercial appeal...but
our top picks here are the instrumentals. In particular, "Tori"
and "Repetition" are amazing tunes...sounding quite similar in
overall tone to some of Sparks later recordings. David Z is a man
who uses very simple ideas...and creates tunes that are so catchy you won't
be able to get them out of your head. That seems to be the trademark of
some of the legends out there...so we would expect even bigger and better
things from this man in the very near future... (Rating: 4+++)
Hector Zazou & Sandy
Dillon - 12 (Las Vegas is Cursed) (CD, FWD / Crammed
Discs, Experimental)
While lots of bands and artists claim to sound original...very few do. Here's
an exception to the rule. Producer Hector Zazou's approach to music
reminds us very much of Bill Laswell. While each fellow's music is
very different from the other...they both made a name for themselves (and
a great deal of money) by producing others. Like B. Laswell, Mr. Zazou creates
music purely for the love of creating it...without giving a goddamn doughnut
hole if it has any commercial potential. Believe us, the oddly titled 12
(Las Vegas is Cursed) has virtually no commercial potential whatsoever.
There is little to grab onto in these compositions in the way of repetitive
choruses or catchy melodies...or recognizable song structures...or anything...
Interestingly, this collection of music was recorded by using the phone
line and postal service. There are some big (and we mean B-I-G) name guest
artists who appear on this disc, but their involvement must have been mainly
a labor of love or simply because they wanted to be involved in this wildly
adventurous project. We find it very encouraging and uplifting to hear folks
who are successful working on and recording stuff that is this far out.
It almost gives one hope for the future. Almost. Sandy Dillon is
referred to as the vocalist, but she does a lot more with her voice than
most vocalists. So perhaps she is a vocalist...PLUS. We can't really think
of anyone that compares with this. No matter how wild and trippy this is
(and believe us, it is...IT IS...) we cannot recommend this for everyone.
Most folks simply do not get into experimental music. That is a fact. A
sad fact, but a fact nonetheless... Try on "Channel 12" or "God
Believes in Showbiz"... We'd like to hear these folks pair up with
Bruce Anderson for some recording. Now that WOULD be weird
(?!!?)... (Rating: 5+++)
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