APRIL 2012
ARCHER BLACK- FORGIVENESS IS A WEAPON- POST PLANETARY- Former Autumns guy Dustin Morgan returns with an odd collection of , well, I guess you could call it orchestral pop since there’s like 100 musicians on the record but it’s weird, arty and moody. I didn’t hear one song on here that I wanted to hear a 2nd time. www.postplanetary.com
BUILDINGS- MELT CRY SLEEP- DOUBLEPLUSGOOD- Mpls trio who roar out of the gate on the opening song, “Rainboat” and pretty much don’t take a breath until the end. The songs reminded me a bit of another Twin Cities band named Husker Du though their songs on this aren’t as melodic. Other times it reminded me of The Unsane at their most jarring. Bring the earplugs. www.doubleplusgoodrecords.com
CANYONS -KEEP YOUR DREAMS- MODULAR- Sydney, Australia duo who might fall under the synth-pop umbrella but that’s a mighty big umbrella as elements of psych, prog, Krautrock, electronic and the like pop up more often than not. Not my bag but acid gobblers will eat this stuff up. www.modularpeople.com
THE COPPER GAMINS- S/T- SELF RELEASED- 2 dudes, 5 songs, a huge White Stripes influences and all of the writing on the cd , except for the song titles, is in Spanish. Real raw and primitive. They cover a Mississippi John Hurt song and do a traditional “Old Lady Sittin’ in the Dining Room.” Did I say this was RAW? www.saustexmedia.com
ANI DIFRANCO- WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON? – RIGHTEOUS BABE- Record #16 from Ms. DiFranco and first one in three years. Same old Ani. www.righteousbabe.com
ELIKA- ALWAYS THE LIGHT- SAINT MARIE- Elektra pop duo form, where else , BKNY. M83 comparisons are fairly accurate though Elika’s songs aren’t as good. They have the sound down now let’s work on the tunes. www.saintmarierecords.com
LUX- WE ARE NOT THE SAME- SELF RELEASED- Seattle duo of David and Leah and judging by the cover I thought it was gonna be a goth mess that I was going to hate. Surprise though, this is nice fuzzed-out , melodic pop . I hear a definite Jesus and Mary Chain influence (they also cite Sonic Youth, New Order and others) and they do a Black Tambourine cover! Surprise!
MARK MANDEVILLE & THE OLD CONSTITUTION- S/T- NOBODY’S FAVORITE- New England guy Mark is joined here by pal Rianne Richards as well as a cast of players (aka- The Old Constitution) including dobro, pedal steel, piano etc. The sound is a real home spun country record with terrific songs. www.nobodysfavoriterecords.com
MANOOGHI HI- SILENCE- MOWLAWNER- Eclectic Pac NW band who were described as more than a few reviews as “prog rock meets indian rhythms. I’ll pass. www.manooghihi.com
NIGHT GENES- LIKE THE BLOOD – SELF RELEASED- Idahoian Eric Ingersol apparently traveled the world to record this latest record. The songs are downbeat and low key and his vocals out Nick Cave even the man himself. It’s not bad but not really my bag. www.nightgenes.com
ONE FINGER RIOT- COME DRAG ME DOWN- POST PLANETARY- No, not a punk ban but just the opposite . Moody, oddball pop done by one man, Faris McReynolds. It has some electronics and synth work and at times reminded me of Starflyer 59. Meh. www.onefingerriot.com
OY VEY- RECESSION GIRLS- SELF RELEASED- Sophomore effort by two New Hampshire dudes who came out of the womb together (or damn close to it) and create a dark , brooding homage to the 80’s with glittery electro pop. It could be a soundtrack to a movie that you wish had a better soundtrack. www.ovveyband.com
ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS- THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL- FIRE- This was released on the Smog Veil record several years back and no it gets its own reissue. This pre-Pere Ubu band cut its teeth in Cleveland back in the 70’s and on here they cover The Stooges, Stones, Velvets and probably a few other. Good n’ grimy and well-worth hearing. www.firerecords.com
SAD LITTLE MEN- I’LL BE THE OCTOPUS- SELF RELEASED- Heavy percussion from this Portland (who I’d never heard of) who reminded me at times of Claps Your Hands Say Yeah. The oddball rhythms and flat vocals just didn’t do it for me. www.sadlittlemen.com
SILVERHAWK- THE FOREST FOR THEE TREES- SELF RELEASED- Folky/country stuff that any fan of Grams Cosmic Americana could certainly appreciate. It’s not all cosmic though as a few tunes they crank up the fuzz, but good (“So Complex”, etc). www.myspace.com/silverhawkband
ABBY TRAVIS- IV- EDUCATIONAL RECORDINGS- Hollywood native who was once in the Lovedolls and has seemingly played with everyone. She has 3 previous records that I never heard but this one, the one she calls her “glam” record has some nice classic rock nods as well. No song titles listed on my advance copy but tune 3 sure was nice. www.abbytravis.com
WATER LIARS- PHANTOM LIMB- MISRA- These 10 songs recorded by St. Louie native Justin Kinkel-Schuster’s were done in 3 days. It sounds like Neil Young on both the heavier stuff as well as the more low-key acoustic material. He pours his heart and soul into these tunesand thye deserve your attention (as well as your hard-earned dough). www.waterliarsmusic.com
MARCH 2012
THE 2 BEARS- BE STRONG- DFA- Dance music by one guy for, Hot Chip (Joe Goddard) and his pal (Raf Rundell) and they dig deep through a few decades of dance music, rap, dub, electronic, pop, etc. for a truly unique stew. My pick to click os “Bear Hug” but this whole thing is solid. www.dfarecords.com
BHI BHIMAN- BHIMAN- BOOCOO MUSIC- The son of Sri Lankan immigrants, reared in St. Louis and weaned on Seattle grunge music. Bhiman thankfully didn’t go that generic route and instead followed his own muse into a sort of hybrid Dylan territory with folk leanings and a unique voice. Interesting. www.bhibhiman.com
BLACK GIRLS- HELL DRAGON- WORTHLESS JUNK RECORDS- Richmond, VA bunch who instead of grinding you down the some punk rawk instead go for a more polished soul/pop sound but have the tunes to back it up. The record covers are a bit tweaked too, just the way I like it. www.worthless-junk.com
CARSIE BLANTON- IDIOT HEART- SELF RELEASED- This sassy Philly-based gal (who’s lived all over the country, apparently leaving home at 16 for the west coast) has a bit of Caitlin Rose’s sweet voice inside her and like Ms. Roses she has the tunes and confidence to keep movin’ forward. Well done, my dear. www.carsieblanton.com
DROWNER- S/T- SAINT MARIE- You normally don’t think of Houston as being a hotbed for atmospheric/shoegaze stuff but that is where this band hails from. Leader Darren Emanuel’s guitars speak many languages while vocalist Anna Bouchard drifts into Liz Fraser territory. Dreamy. www.saintmarierecords.com
FIRE IN THE HOLE- (SARA ISAKSSON & REBECKA TURNQVIST)- SING STEELY DAN- ZIP- Two Swedish gals tackle a few songs from the Steely Dan catalog (ok, they do 12). It’s basically their voices and a few different pianos so it give the songs a bit of a haunting feel. I dig their versions of “Do It Again” and “Gaucho.” www.ziprecords.com
DOUG GILLARD- SALAMANDER- PINK FROST/BIG TAKEOVER- I think I reviewed this one a few years back as well (see Occasional Flickers below) this is former Death of Samantha/GBV dude Doug showing his songwriting side with 14 well-crafted pop tunes with a range of emotions. Dig in and make sure you have the proper cutlery. www.bigtakeover.com
JENNY GILLESPIE- BELITA- NAROOMA- Gentle, enchanting folk in the Maria Taylor vein. At times her voice gets a bit too coffeehouse for me but she’s got talent. 5 songs. www.jennygillespie.com
HEY ENEMY- THE WRONG SONGS TO RIGHT WRONGS- PREDESTINATION- A flaming drum kit on the cover and a band named Hey Enemy can only mean one thing…metal! OK, so this UK bunch aren’t exactly metal, it’s more like noisy, punk/metal/blues and while not my thing, they do have a song called “Uncle Shingles” so that was cool. www.heyenemy.com
JONQUIL- POINT OF GO- DOVECOTE- The UK’s version of Vampire Weekend. They claim influenced from both Earth, Wind & Fire AND The Smiths and that is a-ok with me. www.dovecoterecords.com
THE LIFE- ALONE- GREEN MONKEY- Long forgotten Seattle band that was named “Best new NW band in 1987” but I have to admit that during that year they were not on my radar. This is a 2-cd set that features their long lost debut as well as a 17-song second disc that was gonna be their 2nd record. Basically hard rock with some moody overtones and solid songwriting. www.greenmonkeyrecords.com
THE OCCASIONAL FLICKERS- SCATTERED SONGS BY…- PLASTILINA- I think I may have reviewed this one about a year or so ago, not sure but hey, it’s on the Plastilina label which is a mark of quality. I think the band is one guy from Greece making some pleasant, light-hearted pop music. The guy knows a sticky melody and what to do with it, too . www.plastilinarecords.com
RALFE BAND- BUNNY AND THE BULL (ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK)- GHOST SHIP- This is nice….a soundtrack to a movie I have never seen (apparently directed by Paul King of the Mighty Boosh fame). It’s real laid back with lots of piano but also strings an horns, almost sounds like it could have been done by Calexico. I need to rent the movie now. www.bunnyandthebull.com
KAYLN ROCK- PASSENGER- SELF RELEASED- Talented singer/songwriter from NY who doesn’t forget the importance of the song. What I mean is that she doesn’t drone on and on like a lot of folk singers do. Plenty of variation to go along with the talent and some strong arrangements, too. www.kaylnrock.com
SICK FRIEND- THE DRAFT DODGER- BIRD AND FLAG- Wasn’t sure what to expect out of this duo with the random name but these two know how to write a good pop tune. One sings and plays guitar while the other plays synth and drums and I like it more than the black keys, so there. www.birdandflag.ca
Kidd Oblivion reviews, March 2012
KEVIN ABERNATHY – SCRAP METAL BLUES – SELF – Busch-league blues-rock from three old white guys. A ‘Flying V’ covered in tinfoil? Really? Not even trying…
ASTRONAUTALIS – THIS IS OUR SCIENCE – FAKE FOUR – An unsettling mix of slick pop and strip-club backing tracks with white-boy from Florida “rapping” over it. I think you know what I think of this.
ALERT NEW LONDON – YOUTH – SELF – It took 5 people 15 months in 6 studios and (literally) 39 effects pedals to make this record, which James Baluyut could’ve crapped out by himself, drunk, over one weekend - as a joke.
ABBIE BARRETT – THE TRIPLES VOL. 1 – SELF – Three completely unremarkable ‘female singer-songwriter’ tracks that drag on long enough to make it feel like a full-length disc. Behold, the artist!
BIG TREE – THIS NEW YEAR – SELF – Try to imagine Edie Brickell & the New Bohemians playing outtakes from Sting’s “Dream of Blue Turtles” album, but trying to make you believe it sounds like Fleet Foxes.
BUILT LIKE ALASKA – IN TROUBLED TIMES – FUTURE FARMER – Clean, toothless indie-pop that grew up on Earlimart and Death Cab and is tailor-made for hip TV show end-credits.
CHRISTINE COCHRAN – SOMEONE I’LL NEVER MEET – SELF – Absolutely dreadful, fake, affected female pop that is straight outta 1994, complete with embarrassingly bad lyrics that range from Buddhists to plastic surgeons, tattoos, TV shows and ‘when her lease is up.’ Seriously, who fucking cares? Insulting.
DUCHESS SAYS – IN A FUNG T – ALIEN – A French-Canadian incarnation of the Kills, Death Set and Land of Talk squeezed through the Six Finger Satellite filter with an affinity for the B-52’s as well as babes in Toyland. Fucking rips! Congrats on making the first decent record of this issue!
EAST BAY RAY – THE KILLER SMILES – MVD AUDIO – I can not slag East Bay Ray because the Dead Kennedys were definitely important to me growing up, and his guitar playing is totally influential to tons of punk bands. So, I’ll just say this: I was hoping for more.
EX NORWEGIAN – SKETCH – DYING VAN GOGH – 4 words: Hot Chick Bass Player. Note for the next record: Bongos have no place in indie-rock. That is all.
GLOSSARY – LONG LIVE ALL OF US – LAST CHANCE – 1988 Elvis Costello covering 1986 John Mellencamp. Your call.
GOOD INTENTIONS – SOMEONE ELSE’S TIME – BORONDA – Americana/country from Liverpool England. Buy this for your boss or any one of your middle-aged friends – they’ll love it.
GRAND ATLANTIC – CONSTELLATIONS – SELF – Anthemic, Australian indie-rock recorded in an abandoned insane asylum that sounds like Nada Surf meets the Screaming Trees! I like it despite the fact that they sold a song to “Gossip Girl.”
JOHN WESLEY HARDING – THE SOUND OF HIS OWN VOICE – YEP ROC - DAD MUSIC.
IRIE TIME – IN ANOTHER TIME – INHERENT – Hey everybody! C’mon and say it with me! IT’S IRIE TIME, MON! Woohoo!!!
JUPE JUPE – REDUCTION IN DRAG – SELF – 40 year-olds trying to make music for “the kids” that ends up sounding like a limp, hollow husk of Depeche Mode.
KENSINGTON – BORDERS – ZIP – A Dutch version of Interpol, if Interpol could actually sing.
LADYBIRDS – SHIMMY SHIMMY DANG – DEPARTURE – Nice dose of rock-a-billy skronk here akin to the Detroit Cobras, Knitters, Holly Golightly, Denise James and Cave Catt Sammy. Just enough clean, and just enough grit.
MILK CARTON KIDS – PROLOGUE – SELF – Roots-y acoustic duo that are basically fay, male impersonators of Gillian Welch. They found the need to list the models and years of their acoustic guitars in the liner notes, as well as who “cares for them.” Subsequently, I had to hate them.
MOMMYHEADS – DELICATE FRICTION – DROMEDARY – For the record, I didn’t like their corny, ELO/Queen pop back in the 90’s and I still don’t. Isn’t it bad enough that we must continue to endure the likes of They Might Be Giants and Of Montreal? Enough already.
PALADINO – S/T – SELF – Straight-up Americana that’s every bit as good as John Doe’s last offering and way better than the last Eddie Spaghetti’s last record for sure. Plus, they have a cute chick playing upright bass, so there you go. I’m sold.
JESSE PAYNE – BUFFALO – CAPTURE – Exceedingly listenable combo of Americana and subtle indie-pop. There’s a little twang, a little ‘high lonesome,’ and a distinct but pleasing singing voice all of which are recorded impeccably. I like this a whole lot more than Bonnie Prince Billy. Very nice.
PEOPLE GET READY – S/T – QUITE SCIENTIFIC – David Byrne told me to like this so I do.
SHIRK CIRCUS – THIS BAND WILL DESTROY YOUR LIFE – DROMEDARY – Ah, the pride of Nutley, NJ… Years ago I was in a band with a complete fucking asshole guitar player and we played a show with these guys. There’s even a picture from that gig in the insleeve to this thing! Hahaha. Well anyway, back in the day we would call this “alternative” or “college rock,” though I don’t know what you’d call it now. I DO know that they recorded the basic tracks in 1996, the vocals in 2007 and it’s been released in 2011, so what does that tell you about this record? Also keep in mind that they opened for my shitty band, so that doesn’t bode well either.
SMALL SUR – TONES – SELF – Hushed indie-pop that is lush and gorgeous hailing from my home-town of Baltimore, MD. This fine group is very reminiscent of a Low and Red House Painters mash-up – in the best possible way. Guest turns by the Wye Oak folks and a warm, crystalline recording quality make for a lovely listen. Well done, home-ys.
JESSE SPARKS – EP – LUCK MEDIA – Ooh, a grammy nominee! Oh boy. To be blunt, this is a breathy, unremarkable, pseudo-sexy, adult-contempo lounge act with a bass player named Warlock and a singer who is “sponsored” by a cosmetics company. Seriously, get the fuck out of this magazine.
STRATOCRUISER – SPARK – ZIP – Here are some dead-giveaways that a record is gonna be awful: 1. Absolute afterthought, disc-makers cover art (honestly, made zero effort). 2. Bald drummer with a goat-tee and two bass drums (someone’s compensating). 3. Song titles like “adult situations,” “pray love remember,” and “best actress.” 4. The press kit states that the band is popular in “major markets” like the Jersey Shore. 5. The band name is Stratocruiser. You’re welcome.
TOTAL BABES – SWIMMING THROUGH SUNLIGHT – OLD FLAME – Punchy, blown-out pop-punk that’s on par with Harlem, nearly lives up to the Ergs and wipes the floor with Wavves. Great band name too, bravo.
VICTORY AND ASSOCIATES – THESE THINGS ARE FACTS – SEISMIC WAVE – These guys love “anthemic” punk rock as much as they love Kickstarter! They wrote 11 “anthems” on this record! And one of the “anthems” is for Occupy Wall Street! The main theme of their “anthems” is to “get tough, and get through it!” Thanks for all of those “anthems” V&A! What would I have done without you guys?
WHISKEY SAINTS – 24 HOURS – UNEMPLOYED – Los Angeles’ answer to the Bottle Rockets with lyrics written by a 14 year old. (I’m guessing.)
REBECCA ZAPAN – NEST – SELF – Super cutesy, ukulele-driven hipster-mom-folk. (Yet again, I invent a genre and will get no credit for it.) Anyway, Rebecca is a sweetheart and a lot of the record is quite pleasant, but it also makes me feel a little puke-y. You know what I mean? A little too sweet and cutesy.
ZOLA JESUS – CONATUS – SACRED BONES – Electronic, teenage-girl goth music that would be perfect for a Prom full of sad girls with horn-rimmed glasses and retainers who all got stood up by their dates.
JANUARY 2012
13 GHOSTS- GARLAND OF BOTTLE FLIES- SKYBUCKET- Moody, Birmingham, AL band who you can’t really call “alt country” (even if you want to). Some of the song leave me limp but others bring it home like the epic “I Have Brought Fire” and the schizoid “Wicked Drink.” I want to dig their entire records but never do but….they still intrigue me. www.skybucket.com
THE STEVE ADAMYK BAND- FOREVER WON’T WAIT- DIRTNAP- The name might conjure up images of a bad blues band but nope, this is typical Dirtnap fare which = good! Catchy, zippy songs with plenty of hooks and some cajones, too. www.dirtnaprecs.com
BENEATH WIND AND WAVES NON-ETRE- SELF RELEASED- Folk pop with beats and an ethereal quality to it. It’s the work of Shawn Lawson Freeman and at times reminded me of both Elliott Smith and Sparklehorse though not as good as either. But not bad. www.shawnlawsonfreeman.com
BING SELFISH- SELFISH WORKS- MESSTHETICS/HYPED2DEATH- This is 1982 release (originally a split between the El Frenzy and Noise Method labels) that Chuck from H2D found 125 original vinyl copies of (with “numbered, new jackets”). The music is unique and unpredictable with flourishes of horns. Oh sure, there’s guitars, bass and drums too, but those almost seem like an afterthought. You won’t hear much like it this year or any year, really. www.hyped2death.com
THE BRANDT BRAUER FRICK ENSEMBLE- MR MACHINE- KT- Minimal soundscapes from a German trio known for minimal soundscapes. They’re talented, they’re unique but not my thing. www.k7.com
BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE THE SINGLES COLLECTION 1992-2011 – A RECORDS- 22 song spread out over 2 discs by this , well, I guess you could call ‘em an institution (in more ways than one). The band is Anton Newcombe’s vision and h d no idea they’d been around for 20 years! The guy always amazes me with all of the amazing songs he’s written, many of them on here. No, really (start with opener “She Made Me” and keep on going). www.brianjonestownmassacre.com
BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS- S/T- AQUI ESTAMOS- Nice bouncy pop gunk with a hint of rootsiness to it. From Raleigh, NC. 4 songs. www.aquiestamosrecords.com
COLOR RADIO- ARCHITECTS- MAPLESS- Swirly pop with an experimental edge to it. In the Blonde Redhead vein. www.myspace.com/colorradio
DEATHTRAP AMERICA- S/T- SELF RELEASED- He has a Mohawk and a slim goatee while she dresses in black and has lots of tattoos but surprisingly the music the two create is pretty normal gritty rock. www.myspace.com/deathtrapamerica
ROBERT DEEBLE- HEART LIKE FEATHERS- SELF RELEASED- Seattle-ite who recorded here in Portland at Type Foundry (w/ Adam Seltzer and Dylan Magierik) with a host of musicians. They’re essentially folk songs with evocative acoustic guitars, shuffling drums, meowing cello and Deeble’s expressive vocals. Gorgeous. www.robertdeeble.com
JON DEROSA, ANCHORED ep- SILBER- I read a review where the reviewer compared DeRosa (of the band Aarktica) to UK tunesmith Richard Hawley (one of my faves) and he was spot on with that comparison (though hailing from 2 very different places). Then I noticed on this ep that DeRosa covers The Chills (another all-time fave) here, doing justice to “Submarine Bells.” Beautiful. www.silbermedia.com
DARE DUKES- THUGS & CHINA DOLLS- STARLAND- Savannah, GA traveler who definitely has a Sufjan Stevens flavor to him (plenty o’ banjo) though I’m not into Duke’s vocals (too squeaky). Still though, the subject matter is interesting and the song swill take you places throughout the deep south. www.daredukes.com
GRAND & NOBLE- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Punchy duo (though they add drums and lead guitars on about half the tracks) as Jon Elling sings and strums while Scott Stukel adds piano, bass, keys and strings and they can shift from plaintive one moment to gunning it the next. The songs are good and these two may be goin’ places. www.grandandnoble.net
GROSS MAGIC- TEEN JAMZ- FAT POSSUM- Horrible cover art, surprised it’s on the F.P. label, honestly. Anywho, this is the work of one dude, Sam Somethingorother form Brighton, England who has a bit of a Marc Bolan fixation…and maybe an Ariel Pink one , too. The songs are catchy as all get out but are they good? Umm…lemme get back to you. But they ARE catchy. www.fatpossum.com
MARK HOLLAND (JENNYANYKIND) ROUGH CUTS- MACKPAD- This is Mark from Jennyanykind (also Jule Brown) offering up 11 laid-back pop cuts with jangly guitars and relaxed rhythms (Dean Wareham helps out a bit here). Mark plays nearly everything on here and the songwriting isn’t rough at all but top notch. www.myspace.com/mrkholland
HONEY HONEY- BILLY JACK- HONEY HONEY/LOST HIGHWAY- Nope, not form the wilds of West Virginia or Tennesseee but from good old L.A. The duo of Suzanne and Ben create some nice down home tunes with her honey-voiced pipes and his well-worked banjo. It has a real old world feel and it totally works. www.losthighway.com
HUMAN SWITCHBOARD- WHO’S LANDING IN MY HANGAR ANTHOLOGY 1977-1984- BAR-NONE- Unique Ohio band who a pal gave me a vinyl copy of years ago and they deservedly, finally get a reissue treatment. You’ll hear elements of bands like the Velvets, Joy Division, Pere Ubu (David Thomas produced some of their stuff) Talking Heads, Burma, Pylon etc. with their oddball rhythmic stew that has more pop hooks than you’d think. Essential. www.bar-none.com
THE HORRIBLE CROWES- ELSIE- SIDE ONE DUMMY- Not nearly as good as the Gaslight Anthen. www.sideonedummy.com
ICARUS HIMSELF – CAREER CULTURE- SCIENCE OF SOUND- New band from, National Beekeeper Society’s Nick Whetro. I’m not always sure what the guy’s on about but he has seriously love for Bowie and quite frankly. Doesn’t give shit what you think of him. And, come to think of it, neither do I. G’night.
THE KING KHAN EXPERIENCE- SCION A/V PRESENTS- SCION AUDIO VISUAL- Not sure if this is a real release or what (I found a bunch of freebees of it) but it is the same Khan from BBQ and the Shrines. This 9-song collection lacks the caveman wildness of those previously mentioned outfits. It was free so I:m not gonna bitch too much and live they probably(hopefully) still deliver but this just seems really….normal. www.scionav.com
KNOCK ‘EM ALIVE- THE ADVENTURES OF JOHNNY GRAVITY- STOOP DREAM- This is the work of one guy, John Q. Gruber and he has a few other records out (that he has been nice enough to send me). This is a 3-song cd with a bonus track. Opening cut “You Still Listen to Disco” has a radio announcer intro then bursts into nice 70’ss pop while the other 3 cuts are all unique in their own right (and hooky!). Nice. knockemalive@gmail.com
JENS LEKMAN- AN ARGUMENT WITH MYSELF ep- SECRETLY CANADIAN- Jens is the consummate entertainer (especially in a live setting) and while this 5-song ep isn’t his best work this is completey worth it for the rollercoaster title track (“New Directions” is darn good, too). www.secretlycanadian.com
LONEY DEAR- HALL MUSIC- POLYVINYL- A more stripped down, moodier affair on the 5th record by Swede Emil Svarnagen. Personally I like the grander music (especially on LONEY, NOIR and DEAR JOHN). When I reach for one of his records, it will be one of those. www.polyvinylrecords.com
LOS LOBOS- TIN CAN TRUST- SHOUT FACTORY- Absolutely horrible. www.shoutfactory.com
THE LOWER 48- WHERE ALL MAPS END- SELF RELEASED- Wow, this Portland via Mpls trio (2 dudes and a girl) really impress on this, their debut full length. Strummy acoustic guitar with strong vocal harmonies really impress and the songwriting is straight from the heart. “Into the Woods’ and “Interlude I” are my two faves but not a bad song on here. www.thelower48.com
THE MAMA’S AND THE PAPA’S- IF YOU CAN BELIEVE YOUR EYE AND EARS- SUNDAZED- Not sure how long this has been out of print but once again the mighty Sundazed brings it again. Classic reissue in a nice fold out digipak and liner notes form David Fricke (though I don’t, believe any extra songs). www.sundazed.com
ROY MOLLER- PLAYING SONGS NO ONE’S LISTENING TO- THE BEAUTFUL MUSIC- Scottish guy on a Canadian label playing music that is uniquely American! Moller apparently grew up in Edinburgh but these 10 songs waver between 60’s garage pop and more Americana influenced gunk. The songwriting is strong and boy do I love that old-school organ. www.thebeautofulmusic.com
MARCO PANELLA- IN THE AGE OF BATTERIES- AUGER DOWN- Off-kilter pop from a unique lyricist but his vocals are…well, not very good. The whole things seems bit off but he probably wants it that way. Wait, what was I talking about again?
EDWARD ROGERS- PORCELAIN- ZIP- I have always liked British expat Edwards work in the Bedshit Poets. I have always wanted to like his solo material just as much but always come up short. PORCELAIN is a pleasant collection of 11 songs some spare and sad (“Nothing Too Clever” while he has some fun with the others (“Love with the World”). Solid, but not stupendous. www.ziprecords.com
ROLLO TIME- VICTIMS OF THE CROWN- SELF RELEASED- Sophomore effort by this Chicago (Downer’s Grove, actually) band led by the talents of Jon Raleigh who never met a Beatles song he didn’t like. The songs/tempos vary but most are mid-tempo and hooky with nods to the Fab Four as well as others more recent stuff (I hear some Pulp in there, I swear). “Sick and Tired” is my fave here but there’s plenty to like, really. www.rollotime.com
SAVAGING SPIRES- S/T- CRITICAL HEIGHTS- Hmm…..here is an interesting little record. Not sure what to make of it, exactly. I hear droney guitars, far away voices, loops, cello, acoustic guitars and the like. Apparently an air of mystery surrounds the band and no one knows who they are. Hmm…. www.criticalheights.com
SKYTONE- SHINING OVER YOU- THE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC- These 10 songs from this Canadian (Ottawa) band are all over the pop map. The band isn’t afraid to add different elements into the tunes. The record opens with the straight rock/pop “We Are One” while “Rat Race” adds some Northern Soul and “Never No Never” adds some hints of reggae. Not bad but not my fave TBM release. www.thebeautfulmusic.com
SOLEY- WE SINK- MORR MUSIC- Delicate electronic pop from this Swedish gal (full name: Soley Stefansdottir) who is a member of Seabear and Sin Fang (don’t worry, I haven’t heard of them either). The vocals are certainly unique, sorta like a Swedish Lisa Germano with higher pitched piercing while the musical backdrop is a mix of electronic and acoustic. Compelling to say the least. www.morrmusic.com
DEVON SPROULE- I LOVE YOU, GO EASY- TIN ANGEL- Coffee house piano folk pop that seems a bit too weird for the normies to like but not odd enough for the freaks to dig so that leaves this Canadian female off and able to follow her own muse. Which she does. She has a lovely voice. www.tinangelrecords.co.uk
THE SYLLABLE SECTION- IMPROVISATIONALS ep- SELF RELEASED- The work of one dude, Matthew T. Marquardt who obviously makes music for himself as this is as experimental as it gets. These are compositions not songs, pal. syllablesection@gmail.com
TODAY THE MOON, TOORROW THE SUN- WILDFIRE- GREYDAY- Moody, atmospheric dance rock./pop that is minimal one moment then swirling and full the next. They do it well but not my bag. www.greydayrecords.com
TURF WAR- YEARS OF LIVING DANGEROUSLY- OLD FLAME- What was once a solo project from singer John Robinson turned into a full fledged band. The band hails from Atlanta, got Ian from the Black Lips to produce and upchuck 11 catchy garage rock tunes. The songs are easy to like and I’ll bet live they blow the doors off. www.oldflamerecords.com
EVAN VOYTAS- FEEL ME- DOVECOTE- 5 songs from this rural PA guy gone all L.A. on us. Sorta right in between where Of Montreal meets Prince. That falsetto…oh, that falsetto. www.dovecoterecords.com
WESLEY WOLFE CYNICS NEED LOVE TOO – ODESSA- North Carolina dude who recorded every note of these 10 songs by himself (and apparently lathe cut each vinyl; copy on his own machine (??!!). It wavers between downtrodden folk and some chirpier pop (“Stranded with You”) plus some icier, moody gunk as well. Worthy of a listen or 10. www.odessarecords.com
YOUNG ANTIQUES- A MAN, NOT A BIOGRAPHY- TWO SHEDS- I dunno but Atlanta seems to currently be the bullseye for garage, punky poop stuff and this bands fits right in. They have a few other records out but this I the first I’ve heard ‘em. At times unhinged like the Black Lips and others more mid-tempo doing a sorta Springsteen thing (“Biography”). Most of the songs are worth hearing. www.twoshedsmusic.com
YOUTH LAGOON- THE YEAR OF HIBERNATION- FAT POSSUM- The work of one guy out of Boise, Idaho, Nathan Powers. You’ll hear some o the fragility of a Perfume Genius) with a dash of Sparklehorse (esp. in Powers’ vocals) but with a hint of psych and a good pop sensibility. Umm….did that make sense? If not then I’ll sum it up by saying it’s good. www.fatpossum.com
ZOUNDS- THE REDEMPTION OF ZOUNDS- OVERGROUND- Apparently an old Rough Trade band (began in 1977) centered around the talents of anarcho punk Steve Lake. The band’s sound sounds more regular work though a bit grittier than the usual fare but you have Lake’s bent ramblings to give it some flair. Not a great record but a solid one nonetheless and definitely worth a listen. My fave here is the soaring “Supermarche.” www.overgroundrecords.co.uk
Kidd Oblivion Tells you the truth…
ABYSSAL CREATURES – SOCIAL AWKWARDNESS – SELF – A clumbsy, clunky mix of limp twee-pop and horrible club/dance music. I have decided to rename them “Abysmal Creatures.”
ABSTRACT ARTIMUS – RITE OF PASSAGE – DIRE LIFE – Music = a JV version of KISS and poorly recorded Black Sabbath. Vocals = a JV version of Skynyrd and Crash Test Dummies.
ALKALINE TRIO – DAMNESIA – EPITAPH – I always thought these guys were the Al Kaline Trio which would be much cooler than this, but oh well… This music is well-suited for reality TV background tracks or frat-house rape parties.
ANAM MILA – RESET – SELF – Pseudo-intellectual, female adult-contemporary soft-rock that is preachy, whiny and incredibly annoying. This is the kind of girl that thinks going apple-picking is fun.
NICOLE ATKINS – MONDO AMORE – RAZOR & TIE – Normally I would make some snarky comment about the radio-friendly over production of songs obviously written with the intention of being bought and sold commercially, but this chick looks fucking crazy, and she’s from Asbury Park, NJ so I’m not sayin’ shit.
THE BERRYS – FAIRMOUNT STATION – UNKNOWN – Dear Berrys: the Continental Drifters want their record back.
BLACK WIDOWS – LIVE ON KXCU – VITAL GESTURE – Killer, agro surf-rock played by guys who always wear black hoods? Abso-fucking-lutely!
BOY+KITE – GO FLY – SELF – Incredibly well recorded and mixed record by these Austin youngsters that effortlessly merge’s old and new-school indie-rock into a big Pavement-Death Cab-Ride-Broken Social Scene sandwich. Helluva debut.
JC BROOKS & THE UPTOWN SOUND – WANT MORE – BLOODSHOT – Super solid Chicago soul. (That’s some alliteration bitches.) Dig it.
CHOCOLATE HORSE – BEASTS – STABLE – After 20 or some-odd years of writing for various fanzines I think I’ve earned the right to categorically refuse to review a band that decided to call themselves Chocolate Horse.
CIVIL TONES – CITY STOOPIN – PRAVDA – Meters/Booker T rip-off that doesn’t come close to the likes of the Diplomats of Solid Sound or the New Mastersounds’ impersonation of this music. Go buy Booker T Jones NEW Lp instead – it kills.
COMET GAIN – HOWL OF THE LONELY CROWD – WYR – Whoa, the CG is still around!? No shit? Well lemme tell you, they throw down some excellent, catchy guitar-indie-pop circa 80’s New Zealand-style on this slab! Immediately recalled the likes of the Bevis Frond, Verlaines, Chills, Vaselines and even a little Axemen. Nicely nicely.
DOWNPILOT – NEW GREAT LAKES – TAPETE – More sullen, boner-killing music by some band who once had a song on the “One Tree Hill” TV show. I fell asleep while it was playing, awoke angry and had to immediately start drinking gin to counter-act this record.
THOMAS DOLBY – A MAP OF THE FLOATING CITY – TRANSMEDIA – Everyone’s favorite goggle-wearing, fart-synth master has returned from the 1980’s with a new slab of milk-toast drivel that is LITERALLY the soundtrack from a video game, and is peppered with lyrics like “she sold brassieres at Sears.” No, I’m not kidding.
FOREST FIRE – STARING AT THE X – FATCAT – Just because a band played a show with the Walkmen (once) doesn’t mean that that band is any good. It just means they probably know someone in the Walkmen. For the record, I don’t like the Walkmen either. So there.
GLAMBILLY – WHITE BBQ SAUCE – SAUSTEX – Hilarious Texas bar-rock band that look like the Goo Goo Dolls and aren’t worth the gum stuck to the Reverend Horton Heat’s boot. The only saving grace is that the bass player rocks a DiPinto bass, which still doesn’t make up for their stupid name or leopard skin collars.
GOLD BEACH – HABIBTI – SP – Hey Gold beach, did you ever hear the saying “Don’t bore us, get to the chorus?” Well, it’s solid advice and you should try it sometime. Also, you can’t use the word “Beach” in your name anymore – too many bands have already done that.
HALLOWEEN ALASKA – ALL NIGHT THE CALLS CAME IN – AMBLE DOWN – Hollow, apathetic rip-off of Postal Service or +/- by four dudes who obviously prefer Sting’s solo records to any indie records their girlfriends must play for them. Yawn.
JIM JONES REVUE – BURNING YOUR HOUSE DOWN – PUNK ROCK BLUES RECS – Above average bar-rock that really wants to be like Jon Spencer’s Heavy Trash but just doesn’t quite cut it. They seem to be really into “rocking.”
THE LINDSAY – DEEP IN THE QUEUE – ANYWAY – This record was a great surprise blast of scratchy indie anthems straight outta Columbus OH. The Lindsay take their cues from 60’s staples like the Who, the Standells and the Creation and mash them together with current favorites like Times New Viking, 11th Dream day and the Asteroid #4 - all to great effect. Yessir I approve.
ROBIN O’BRIEN – THE EMPTY BOWL – LUXOTONE – Suburban mom strums Lilith Fair-esque “soul stylings” in the coffee house located in the dead strip-mall of her doomed suburban town.
THE PACK A.D. – UNPERSONS – MINT – Girl-On-Girl White Stripes.
PERILS OF PENELOPE – THIS PRODUCT IS NOT A TOY – GAW BASTARD – This is old school, 3 piece, instrumental math-rock a la Del Ray, Polline, Very Secretary, Mercury Program, Faraquet etc. I like.
PINE HILL HAINTS – WELCOME TO THE MIDNIGHT OPRY – K – Campfire songs for white people with Masters degrees.
PINEY GIR – JESUS WEPT – GREY DAY – Sorta-slick girl-country like Cheryl Crow doin Wanda Jackson covers.
GABRIEL MILLER PHILLIPS – ONE FOR THE CROW – SELF – Eric Matthews for people who don’t like Eric Matthews. There are some creepy-cool moments on this that are worth checkin out.
PROPHETS AND KINGS – S/T – SELF – Hazy, drum-programmed indie-disco that’s perfect for drug-addled, bi-sexual, ADD 20-somethings to grind to. I’m old, I’ll pass.
THE QUALIA – MEMORIAL GORE – UNKNOWN – I like and respect the fact that this guy started a band in order to counter-punch all of the Dave Matthews-style bands that existed in his town. I also like his obvious affinity for Devo, Wall of Voodoo and Oingo Boingo. However, he sounds exactly like the singer from They Might Be Giants which kinda wrecks it for me. Pretty good synth-pop though folks…
REMORA – SCARS BRING HOPE – SILBER – Electronic Gothic Folk Sludge. I just invented a new genre.
RICH ROBINSON – THROUGH A CROOKED SUN – CIRCLE SOUND – This is the uppity younger brother/guitarist from the Black Crowes and while this record is thin, predictable and fairly terrible, it’s still waaaaaaaay better than anything the Crowes have crapped out over the last 10 years.
SAMIAM – ORPHAN WORKERS – NO IDEA – This is a collection of outtakes, live cuts etc. from these late 90’s arena-punkers. I never paid any attention to the slew of bands that got signed after Green Day made it big, so this was actually new to me. It’s funny to think that a major label paid for this! Anyway, if you like that “sound/style” then this will probably make you all nostalgic for Woodstock ’94. Plus, the band’s “personal thoughts” written in the liner notes make them seem like swell guys. Golly, isn’t punk rock nice.
MARK SULTAN – WHATEVER WHENEVER – IN THE RED – Straight-up and stone-cold beach/garage rawk from one half of King Khan and the BBQ show. Kills.
ROCKY VOTOLATO – TRUE DEVOTION – BARSUK – Acoustic-based indie singer-songwriter fare. If you like the early Josh Rouse or Matt Pond stuff crossed with the bleakness of a Bonnie Prince Billy album, then you will gladly cry in your beer while this record revolves in the background.
DECEMBER 2011
SCOTLAND BARR & THE SLOW DRAGS- WE WILL BE FORGOTTEN- SELF RELEASED- Portland musician Scotland Barr (Scott Barr Moritz) died last year of pancreatic cancer but this 2-cd collection shows his superb talent for writing alt-country gems. Disc 1 is Barr’s vocals while disc 2 is a slew of guest vocalists and their cosmic Americana touched many folks in the Portland area and beyond. RIP Scotland. www.scotlandbarr.com
BLACK GIRLS- S/T- WORTHLESS JUNK- A hearty/heady brew of glam, soul and disco from 6 dudes who call Richmond, VA home. For fans of Of Montreal. www.worthless-junk.com
CAMILLE BLOOM & THE RECOVERY- NEVER OUT OF TIME- SELF RELEASED- Talented Seattle-ite who is very difficult to pin down. One moment she’s rocking your sock off while at other times she’s darker and more pensive. Not totally my cup of tea, but I will say one thing, she is talented and never seems willing to go the easy route. www.camillebloom.com
BODIES OF WATER-TWIST AGAIN- THOUSAND TONGUES- This LA band led by David Metcalf and his wife Meredith, are not afraid to take chances. This is a nice mix of grand pop (that was more present on their earlier records) and something a bit more off-kilter. “Mary , Don’t You Weep” Is a perfect example of the latter (when David sounds a bit like Bowie/Ferry). Give this one time and gems will slowly unveil themselves. www.bodiesofwater.net
MIKAL CRONIN- S/T- TROUBLE IN MIND- SF dude who plays bass in the Moonhearts and is pals (and a collaborator) with Ty Segall (Thee Oh See’s John Dwyer plays flute on this) who has released an electic little record here, Beach Boys one minute into fuzzier territory the next. Not sure why it took me so long to listen to it but I’m glad I did, it’s good. www.troubleinmindrec.scom
DIGITALISM- I LOVE YOU , DUDE- V2- Dance music with big, fat hooks and plenty of attitude. I’d call it neo-electro but I don’t know what neo means,. Just buy it.
DUBOIZA KOLEKTIV- WILD WILD EAST- KOOLARROW- A mix of reggae, hip hop and Balkan music. I wish I was kidding. www.koolarrow.com
HOT CLUB MURPHY- 12 MINUTES AT THE….- HYPED2DEATH- Chuck (H2D Prez , CEO and janitor) digs under every nook and cranny to find these obscure bands. This bunch, led by Robert Storey existed in the UK in the early 80’s and this is available as a 7” (limited to 457 copies) . The music? Well, what you might expect from former members of The Homosexuals and This Heat: rumbling, crispy, creepy, cascading and , well interesting to say the least. Come on, be adventurous! www.hyped2death.com
THE ICONS- APPOINTMENT WITH DESTINY- GREEN MONKEY- Seattle bunch who have apparently been around for years (or maybe just got back together). Some of it sounds a bit clunky (like the opener “You’re the One”) but then some sounds awesome (like the ripping “X-Ray”) and most of this falls into the latter category. I dig the parody of the old Groundhogs record, too. www.greenmonkeyrecords.com
LITTLE DRAGON- RITUAL UNION- PEACEFROG- Basically a vehicle for Swedish-Japanese singer Yukimi Nagano who has been recording (and guesting on other folks records) for the last decade. This is a melding of r & b, soul, electronic and new wave and on top of it all is Nagano smooth-as-frosting vocals. Not my thing but probably a lot of folks (thing,). www.peacefrog.com
NATURAL CHILD- 1971- INFINITY CAT- Stoner garage psych rock from 3 young dudes who obviously love the green (no talking about money here). Tongue-in-cheek this may but , but still not as good as Blue Cheer. www.infinitycat.com
NEXT STOP: HORIZON- WE KNOW EXACLTY WHERE WE ARE GOING- TAPETE- Please wake me when this is over. www.tapeterecords.de
OHBIJOU- METAL MEETS- LAST GANG- 3rd record by this Toronto-based – 6 piece (started by two sisters) . Ok, despite the title there’s no metal here (big sigh of relief) on the contrary, this is swoony, folky pop music that swirls and gleams. I was in no way prepare for this, this is good, I wasn’t expecting good. www.lastgangentertainment.com
PEOPLE LIKE US & WOBBLY- MUSIC FOR THE FIRE- ILLEGAL- The two folks involved in this (Vickie Bennet who is People Like Us and John Leidecker who is Wobbly) are apparently two very well respected sound collage artists. I have not heard of them but then again, I know very little of that scene. This record is 17 “songs” with tape loops, samples, voice and the like. Interesting. www.illegal-art.net
SLOPES OF DISTANT HILLS- S/T- LUXOTONE- This “band” is the work of one, guy, Andrew Maurer, armed with his voice, acoustic guitar and a keyboard he creates 11 musical nuggets. It’s really easy to like as most o it is pleasant and melodic. I like it an think you might too. www.luxotone.com
THE SOFT MOON- TOTAL DECAY ep- CAPTURED TRACKS- After a relatively poppy debut record Luis Vasquez returns with 4 more songs only this time the mood is much darker. Here bent synths stick their necks out and this is definitely more Suicide than Joy Division. The song titles are as follows; Repetition, Alive, Total Decay, Vision. Good luck getting some sleep tonight, www.capturedtracks.com
THE SPECTRALS- BAD PENNY- SLUMBERLAND- More jangly goodness from the Slumberland label. This is the work of UK music geek Louis Jones who plays everything on here ‘cept drums which were played by Will Jones, who may be related to him. Produced by former Spacemen 3 dude Richard Formby and Stephen Duffy designed the cover. Come on people, is that not enough name dropping to get you to purchase it? You need more? Ok, Louis has frizzy, flaming red hair (songs are good, too). www.slumberlandrecords.com
THE STRANGE BOYS- LIVE MUSIC- ROUGH TRADE- Austin, TX cowpokes who let go of the grunting scorch that greased through their first two records for a more r & b soaked affair. This time there’s more piano but the tunes still move thanks to a cohesive unit and let’s not forget Ryan Sambol’s slurred, hiccupy voice. Lots to like here but “Punk’s Pajama” is my my fave. www.roughtraderecords.com
SUPREME DICKS- BREATHING AND NOT BREATHING- JAGJAGUWAR- Eclectic bunch of freaks who slid under the radar for years and I thought would have been long forgotten about but am damn glad they aren’t . The music is that strange meeting place of frazzled noise, gong head psych and freaky folk but they make it work. All of it. www.jagjaguwar.com
TWIN SISTER- IN HEAVEN- DOMINO- I’m still trying to figure out why some folks like this. www.dominorecordco.com
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD TO CANDYLAND- KNOWS YOUR SINS- RECESS- This is Todd formerly of FYP and Toys that Kill (and the head of Recess Records) new band. Well, not so new anymore but thisese15 songs choogle by in 35 minutes and along the way you’ll hit elements of punk, garage, indie rock, surf and the like. A thoroughly entertaining listen….this is excellent! www.recessrecords.com
WILD FLAG- S/T- MERGE- Better than Sleater-Kinney and Helium combined (but not The Minders). Looser, catchier and more fun and live, they all dance, shimmy and shake (‘cept Janet) and it’s a blast. The record is merely good but live is where they really deliver. Ok, that my 2 cents. www.mergerecords.com
NOVEMBER 2011
BLITZEN TRAPPER- AMERICAN GOLDWING- SUB POP- On the 6th record by this Portland bunch they dive headfirst into , gulp, ……70’s boogie rock. They do a good job of it and who knows, if I gave this more listens I might even fly the Foghat flag (doubt it , though). www.subpop.com
THE CHERRY BLUESTORMS- TRANSIT OF VENUS- ROUNDHOUSE- This LA trio has been at it for a few years and tho’ this record is from 2007 It’s still worth reviewing in this batch of new reviews. Vocalist/percussionist Deborah Gee has strong yet sleek vocals (think Chrissy Hynde, at times) while guitarist Glen Laughlin eeks out righteous riffs that are a cool mix of rock, pop and psych. Tune in but don’t drop out. www.thecherrybluestorms.com
DELICATE CUTTERS- SOME CREATURES- SKYBUCKET- Sophomore effort from this female-led band who took their name form a Throwing Muses song. It’s unique art pop with lots of fiddle and vocalist Janet Simpson’s unique confident wail. Well worth your precious time. www.skybucket.com
DIRTY MITTENS- HEART OPF TOWN- MAGIC MARKER- This Portland band, who had only self-released an ep about 5 years ago, return with their debut it they head in a different direction on HEART OF TOWN. Exploring avenues of soul and dance pop. I miss the playful spirit of their earlier days but on “This Here Year” (and a few others) it does make a return. Also, I’m hit and miss on Courtney Morrissey’s vocals on this record (“Let It Go” = miss). Not sure about this record yet. www.magicmarkerrecords.com
THE GREEN PAJAMAS- GREEN PAJAMA COUNTRY- GREEN MONKEY- Yup, this is the same Seattle band led by Jeff Kelly who have been at it for nearly 3 decades and had records out on Parasol to Green Monkey to Camera Obscura (not just a band). This has the band tackling , yup, country music but adding their own otherworldly slant to it and it’s REALLY good. Believe it. www.thegreenpajamas.net
JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT- HERE WE REST- LIGHTNING ROD- Though I’m a big Isbell fan I didn’t get this (released in April 2011) ‘til recently. It’s great. www.lightningrodrecords.com
IVY- ALL HOURS- NETTWERK- For me Ivy have always been a diamond in the rough, a sophisticated pop band that only cool people (and no idiots) liked. On here, their first record since 2005, they delve more into the electronic dance pop that they had previously only touched upon on other records. It’s not my bag and I miss the sprightly pop (which makes an appearance here on “Make It So Hard” ) of prior records. Hope it’s not another 6 years in between records. www.nettwerk.com
THE Ks- RED NUMBERS RISING FASTER- SELF RELEASED- Ok, any band that had s a full-time sax (alto , no less) player qualifies as a party band. This NYC bunch like to have fun and can also rock your socks off. The songs are pretty goofy, but fun and occasionally have some bite. My favorite song: “Black Bubblegum.” www.theksband.blogspot.com
BRIAN KEENAN- TODAY THIS YEAR- SELF RELEASED- Local boy makes good. This is the solo debut from Proud Simon’s main songwriter Keenan. It’s a solid listen all the way through with a few excellent songs (opener “From Scratch:” is great). Both he and his band need more listeners and more respect as both are severely underrated. www.briankeenan.com
THE LAST CONSPIRATORS- WARPARTY- DRM- his band is led by former Morons vocalist (and Sundazed Records employee , Tim Livingston. He’s been on the scene forever and you can tell as the 10 songs on WARPARTY range from gutsy punk to more jagged post punk to more bluesy/psych (“American Son” sounds like it colulda benena Love cover) while “Crash” slinks into elements of dub. This was released in 2007 but regardless, a fine, fine listen. www.lastconspirators.com
LITTLE HORN- 12- WHALE HEART- Gritty folk form an Atlanta band who should go on tour with Brian Keenen (see above). Just do it, it might be a funky adventure.
MALE BONDING- ENDLESS NOW- SUB POP- Another older release (came out in March) but this smokes. From the name I was expecting some gritty post punk but this is smooth, melodic rock ala Fluf (remember them?) that really does rock. www.subpop.com
THE MIGRANT- AMERIKA- SELF RELEASED- A Danish gent named Bjarke Bendtsen was so enamored of America that he showed up her with an acoustic guitar strapped to his back and not much else. Traveled around , played shows and, oh yeah, recorded a record in Texas. This is dreamy pop with airy melodies and a real sense of pouring his heart out (for reals). www.themigrant.net
AARON NOVIK- FLOATING WORLD VOL. 21- PORTO FRANCO- A 21-song cycle based on the lives of oddball souls and freaks that call San Francisco home. Though you may think SF has yupped out these last several years (it has0 there’s still several nooks, crannie and pockets of these guys. From pop to prog, FLOATING WORLD VOL. 1 is if nothing an interesting and dedicated listen. www.portofrancorecords.com
NUCULAR AMINALS- S/T- K- One of the newer K bands (on Portland) so I assumed that they were gonna be some sorta wacked out noise ensemble but this band actually creates smooth, melodic pop and most of this is really good. Opener “Bob Flanagan” is excellent while 2nd tune “Ammut Eat” was murky and just ok. The record goes up and down like that but the good stuff good. Good. www.krecs.com
OTHER LIVES- TAMER ANIMALS- TBD- Oklahoma bunch (you might think they’re from NY or LA or something) who tackles some pretty grand ambitions on this sophomore effort. On these 11 songs the strings swoon , horns slink and the whole thing come off like some oddball spaghetti western lost classic. On the boring parts they remind me of Coldplay but don’t worry, there’s only a few of those. www.tbdrecords.com
THE QUAGS- PRICELESS GRAINS OF SAND- PAISLEY POP- I somehow lost track of these Portland Beatles/Byrds/Kinks disciples (not sure how, we’re in the same town) but they’ve still got it…and in spades! PRICELESS GRAINS OF SAND kicks out 11 terrific guitar pop nuggets that would make Ray Davies proud. Songwriter Dennis Mitchell is way, way underrated and this deserves your undivided attention www.paisleypop.com
THE RATIONALES- THE DISTANCE IN BEWTWEEN0- SELF RELEASE- This low-key Boston band released a fine record a few years ago (THER GOING AND THE GONE from 2008) that made me take notice and this here is just as good, maybe better. Punchy rock/pop song punctuated by sticky hooks and confident vocals of leader David Mirabella. Don’t miss. www.therationales.com
RED EYE FUGU- WATCHERS- SELF RELEASED- Someone , who was listening much more intently than I was, called this “high concept electro funk.” Fair enough. www.redeyefugu.tumblr.com
ARI SHINE- GHOST TOWN DIRECTORY- BEVERLY MARTEL- This is kinda punchy rock music and not sure why I don’t like it but I don’t. I think it’s the cocky sounding vocals. I’m not gonna get all bearded rock critic on you (‘cos for one I don’t have a beard), just not my cup o’ tea. www.arishine.com
SHIPWRECK- HOUSE OF CARDS ep – SELF RELEASED- I judged the band on their first song that sounded like bad Co. or something (I don’t like Bad Co.) . It gets better from there though the whole “RIYL: Pavement and Neutral Milk Hotel” still has me baffled. www.shipwreckband.com
SLEEPING IN THE AVIARY- YOU AND ME, GHOST- SOS- It’s really hard not to like this band. First off, they have a real sense of goofiness which mean they don’t take themselves too seriously but then you really listen and they can rock! And write damn good pop songs! Listen to “Love Police” or “Someone Loves You” and tell me you don’t like them,. Go ahead, do it. www.sleepingintheaviary.com
SNAILHOUSE- SENTIMENTAL GENTLEMAN- WHITE WHALE/FORWARD MUSIC GROUP- This is the long-running side project of (Canadian band) Wooden Stars dude Mike Feuerstack just keeps on keeping on and they do it in such a low-key way you wonder why Feuerstack even bothers, but we’re glad he does as these 10 fine rock ditties (that waver between heavy and spare) are certainly worthy of your time. www.snailhousemusic.com
SOUTHERN CULTURE ON THE SKIDS- ZOMBIFIED- KUDZU- Right on time for last week’s Halloween this is SKOTS tribute to their beloved b-grade horror flicks. I have to admit though, while I love this North Carolina’s band twangified sound and have for years, the songs on ZOMBIFIED were a tad on the dull side. It ain’t bad bit it’s not DIRT TRACK DATE ,either (still won’t miss ‘em live if they come to town) . www.kudzuranchrecorders.com
STILL FLYIN- NEU IDEAS COMPILATION- LOST AND LONESOME RECORDING CO- This is a 9-song compilation of all of the vinyl releases that this San Francisco band (led by Master of the Obvious, Sean Rawls) released last year. Unlike 2010’s superb NEVER GONNA TOUCH THE GROUND this is moodier with forays into dance and even Krautrock. Not as catchy as previous stuff but still unique and interesting. www.lostandlonesome.com.au
WEEKEND- RED ep- SLUMBERLAND- Bay Area trio who released the strong SPORTS lp last year come back with 5 more shards of feedback-driven rock. The opener, “Sweet Sixteen” is pure dentist drill roc but “Hazel” adds lots more melody and closer “Golfers”, at nearly 6 minutes (and a murky beginning) , steals the show! www.slumberlandrecords.com
YUKON BLONDE- FIRE/WATER EP -DINE ALONE- Folks who’re compiling a contemporary version of a 1972 milk crate stuffed with Crazy Horse/Byrds/Buffalo Springfield/Steve Miller records have another contender in this brief, beefy four-song set from the Vancouver, Canada-based quartet. But, wait: “School Kids” and “Choices” mix the more contemporary flavor of anthemic choruses, a strident beat, and Brandon Scott’s clean, juicy guitar shreds with those influences. My preference is for the rock-spiked earthiness of “Water,” which is unaffectedly lovely. It takes everything it needs from the Phil Spector book of effects; leaving the excess for others. www.yukonblonde.com MARY LEARY
V/A- THE ROCK GARAGE: TEXAS LIVE CONCERT SERIES- SELF RELEASED- Rawk comp from the Lone Star State that includes Nashville Pussy, Hickoids, Ugly Beats, Dashriprock, Pocket Fishrmen and plenty more. The guitars are loud, the room sweaty and the beer flowing. G’night. www.therockgarage.com
V/A- SWEET RELIEF VOL II: HEARTS ON FIRE- JAM- Stellar power pop comp that’s for a good cause (“for victims of hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters”) that includes Jeremy (Morris, who put it all together), DM3, Grip Weeds, Seth Swirsky, Cosmic Rough Riders, Lolas, The Primary 5, and plenty more. Support the cause! www.jamrecordings.com
OCTOBER 2011
AM & SHAWN LEE- CELESTIAL ELECTRIC- ESL MUSIC- This is a collaboration between singer/songwriter AM and multi-instrumentalist Shawn Lee and it hits that sweet spot right where techno, funk, soft pop and psychedelic all meet in a real laid back fashion with plenty of nods to the 70’s. I didn’t think it’d be up my alley but it’s easy on the ears and there’s really plenty to like here. www.eslmusic.com
KYLE ANDREWS- ROBOT LEARN LOVE- ELEPHANT LADY- I enjoyed this guys KANGAROO ep of last year and now he’s back with this 10-song full-length. He excels at electro-pop that is to say hooky music with lots of blurts n’ bleeps but then again he can go the straight pop route with guitars too. I definitely like him in smaller doses so I will probably listen to the EP rather than this tho’ parts of this are very good (“Bombs Away”, title track, etc.) and a few annoying parts (“Laser Tag with Imaginary Friends”). www.kyleandrews.com
BEAR LAKE- IF YOU WERE ME- SELF RELEASED- I like this….these guys have a laid-back pop sound, add some electronics and even some occasional slightly high-pitched vocals (like he’s going for a soul/Prince vibe or something). I mean, who knows, on stage if the crowd was dazedly swaying I might hate it but in my cd player….it’s tasty. www.bearlakemusic.com
BUNKY MOON- SCHTUFF WE LIKE- LO NOTE- Charlotte, NV trio who offer up 11 songs and half of them are covers. They do The Who (“Boris the Spider”), Bowie (“Space Oddity”), Zappa (“King Kong”) etc. as well as a few original that I didn’t like. I’ll bet they knock ‘em dead in Charlotte. www.reverbnation.com/bunkymoon
CABIN DOGS- MIDNIGHT TRAIL- CRIPPLED HOUND- Brother Rich and Rob Kwait along with a host of friends make up the Cabin Dogs and they specialize in homespun, low-key country, folk and even a bit of r & b. The songwriting is ace and they deserve a much longer review than they’re getting here but this is all I can offer right now. But trust me, this is GOOD. www.cabindogs.com
COM TRUISE- GALACTIC MELT- GHOSTLY INTERNATIONAL- Com Trusioe is the work of Princeton, NJ’s Seth Haley. This is electronic music. I normally don’t like electronic music, but I like this.
TONY COX – ON THE WAY- COXY MUSIC- His 2009 cd, UNPUBLISHED, was solid and occasionally very good but this sophomore effort is even better. He gets help from Nigel Clark (Dodgy, The Offbeat, etc.) and the two have crafted quite a nice little pop record here. MY two favorites here are the bouncy “Hold Me Angeline” and the soaring “Alicia’ but there’s not a bad song on here. www.coxymusic.com
DARK MEAN- S/T- SELF RELEASED- You might think they hail from Kentucky or somewhere in Appalachia but no, this trio calls Hamilton, Ontario (that’s Canada, kids) home. There’s banjo, there’s some foot stomping and lots of acoustic guitars and heartfelt vocals (keyboards, too). “Smoke Lake” even has a drum machine so they’re not afraid to mix it up. Oh and they write good songs, too. www.myspace.com/darkmeanband
DES ARK- DON’T ROCK THE BOAT, SINK THE FUCKER- LOVITT- The work of one Aimee Colette Argotte and some friends (she has been the one constant in the band since its inception) starts off all electro folky and gentle and then , during song #3 “Bonne Chance Asshole” the gears shift ant kicks into a bigger , noisier beast. From that point on the record straddles the two genres and it at times impressive and confusing. DRTBSTF seems to be the work of an artist on edge, a few edges, and she’s willing to dive right in at all times. www.lovitt.com
DIVA- THE GLITTER END- CRITICAL HEIGHTS- Trippy grooves from Diva Dompé, who is the daughter of Kevin Haskins of Bauhaus. Arty, theatrical, pretentious, unique and more. I couldn’t get past the 2nd song but you might be able to. www.criticalheights.com
ELEANOR FRIEDBERGER- LAST SUMMER- MERGE- Yup, this is THAT Eleanor, one half of the brother/sister duo Fiery Furnaces. I like this more than any FF record though there are songs on here that I love (opener “My Mistakes” is awesome) while others grate on my ears a bit (2nd song “Inn of the Seventh Ray”). Still tho’, there is more good than bad and who knows , it might spark me into checking the ‘furnaces a bit more. www.mergerecords.com
SCOTT GAGNER- RHAPSODY IN BLONDE- SELF RELEASED- This is the same Scott Gagner who was in the San Francisco band Cartographer but since there are other bands of that name is decided to go at it using his own name. There’s 14 songs on here and he genre hops all over but does justice to most genres. Opener “I Hate to Say” sounded like The Strokes while “Speak & Spell” was more straight up power pop and “Laura No. 1” is pure 50’s/60’s smooth pop. The guy is a seriously good songwriter and RHAPSODY IN BLONDE needs more ears. Lends yours. www.scottgagner.com
GUITAR- IT’S SWEET TO DO NOTHING!- CLAIRE- Guitar is the work of German one-man band Michael Luckner. He has been releasing records as Guitar for nearly a decade. This one is a concept record about relaxation and is less shoegaze (like his other stuff) and more…well, nearly ambient. Parts of this are truly beautiful whole others slip into pretension, but nevertheless, it is always interesting. Best song title: “The Girl with the Freckles That Sounded Like Two Bells.” www.clairecords.com
HOORAY FOR EARTH- TRUE LOVES- DOVECOTE- Apparently the core of this band has been playing together for 15 years (since high school) they have a few other records out but this is definitely their best yet. A swarthy mix of keyboards, psychedelia and pop hooks and strong songwriting. You might think leader Noel Heroux is some kind of pop mad scientist and you might be right. Give “Last Minute” a spin, you’ll either love it or hate it. www.hoorayforearth.net
I BREAK HORSES- HEARTS- BELLA UNION- Swedish duo of Maria (she sings) and Fredrik (he creates “the mood”) and they call this nu-gaze or some shit. It’s an unholy melding of electronics and shoe gaze and the first few tunes were amazing (“Winter Beats” and “Hearts” …especially the latter) but they sort of lose it from there. I do wanna hear more… www.cooperativemusicusa.com
THE INVALIDS- STILL SICK- ST. ROSE- If I recall correctly this Santa Rosa, CA band existed, then didn’t exist and now voila! They exist again. This is catchy, buzzsaw punk with snotty vocals. In fact, the lead (not backing) vocals were my least favorite part of it, otherwise this sounds like prime stuff by The Queers or Screeching Weasel and is a rockin’ good time. www.saintroserecords.com
THE LAST CONSPIRATIORS- WHEN IT ALL COMES DOWN- DRIVING RAIN- Upstate NY band led by Tim Livingston on vocals. They seem to take influence from several UK bands (The Clash, The Adverts, The Ruts, etc.) and add the needed passion (and hooks) to make this one a winner. www.lastconspirators.com
MAD ANTHONY I SPENT ALL MONEY ON SPEED METAL- PHRATRY- Cincinnati quartet with a band member named Ringo and a vocalist who wants to be Danzig (occasionally). They hit hard, the guitars grind and at times it all comes together in a good song (“The Solution to the Indian Problem”) but otherwise, this is just ok. www.phratryrecords.com
MALA IN SE- S/T- PHRATRY- 7 songs of hammering noise rock with metal overtones. After it was all done Aleve didn’t work nor did Excedrin and I’m STILL wincing, Yeah, I said WINCING. www.phratryrecords.com
THE MIGHTY GRASSHOPPERRS S/T- VITAL GESTURE- Nice batch o; garage pop songs from this So. Cal. band featuring the songwriting for Chris LeRoy and Tony Fate (they occasionally write separately and occasionally together). They blend different eras of rock from, the 50’s on up and have a good sense of it all like the Flamin Groovies. Nice. www.myspace.com/grasshoppercentral
MOBY- DESTROYED- MUTE- Sorry, I’m the wrong guy to review a Moby record yet here I am. It’s pulsing, icy electronic music with lots of synths, a few special female vocalists and some strings too. I liked “Sevastopol” but not much else on here. www.mute.com
MOONLIGHT TOWERS- DAY IS THE NEW NIGHT- CHICKEN RANCH- Ha, and I thought they were a new band, but nope been around a decade and this is their 3rd record. This Austin quartet claims to just wanna make people dance with their retro power pop sound and hey, it’s ok with me. The songs are there and they’ve got the facial hair to prove it. Huzzah! www.chickenranchrecords.com
LISA MORALES- BEAUTIFUL MISTAKE- ZAIRO- Formerly a member of a band called Sisters Morales, this is the solo debut form Texan Lisa Morales a record that was influenced, at least party by the death of her moth. There is a mix of styles but heavy on the emotion. My favorites are the more upbeat, snappier ones (“I don’t want to hear what you have to say”, “Driving and Cryin’, etc.). A talented songwriter to say the least. www.lisamoralesmusic.com
MY FIRST EARTHQUAKE- FRICTION- SELF RELEASED- Sophomore effort from this transplanted San Francisco band (from, where, I’m not sure) who play not-so-serious synth pop in the vein of Metric and Mates of State. Nothing earth-shattering here but not bad. I’d like to see ‘em on stage before I say anything else. www.myfirstearthquake.com
THE NEW TRUST & FRIENDS- BATTLE TO THE DEATH- SAINT ROSE- Santa Rosa, CA band (w/ a member or two from The Velvet Teen) offering up 5 acoustic songs (old tunes) , 5 new songs and some local bands covering their songs (Santiago, Themes, Judah Nagler, etc.) for a grand total of 18 tunes. Well-played, well-written songs and really enjoyable as well. The band does a great job of practicing then fine art of subtlety and the whole package was a great idea , too. www.saintroserecords.com
THE PARSONS RED HEADS- YEARLING- ARRCO- …and I thought these hirsute folks were a brand new band but alas, no they have few other records out but Portland-based Arena Rock Record Co. released this new one (they are now based on LA). This is rolling folk music with some psychedelic touches and , it must be said, good songwriting. Acoustic guitars pedal steel, harmonies , etc….you know the drill. www.arenarockrecordingco.com
RADIATION CITY- THE HANDS THAT TAKE YOU- TENDER LOVING EMPIRE- Portland quartet doing 60s-inspired pop though it wasn’t as grand as I’d like it to be, a bit moodier and quirkier than normal and hey, they even add in some beats too. I didn’t like it at all the first time through anf now I kinda like it so by this time next week who knows…. www.tenderlovingempire.com
SIGOURNEY REVERB- BEES IN YOUR BED BAD- GREEN MONNKEY- Seattle bunch who don’t take themselves (or much else) very seriously. This is occasionally hooky and raw with a good snotty attitude. My pick to click was “Whose Yer Muse?”. www.greenmonkeyrecords.com
BOBB TRIMBLE- THE CRIPPLED DOG BAND- YOGA- Oddball release originally in 1983 (and he had two previous records that the Secretly Canadian label reissued a few years back). This guy is hard to nail down and is definitely influenced by 60’s garage/psych gunk. . The vocals (and guitars) sound like they’re from another planet and I’m still trying to get a handle on this. www.yogarecords.com
THE WOMBATS- THIS MODERN GLITCH- BRIGHT ANTENNA- 2nd record from these kids from Liverpool and it’s as catchy and ebullient as the debut. Leader Matthew Murphy is this decade’s Damon Alborn but with BETTER songs. Believe it. www.brightantenna.com
SEPTEMBER 2011
ARIEL ABSHIRE- STILL SO NEW- LEARNING TO SHARE- This Austin, TX 19 year old has apparently been around music most of her life and singing since she was 11. She has recorded with old timers (Pinetop Perkins) and hipster indie bands (Matt Pond PA). She has a great set of pipes, but this 11-song collection is a bit too shiny and air-brushed for my liking. It’s pop lite, catchy but ultimately uninspiring. www.arielabshire.com
AFROBETA- UNDER THE STREETS- DO IT- “Cuci Amador and Smurphio formed their avant-dance duo in Miami in 2006 as a means to attain an ultimate form of artistic, self-expression.” I swear I didn’t make that up. www.afrobeta.com
ANTI-SOCIAL MUSIC- IS THE FUTURE OF EVERYTHING- PEACOCK- NYC musical collective led by former Hold Steady dude Franz Nicolay doing 20 songs of bent chamber music. This is their 4th record and whole this isn’t the kind of thing you put on after dinner (or breakfast) it’s interesting nonetheless. As they say, “All fun without the pretension.” www.antisocialmusic.org
THE BACKSLIDERS- FROM DALLAS, TEXAS – SELF RELEASED- These guys keep it in the family with a hubby/wife team and his brother too. They keep the twang coming and offer up a batch of 11 mid-tempo tunes with heart (and some “Woos!” too). Nice. www.thebacksliders.com
THE BAMBOO KIDS,- THE WAY THINGS ARE ep- DRUG FRONT- This BKNY trio take influence from everyone from Chuck Berry to the Stones to The NY Dolls to The Clash and even The Boss (check out “The Streets of New York City”). They kick up enough dust and swagger (and strong tunes) to give you the shakes. Nice. www.drugfrontrecords.com
MEREDITH BRAGG- NEST- THE KORA – 4th record by this Alexandria, VAbased musician who has kept a low profile though not due to his music. On the contrary, Bragg fills a unique spot on the musical map with producing some gorgeous chamber folk with beats (and some pop hooks too,). Dive right into the dream. www.thekorarecords.com
THE CANDY SNATCHERS- DOWN AT DELILAH’S- DRUG FRONT- Over the top garage punk, these Virginia Beach yucksters were apparently one of the best live bands on the planet . This 15 song collection is their final record, recorded in 2008, just before their guitarist died of an OD and pushes everything into the red and clobbers you but good. www.drugfrontrecords.com
CASE STUDIES- THE WORLD IS JUST A SHAPE TO FILL AT NIGHT- SACRED BONES- Downbeat, languid folk form Jesse Lortz. Who is Jesse, you ask? Why he is the Duke in hardly Art band the Dutchess and the Duke. It gets a bit dramatic at times (m,y favorite parts) and hey, there is even a song called “Dagger.” Oh yeah! www.sacredbones.com
JOHN CRAIG & THE WEEKEND- NUMBERS- LOOPHOLE- Sophomore effort from this Eugene bred/Portland based musician. They have been getting a lot of local press and seem to be getting some national as well. They seem to go for a danceable indoor rock sound (ala Ra Ra Riot) and he seems to know his way around a hook, too. www.johncraigmusic.com
CULTS-S/T- COLUMBIA- Addictive girl-group-ish pop from a girl (she sings) and a guy (he does everything else) from New Yawk. Almost like a happier Portishead. Regardless, the songs are catchy as all get out and fun and if you have not heard this yet well, you need to.
THE DWARVES- ARE BORN AGAIN- MVD/GREEDY- The world’s raunchiest rock band, led by the elusive Blag Dahlia, is back and yes, born again. Self-referential as ever (the first song is called “The Dwarves are still the best band ever”) and like all good Dwarves records you hear rock, samples, folk and even some orchestration (sometimes all in the same song). www.thedwarves.com
ELYSIAN FIELDS- LAST NIGHT ON EARTH- OJET/DILUVIAN- More of that woozy, noir-ish rock (7th record, here) from the NYC duo with vocalist Jennifer Charles sounding a bit Hope Sandoval-ish (Mazzy Star) and guitarist Oren Blowdow creating the cinematic darkness. www.ojet.com
FALCON- DISAPPEAR- FMRL- BKNY quartet led by vocalist/guitarist Neil Rosen and on this 10 song debut the band creates a moody yet catchy pop sound. They reminded me a bit of the Flaming Lips (it was mixed and mastered by Lips pal Dave Fridmann) . Opening tune ‘Say Goodbye” is definitely the best but most of this is solid. www.myspace.com/falconmusic
TONY FATE- HALF VIRGIN- VITAL BGESTURE- 21 instrumental tracks in a little over 29 minutes. There’s some serious acoustic pickin’ (the first song, the title track, is the best) and other stuff on piano mandolin and keyboard. Some of this is throwaways but some is fun to listen to I also like “D Drone” (real short, though). www.myspace.com/tonyfateguitarsamuri
ELISA FLYNN- 19TH C. SONGS- SELF RELEASED- This is the 2nd cd I have received form BKNY (anti) folk songstress Flynn and it’s very good. The songs are haunting and very dark (at least one about a serial killer but all seem to have a dark, historical perspective) and the rhythm section is solid but it’s Flynn’s powerfulvocals that really stand out. 6 songs and some nice woodcuts as well. www.elisaflynn.com
FOUND AUDIO- CHALK- SELF RELEASED- What I thought was going to be a collection of weird art tunes (maybe based on their name) is a actually a simple collection of rock/pop/folk tunes. “Queen of the Road’ was bit Feelies-ish and most of the rest I easy to digest as well. www.foundaudiomusic.com
MICHAEL FRACASSO- SAINT MONDAY- LITTLE FUJI- A transplanted Texan (originally from Ohio but had a long stop in NYC) but he’s been around a long time (playing folk clubs in NYC in the late 70’s) and here he is playing his roots rock tunes with passion and heart. Longtime fans say this is his best so who am I to argue? www.michaelfracasso.com
MIWA GEMINI- FANTASTIC LIES OF GRIZZLY ROSE- ROCK PARK- Sounds to me like a concept record about an imaginary friend of Miwa’s. Still she does it all in a series of styles that is both swooping and dark. Circus music but not for Barnum, & Bailey, no ,what she creates could be in a Jodorowsky film. www.miwagemini.com
THE HAPPY THOUGHTS- S/T- HOZAC- Midwestern trio scooting to the front of the line with some good-natured , 3-chord garage pop music with some welcome fuzz. Think Ramones meets Bobby Fuller Four and you’ll be in the dugout. If I were to get married again these guys would be playing the reception. Gar-on-teed. www.hozacrecords.com
MICK HARVEY- SKETCHES FROM THE BOOK OF THE DEAD- MUTE- First solo record from Harvey since leaving Nick Caves Bad Seeds (who he had been with for over 2 decades). This is a collection of dark, moody songs like a spaghetti western meets film noir meets funeral music. There’s a song about Rowland Howard (“October Boy”) and others. A true artist with a deep, spiritual connection to the music he creates, Mick Harvey is one of a kind. www.mute.com
DAN HUBBARD & THE HUMADORS- THE LOVE SHOW – SELF RELEASED- Midwestern dude who has been around for nearly a decade. This is record #6 and he and his bunch whip up some nice Americana tunes with some occasional bursts into honky tonk. Nothing flashy here, just good American rock and roll. www.danhubbard.net
JEFF THE BROTHERHOOD- WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS- INFINITY CAT- Two dudes who ARE brothers though neither is named Jeff (and one was in Be Your Own Pet). They meld garage, psych, metal and power pop into an occasionally intriguing stew. I didn’t like the slower, meatier stuff but the faster power-pop gunk, like like “Cool Out” was a-ok. www.infinitycat.com
LEATHERFACE- VIVA LA ARTHOUSE: LIVE IN MELBOURNE- NO IDEA- Going on for over two decades, Frankie Stubbs and his troopers light yet another fire under the collective asses of the audience. This 19-song , career-spanning set is a must have (it includes 5 songs from their classic MUSH) a the intensity rarely(if ever) lets up. www.noidearecords.com
LOYAL DIVIDE BODICE RIPPER – SELF RELEASED- Bent electronica from Chicago. If you want to know more Google it.
LOOKBOOK- WILD AT HEART- SELF RELEASED- Mpls duo of Nick and Maggie. She sings and he plays guitars and fucks with the electronic instruments. A bit Yeah Yeah Yeah-ish tho’ on my favorite song,. “Way Beyond”, they remind me of The Strokes (at least the guitar does). Like. www.myspace.com/lookbookmusic
MAGNUSON- CRASH OF CASSINI- SELF RELEASED- Alternative hard rock by this Los Angeles duo. No thank you (hey, I was polite about it). www.magnusonband.com
MATT POND PA- SPRING FOOLS- ALTITUDE- Absolutely awesome 5 song ep from chamber pop band MPPA. Matt Pond and his cronies aren’t doing anything different here that they haven’t already been doing the past near decade, it’s just simply a small , tantalizing batch of songs. Stellar, low-key beauty. www.altituderecords.com
JENN MIERAU- HISH- SELF RELEASED- Moody synth pop with beats and the sensual vocals of, you got it, Jenn Mierau. A bit pretentious but hey, she opened this 8 song c with a Cure cover “Lovesong” so she gets some point there. www.songsofjenn.com
MINIBOONE- BIG CHANGES- DRUG FRONT- If these guys are the next big thing (as one writer opined) then sign me up for full-time jazzbo status. www.drugfrontrecords.com
THE NAKED HEROES- 99 DIAMOND- DRUG FRONT- Some dude named George and his wife (Merica) …yup, another bluesy, garage duo out there but these two kicks up some serious dust. Fans of AC/DC and Dazed and Confused (the movie…this could have been the soundtrack). Time to restore that old ’67 Pontiac GTO and gas it down. www.drugfrontrecords.com
DEBBIE NEIGHER- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Adult , piano pop and when I saw “adult” I mean it in the loosest sense since this gal is only 24 years old (I’m not saying that at 24 she is not an adult but, well, she is wise beyond them). She has a great voice and is obviously a trained musician. MY pick to click here is “Frames.” Produced by John Vanderslice. www.debbieneigher.com
JOSH OTTUM- WATCH TV- TAPETE- Bland, boring singer-songwriter stuff. I tried, I really did. www.tapeterecords.com
PAPER ARROWS IN THE MORNING QUELL- Record #3 by this Windy City quartet who seem to be on their way (lots of good local, press). About half of the tunes have a good energy while the other half are lacking, if just a bit while vocalist Joe Goodkin sometimes is caught between a moan and a mumble. Still when it all comes together, like on “Smokes and Ash”, it’s pretty darn sweet. www.quellrecords.com
SLAM DUNK- THE SHIVERS- SELF RELEASED- Apparently these Victoria, BC dudes are real young but that doesn’t stop them from making one hell of a mature racket. OK, so it’s not really mature but they have a firm grasp on their sound, which is heavily-reverbed garage rock with in-your-face urgency and excellent songs. This is terrific, all 10 songs. www.slamdunkband.com
SMALL BROWN BIKE- FELL & FOUND- NO IDEA- More of that hard-hitting emo rock that the band did before their break up (in early 2004) and here they are back with 11 new songs. A bit cleaner in sound but no less forceful, especially in the drums. www.noidearecords.com
SOFT SCIENCE- HIGHS AND LOWS- TEST PATTERN- Terrific, sweet pop from the land of Sacramento, CA. Looking at the lineup it looks like the Levine Bros (from California Oranges and Holiday Flyer) and yes, vocalist Katie Haley is the former Katie Conley (of said bands as well). It’s got a shoegazey side to it but I doesn’t get bogged down in that genre an there’s hooks a plenty (it reminded me of LA band Fonda).. Excellent! www.testpatternrecords.com
SOMERDALE – BRIGHTER THAN BEFORE- ZIP- It looks like these cats hail from my native South Jersey and well, they do the Garden State proud with a solid, crunchy pop sound that mixes power and melody in a most righteous way. 12 solid tunes and a cover of The Left Banke’s ”Walk Away Renee.” Good on ya’. www.ziprecords.com
THE VACCINES- WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM THE VACCINES?- COLUMBIA- Like many of their UK counterparts, The Vaccines came in on a tidal wave of hype(as if they had a ton of cred beforehand or something) and, like others have said, they do seem to take bits and pieces from bands like The Libertines, Arctic Monkeys, Glasvegas, etc. They’ve got plenty of hooks and energy and all in all it’s not a bad listen. Let’s see where they go from here. www.columbiarecords.com
GEORGIO “THE DOVE” VALENTINIO- THE SORROWS OF YOUNG GEORGIO- SELF RELEASED- I enjoyed this guys previous cd (YOU BROUGHT KNIFE OT THE GUNFUIGHT) and now here is this 7 song ep (also released as a 10”). It’s cinematic, operatic and, at times , out there. The guy is following his own muse, that’s for sure. http://www.myspace.com/georgiothedovevalentino
WAGONS- RUMBLE, SHAKE AND TUMBLE- THIRTY TIGERS- If the folks on the cover of the cd are all in Henry Wagon’s band , well, he’s gonna be livin’ on rice and beans for a while. This is country and western with a decidedly American slant…only the band hails from Australia (they way Nick Cave would/does approach a country song). Took a while for this to stick but it finally has and it’s a rollicking good time. www.thirtytigers.com
THE WALK ONS- WE DID THIS ON PURPOSE- DRUG FRONT- 5 song ep of …I dunno, just regular rock. A bit of ‘tude but not enough to rev the engine. Not awful but nothing special. www.drugfrontrecords.com
WHITE ORANGE- S/T- ALIEN WIZARD- If you dig the 2-ton sounds of bands like Kyuss and Mastodon then this might be up your alley. I don’t so I don’t. www.myspace.com/whiteorangeband
WITCHES- FOREVER- BAKERY OUTLET- Athens, GA trio who play some melodic/crunchy indie rock that hearkens back to ther90’s. The band is led by the vocals/guitar of Cara Beth Satalino who has a unique, passionate wail that should be heard as she is a true talent. www.bakeryoutletrecords.com
WOODS - SUN AND SHADE- WOODSIST- Record #5 here isn’t quite as good as last years AT ECHO LAKE but heck, it’s still darn good. On the opener “Pushing Onlys” vocalist Jeremy Earl‘s still got the best falsetto in rock and he and his bandmates still are able to uniquely combine the last several decades o rock music and make it all sound interesting. . Take the trippy 10 minute track out (“Sol y Sombra”) and you’ve got a true friend. www.woodsist.com
SHORT REVIEW BY MR. JOSEPH KYLE
Arms & Sleepers: A Man, A Plan, A Canal: Panama: These dream-poppers are highly prolific, but what makes it even better is that they’re a rare group who can release tons of music, without a slip in quality. This EP is no exception, and though they’re still making pretty, instrumental mood music, there’s a definite upbeat, poppy vibe here, bordering on jazz and lounge, but pulling back. They indulge in a few Stereolab/Laika/Mouse on Mars moments, especially on “The Pedestrian,” but it’s never poor imitation. Their last few records have pointed towards a bold reinvention—here’s hoping they indulge those impulses. (Self-Released)
David Bazan—Strange Negotiations: Pedro the Lion dude who wrote some moving songs about faith, inner exploration, self, and one’s place in the world continues to turn his back on his faith, delving into rock music, and the cynicism towards the world in general means nothing because it can’t be heard over the mediocre, generic bar-rock he now specializes in. Wish him well on his journey, but he needs to try harder. (Barsuk Records)
Dengue Fever—This takes the element of world music, pop, and R&B in such a disappointing direction, one not last seen by this writer since that disappointing Zap Mama show I saw back in college, where they eschewed the wonderful world elements in order to be TLC, singing to prerecorded tapes. This feels just as fake, but it’s not for wont of talent, skills, or good qualities. Why do world-minded bands ruin themselves by trying to be mainstream R&B? Disappointing. (Concord)
Elsinore—Life Inside The Elephant: This four-track EP is the latest offering from Champaign/Urbana mood-rockers, and it’s a great leap forward from the band’s latest offering, Yes Yes Yes. These songs are dark, melancholy, and layered heavily with atmospherics. Two songs are “Chamber Mixes” which just means acoustic, and the remix of the title song is pretty awesome, too. (Self-Released)
Brian Eno-Drums Between the Bells: Shit sandwich masquerading as “modern” “experimental” “electronic” “music.” The only time it gets good is when he leaves the drum machines aside and shuts up the spoken word crap. (Warp)
Fruit Bats—Tripper: Okay, Eric Johnson (not to be confused with hard-rock guitar god from the 1980s) and company have always made pretty folk music, but this continues the band’s exploration of “Americana,” and by that I mean this is definitely “America”-esque. The music on Tripper is nice, but it lacks flare, and as a result sounds totally nondescript, which is a shame, because their previous record, The Ruminant Band, was ace. Ah well, it happens. (Sub Pop)
Grouplove—Never Trust a Happy Song: Trust me, I won’t. Who knew that Hard-Fi would inspire the future generations? I hope there is a special place in hell for Isaac Brock and Win Butler for inspiring such total mediocrity. (Canvasback/Atlantic)
Letting Up Despite Great Faults—Paper Crane: This EP by these So-Cal dream-poppers is pretty good, although the songs all possess a same-y feel that kind of makes it all blend together, and not in the best way. When they break out the guitars on “Teenage Tide,” things get better. You shouldn’t put two songs of the same tempo and instrumentation side by side at the beginning of your record. Variety, friends! It picks up at the end, in a good way. I’d listen to ‘em again. (Old Flame)
Qluster—Fragen: Hans-Joachim Roedelius has made music for the past 40 years, starting with Kluster, then Cluster, and now, yep, you got it, Qluster. This is a collaborative project with a young experimental artist by the name of Onnen Bock. If you know Roedelius’s history, then you know what this sounds like: dense electronic prog-rock instrumentals and ambient compositions. Don’t listen to this as individual pieces, listen to it as one long experimental movement, and get lost in the melllowwwwww (Bureau B)
Sea of Bees—“Gnomes/Don’t Fear the Reaper”: This 4-song EPcontains three songs, the title track, a remix of it, and two covers. “Gnomes” isn’t bad, with a lead singer that has one of those twee voices that sounds gothic simply because it sounds so gnarly. The remix, by wonderful psych-folkers Tunng, gives it a modern, spaced-out instrumental background, and it works a little bit better. The BoC cover is actually pretty rad; it’s upbeat and a country-rocker. Not much can (or should) be said about the other cover, a version of “With or Without You” that is maudlin and depressing. (Crossbill Records)
We Came as Romans—Understanding What We’ve Grown To Be: I hope one day that Cookie Monster gets really, really pissed off at people making fun of his voice and trying to sing like him in tandem with wussy emo singers singing sensitive songs that make Owl City look like John Holmes. I had high school kids play shit like this to me, only to make me cry, but not for the reasons they expected. (Equal Vision)
AUGUST 2011
BABY DEE- A BOOK OF SONGS FOR ANNE MARIE- DRAG CITY- A lovely collection of harp and piano tunes by this transgender performance artist (and former circus performer). Think Antony (of the Johnsons) and you’re in the ballpark. Not something I’d listen to everyday but certainly unique. www.dragcity.com
BASS DRUM OF DEATH- GB CITY- FAT POSSUM- Basically the work of one guy , John Barrett (live he has drummer) and the record is a stealthy mix of raunchy garage rock , 50’s pop and punk and the results are,….well, so trebly and in the red you’ll swear your stereo is broken, but is isn’t. After 4 songs I had to take a break, walk around the room take a cold shower and comer back to it. Like ALL good records should do. www.fatpossum.com
JACK BEAUREGARD THE MAGAZINES YOU READ- TAPETE- 2nd record from two Germans and neither is named Jack. Daniel and par create intoxicating pop music that is nearly impossible not to like. Cool harmonies and unique synth work. Go! www.tapeterecords.de
MAGGIE BJORKLUND- COMNG HOME- BLOODSHOT- Pedal steel player for Danish band The Darleens (I haven’t heard of them either) offering her first solo record. If it sounds like Calexico backing up Maggie well, that is essentially what it is. It has that dusty, southwest feel and some nice tunes too. www.bloodshotrecords.com
THE BLACK SWANS- DON’T BLAME THE STARS- MISRA- Record #4 by this Ohio band, led by Jerry Decicca, but this I the first one I’ve heard. The band has a melodic, breezy Americana sound with some nice pop hooks but deep, soul-searching lyrics (one of the band members, violinist Noel Sayre, died a few days after recording his part). I could have done without the 5 brief spoken word bits in between songs otherwise, this I a record well-worth delving into. www.misrarecords.com
EDWYN COLLINS- LOSING SLEEP – HEAVENLY- This is former Oranger Juice-er Collins first record since a stroke nearly killed him back in 2005. He gets help form famous chums like Johnny Marr and Roddy Framer as well as folks from Franz Ferdinand and others. Songs like “Losing Sleep”, “What is My Role?”, “Come Tomorrow, Come Today’ and “Do It Again’ all document his long recovery but still have plenty of bite and hooks too. A solid effort with some flat out great songs and further proof of this guy’s amazing spirit. www.heavenlyrecordings.com
CREEPING WEEDS- SEE THROUGH- SELF RELEASED- I could like this Philly 5-pieces music to that of Malkmus/Pavement and leave it at that but that would be selling them short. But this is a short review so let’s just say this band does the textured, hazy pop thing much better than so many others attempting it. www.creepingweeds.com
THE DAMNWELLS- NO ONE LISTENS TO THE BAND ANYMORE- POOR MAN/ PLEDGEMUSIC RECORDINGS- After a bad major label experience nearly derailed this band, now down to a duo, main songwriter Alex Dezen (here with bassist Ted Hudson) is still here and writing some of the best music of his career. Tight, tuneful pop songs that need to be heard by more people that will hear it but you can change that by YOU listening. www.thedamnwells.com
DET VACKRA LIVET- S/T- LABRADOR- This Swedish band (translation: The Beautiful Life) is made up of brother Philip and Henrik Ekstrom who were previously in the terrific Mary Onettes (and may still be). On here they sing in their native tongue but the music is just as grand and ambitious, bringing to mind icy masters like Echo & the Bunnymen and New Order and you can almost see the smoke machine spewing it’s magical spell. Terrific. www.labrador.se
EFREN- RISE ON UP AND MELT- SLO PRO- Georgia band who reminded me a bit of (another GA band) the Futurebirds but this isn’t as good (but it’s not bad, either). Downbeat Americana with REALLL Southern vocals, haunting at times (“Like a Coat”) and hazily trippy at others (“Like a Coat”). They even mention crawdads and that has gotta cvunt for something. Right?! www.efrenmusic.com
ROBERT ELLIS- PHOTOGRAPHS- NEW WEST- I had never heard of Ellis before but sounds like he’s been at it for a long time. This record id divided in 2 parts the first 5 songs are confessional folk while the other 5 songs are straight up country and he does both equally well. “Comin’ Home “ is a true gem here but honestly, There isn’t bad song on here. www.newwestrecords.com
THE MICHAEL J. EPSTEIN MEMORIAL LIBRARY- VOLUME 1- SELF RELEASED- Yes, there is someone named Michael J. Epstein in this band and he ,along with several women on an assortment of stringed and woodwind instruments created nifty little pop record here complete with gorgeous melodies and top-flite tunes, too. Like if the Magnetic Fields were folkier. Nice. www.michaeljepstein.com
FINK- PERFECT DARKNESS- NINJA TUNE- UK singer/songwriter Fin Greenall offers up 10 songs of acoustic tunes with mostly finger-picked acoustic guitars and his deep, brooding croon. At times it reminded me of Nick Drake but this is not nearly as compelling as that. Not bad, an ep would have been a better idea.
FISHBOY CLASSIC CREEPS SELF RELEASED- Eric Michener and his wacked pals are back with another Fishboy record. This one I a concept record only I’m not sure what the concept is..i know all of the songs begin with the letter A but I believe it goes beyond that. Never mind that Michener sounds vocalist like a happier/saner (?!) John Darnielle, the guy is a terrific pop song writer as the arrangement on here are truly inspired (and it could have come from no other place than Athens, GA). www.myspace.com/fishboy
SARAH ELIZABETH FOSTER- TAKE ME FOR A RIDE- STUDIO SARAH- Pop/rock with a flair for 60/s/70’s arrangements. This Texan has a booming voice that has some real soul to it. Not always my bag but done well. www.sarahelizabethfoster.com
NIK FRIETAS- SATURDAY NIGHT UNDERWATER- LITTLE RECORD COMPANY- Record #5 by this former Thrasher photog. Frietas is a talented pop tunesmith who , I believe, plays everything on here. The songs are good and you really want them to be great, but they rarely are. Still, not a bad listen. www.littlerecordcompany.com
BILL GOULD/ JARED BLUM- THE TALKING BOOK- KOOLARROW- What is apparently the first in a series of ambient/drone records form Gould (former guitarist for Faith No More) and Blum (not sure who he is. An acquired taste, for sure. www.koolarrow.com
THE GREENCARDS- THE BRICK ALBUM- DARLING STREET- Austin, TX trio (originally 2 gals form Australia) with a fiddler and they call it bluegrass (or newgrass, sorry). I didn’t like the opening cut but loved #2, “Faded’ with its gorgeous harmonies and the pretty acoustic tune “Naked on the River.” When I give stuff like this a chance I usually end up liking it and I’ll bet live they’re hoot (even if it might be a Bonnaroo type crowd). www.thegreencards.com
THE HORROR THE HORROR WILDERNESS – TAPETE- 5 Swedes who wear their influences on their sleeves and in this case it’s the sound of the city, NYVC that is. I hear some Strokes here, a touch of Talking Heads there and even some Dolls swagger. This would get ‘em grooving at a party. Not me but them. www.tapeterecords.de
LOVE BOAT- LOVE IS GONE- ALIEN SNATCH- 2nd record (or 2nd one I have, anyway) but this spunky Italian trio who mix elements of rock, pop, folk and garage into an intoxicating stew, to say the least. I really dig the last one and this is just as good, if not better. “My Cousin’s Place” is my fave song this day/week/month Music for your next bbq, for sure . www.aliensnatch.de
JARED MEES & THE GROWN CHILDREN- ONLY GOOD THOUGHTS CAN STAY- TENDER LOVING EMPIRE- Portland bunch led by, you guessed it, Jared Mees. The songs slowly unfold into pop songs but these are layered and intricate. They remind me a bit of Okkervil River (high praise indeed). Jump on this bandwagon now. www.tenderlovingempire.com
MICKEY- ROCK N ROLL DREAMER- HOZAC- More of the good stuff from the Hozac label. This 5-some, all with fake names, kicks up a seriously fun, stutter-step rock melding 50’s rock, 60’sd bubblegum and 70’s glam. You’re not required to wear you patched-up denim jacket but you are required to have a smile on your face and a lighter in the air,. You can do that, right? www.hozacrecords.com
THE POPPEES- POP GOES THE ANTHOLOGY- BOMP- 1970’s NYC power pop band (think Big Star but more Beatlee-esque) who I had never heard of before. This comp. collected 18 songs including their Bomp single, some demos and live stuff. When I say Beatle-esque I mean it (but in a good way) www.bomprecords.com
SCUMBAG PHILOSOPHER- IT MEANS NOTHING SO IT MEANS NOTHING- WORDS ON MUSIC- UK bunch who go for the whole Fall/ Gang of Four route with scattershot, raking guitar, ranting vocals and chop shop rhythms. Musically I really like it but then vocals get to me (I only like this kind of stuff, vocally, if Mark E. Smith is on then mic). www.words-on-music.com
SHOULD- LIKE A FIRE WITHOUT SOUND- WORDS ON MUSIC- Recorded over a 5 year period in Baltimore, this is the 3rd record by Marc Ostermeier shows the band still creating spare, at times haunting sound that owes a debt to Brian Eno (and reminded me of Low and Yo La Tengo, as well). My pick to click here is the gorgeous “Just Not Today.” www.words-on-music.com
THE SOUND OF GROWING UP- DRIFTING- SELF RELEASED- Bouncy pop rock in the vein of Fountains of Wayne. Nice trumpet blasts on “Swing” while the title track was a bit folky. Not bad. www.thesoundofgrowingup.com
THE SOUNDS- SOMETHING TO DIE FOR- SIDEONEDUMMY- Electro pop rock form this Swedish quartet and the only thing that surprises me is that it’s on the Side One Dummy label, one known more for punk rock. This times it’s more pulsing dance rock than glossy synth pop and that’s ok, they do it well and all they really wanna do is get you shaking your ass. So there. www.sideonedummy.com
SOUTHEAST ENGINE- CANARY- MISTA- This Athens, OH band has created quite a lovely record here. A concept record (regarding a family during the Great Depression) with elements of Appalachian folk their hearts are in the right place and it comes through in the warmth of the songs. www.misrarecords.com
SUGARPLUM FAIRIES- THE IMAGES WE GET- STARFISH- This terrific band is comprised of 2 Austrian natives (Silvia and Ben, she sings and he plays) who live in L.A. They have been creating their druggy, Mazzy Star-ish music for over a decade and they keep getting better. This is my fave of their batch of records. Start with the drowsy opener “Waves” then go on to “Plastic Sky” and please continue. www.sugarplumfairies.com
THROUGH THE SPARKS- ALMANAC (MMX) YEAR OF BEASTS- SKYBUCKET- I really enjoyed this band’s debut record, LAZARUS BEACH (2007) but not sure I heard the 2nd one. This ((3rd) is 12 song record is a collection of singles released one per month in 2010. The band are on their own trip and do a fine job mixing Americana with psych rock and on a lot of the songs they remind me of Lambchop (another band who can by joyfully unpredictable). See you on the other side. www.skybucket.com
THE TWO KOREAS SCIENCE ISLAND – RANDY VICAR RECORDSLAST GANG- Canadian bunch with 3 rock critics in the band. If you’re expecting something cerebral (and beardy) forget it, these guys hammer away with a discordant attack (but more melodic that you’d think). I hear bits of The Fall, Sonic Youth, Versus, etc. You get the picture. Well done. www.thetwokoreas.ca
THE TWO MAN GENTLEMEN BAND LIVE IN NEW YORK! – SERIOUS BUSINESS- Andy and Fuller are the T.T.M.G.B. He sings and plays guitar and banjo while Fuller plays the string bass (and sings too). Songs like “Let’s Make a Sandwich”, “I’ve Been Drinking” and “Corn Liquor” are engaging and I’ll bet this (or any) live gig are a hoot. www.seriousbusinessrecords.com
THE TWO MAN GENTLEMEN BAND DOS AMIGOS UNA FIESTA! – SERIOUS BUINESS RCORDS- More of the same (see the above review) only not a live record and on here they’ve added Brian Kantor on drums. Zippty doo dah rock to the max. www.seriousbusinessrecords.com
DAVID VERTESI CARDIOGRAPHY- FILE UNDER MUSIC- Nice collection of low-key, heartfelt pop tunes from the bassist for Canadian funk band Hey Ocean! (thankfully no folk here). The playing is confident and assured sand the lyrics seems to deal mostly with love both lost and found. www.fileundermusic.com
YOUR GRACIOUS HOST SLEEPERS AWAKEN- SELF RELEASED- Michigan bunch led by pop afficianado Tom Curless. On this , the band’s 3rd record, they seem to do what they did on their first 2 (only better),. That is create chiming, jangly pop songs with excellent playing and hooks a plenty. Usually in a Teenage Fan Club vein and well worth checking out. www.myspace.com/gracioushost
SHORT REVIEWS BY JOSEPH KYLE
A Lull: Confetti Reprise EP -- These Chicago-based folk/art rockers may conjure up similarities to Animal Collective, but that's okay, because these guys are pretty good and don't sound so hippie. This little EP is a collection of four songs that were left off their impressive debut album, Confetti. They're not that radically different than the album cuts, but are far from leftovers. It's an enjoyable intro to the band for those not familiar, and those that are will enjoy hearing these extras. www.mushrecords.com
Aidan Baker: Still Life--Why is it that when, in rock music, we talk about an artist making a "dramatic departure," it always means "jazz?" Aidan Baker has made some awesome, inspiring drone and noise records, but here, he goes for the piano, drum-kit, martini bar, Bill Evans route. Not sure what to make of it, but I think I like it, in part for Baker's bravery to do something different. (Self Released)
Barn Owl: Shadowland--This three-song EP is a prelude to a full-length coming this fall, and all I have to say is...bring it on! These three little numbers are haunting, mysterious, and beautiful; they give the impression that something is watching you from the forest. Well, something is, but it ain't telling; the owls are not what they seem. There's a rustic feel to the whole thing, while feeling oddly futuristic. Epic. Compelling. www.thrilljockey.com
Dave Cloud and the Gospel of Power: Practice in the Milky Way -- Never heard this guy. He's heard records by Nick Cave, Johnny Cash, and Captain Beefheart. This is blues-rock indie-rock bar-rock that is big in Nashville, apparently. Or maybe it isn't. I hope Lou Barlow's lawyers hear "On the Rebound," but no the other hand, Barlow's pay-day might not be that great. www.firerecords.com
Coldplay: "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall" c/w "Major Minus" -- You either love or hate Coldplay, and though they can be kind of annoying musically, they do have their moments, and this is one of 'em. These two songs make me wonder if they've just discovered the joys that were Madchester. "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall" is a great, upbeat tune, perhaps the close they've ever come to a dance number, while "Major Minus" has a Stone Roses groove. Heck, the single's artwork looks like the work of Central Station, the folk who made the iconic Happy Mondays art. And the video? Also trippy, and baggy. Interesting to see where this direction takes them. (Capitol Records)
Crisis of Conformity: "Fist Fight!"/"Kick it Down and Kick It Around" == Not much is known about this long-lost mid-80s hardcore punk band, except that they kind of sound like Black Flag meets Circle Jerks meets Scream meets Trenchmouth, but not in any kind of way. "Fist Fight!" has political lyrics and a DC-style bent, and the B-Side is brief, but utterly catchy. Wonder what happened to these dudes. www.dragcity.com
Eternal Tapestry & Sun Araw--Night Galleries: This record, with its title taken for the late-period Rod Serling production, is the recorded document of the two bands coming together on-stage during South by Southwest. If you're familiar with either group, you know that they make loud, psychedelic noise that's menacing and ominous and compellingly beautiful. That's the case here, with the band making soft noise that works up into loud, almost metal-sounding riffing--and then back down to earth for a beautiful, sublime close. Probably more enjoyable than being in the room, this. www.thrilljockey.com
The Night Marchers: "Thar She Blows" c/w "All Hits" -- Speedo from Rocket From the Crypt and his buddies doin' their thang, of swaggering, staggering, neck-stabbing SoCal rock. The A-side is a fast-paced little affair, while the flip keeps up the tempo. A little glammy, a little punky, a little garage-y, but ALL fun. www.swamirecords.com
Polvo: "Heavy Detour"/"Anchoress": I swear to heck that the intro to "Heavy Detour" sounded like a rip-off of Pink Floyd's The Wall, and the rest of the song does, too, in its own weird way. "Anchoress," the b-side, is, well, a b-side that sounds like Povlo. www.mergerecords.com
Sic Alps--Breadhead: Another band who released a pretty good record this year follows it up with an equally great single. Two of these songs are minute-long lo-fi blasts of mellowness and noise, while the title song is a mellow rocker, and "Can't You See" is a raw, Stones-like rocker that deserves to be more than a b-side. Great stuff! www.dragcity.com
Jon Spencer Blues Explosion/Melvins-- "Black Betty" Two veteran bands do a cover of Leadbelly. To be correct, though, Jon Spencer's take is more a cover of Ram Jam's cover of Leadbelly. The Melvins' take is, well, it's the Melvins. Make of that what you will, but its metal tempo...well... www.amphetaminereptile.com
Woods: "Find Them Empty" c/w "Be There" -- These guys have impressed with their latest album, Sun and Shade, mixing falsettos and jams with some of the best 60s music since the 1960s. This little document is much more the same; "Find Them Empty" features loud, abrasive guitars, and slightly buried vocals, while the flip is a mellow, acoustic drone jam. Good stuff, this. www.sacredbonesrecords.com
JULY 2011
AMERICANS IN FRANCE- CRAWLING- ODESSA- I’m not sure why this cd wouldn’t play in my player but it wouldn’t . Still though, it is on the Odessa label and they usually release good records so check this out. www.odessarecords.com
CHOP CHOP- THE SPARK- ARCH ENEMY- 9 songs by one gal, Catherine Cavanagh, who records under the name Chop Chop. THE SPARK is decent synth pop with haunting female vocals but not a lto here got me going. www.archenemy.com
CITY CENTER- REDEEMER- K- This is yet another musical project from Fred Thomas, (Saturday Looks Good to Me, etc.) and this band is his sort of electronic band (think Atlas Sound). I do prefer SLGTM but as always Thomas does unique things with whatever instruments he has at hand. “Obvious” is gorgeous as are a few others. All hail Saint Fred. www.krecs.com
COASTWEST UNREST- OLD WEIRD AMERICA- RECLAIM- This band is a trio but it appears that Noah Dickie plays nearly everything (his brother Josh is on percussion and Alex Barnes is on violin). This is a nice mix of Appalachian folk/blues, reminded me a bit of the more rustic Okkervil River gunk. Bring it! www.reclaimrecords.com
COMMUNIPAW- BIG BLUE- SELF RELEASED- Indie folk band from , where else., my native NJ. New Brunswick to be exact but they aren’t doing the Gaslight Anthem thing. This is more in the Nada Surf vein with decent to very good melodies and good songwriting. “If You Con Back?” was my pick to click. www.communipawmusic.com
FOLKLORE – HOME CHURCH ROAD- SINGLE GIRL MARRIED GIRL- If you are thinking some gentle folk hymns well, you are partly correct. There are some of those but then some cranked up punk gunk and wacked all-over-the-map noise too. I hear a Neutral Milk Hotel influence but these guys have good songs too (unlike some NMH disciples who are too out there…..check out “A Few Years Forward”). www.fairmountfair.com
TORBEN FREYTAG- LIFE AS IT IS- ZIP- Former leader of Swedish popsters Dorian Gray on here he collects 16 tunes from the decade that was 2000- 2010. No lack of melody on this one in fact it is making me look and see if I still have my D.G. cd. Classy. www.ziprecords.com
HELLO MORNING- A FICTION- SELF RELEASED- A Portland band (who I’d previously never heard of) going for a big sound. Taking cues from bands like U2 and Coldplay (with a dash of hazy psych in there) . These 8 songs weren’t my bag (a bit too slick) but hey, they seem to know what they like and that’s ok. www.hellomorningband.com
K- HOLES- S/T- HOZAC- Former Black Lips guys Jack Hines leaves Atlanta for NYC, hires a saxophonist and a nutso drummer and voila! K-Holes are born. This is beautiful/ugly music that wouldn’t sound out of place on a busted turntable with the Pissed Jeans records. You’ve been warned. www.hozacrecords.com
LOHIO- FAMILY TREE ep- SELF RELEASED- 2nd ep from this Pittsburgh, PA based quartet. Only 5 songs but there’s some real ice gunk on here. Humming melodicism, like if Sufjan Stevens fronted a band that was a bit poppier and not as pretentious. The title track is my fave here. www.lohiomusic.com
LOVE INKS- E.S.P.- CITY SLANG- Trio of gals who call Austin home and do a nifty take on chill wave. They’ve got a busy drum machine and Sherry LeBlanc’s vocals make my day on some days. Really. www.cityslang.co,
METAL MOTHER – BONFIRE DIARIES- MM is the brainchild of CA-based chanteuse/composer Tara Tati. The album was mixed by Jeremy Black (Apollo Sunshine). You can hear Tati’s fixation on sci-fi and arcane lore in her little-girlish voice and piano-based songs. She’d probably be a good tour mate for Coco Rosie. And she has a video up, for “Shake,” with pretty colors, primal imagery, and, uh, practically NAKED people, Beavis (heh, heh). www.metalmothermusic.com MARY LEARY
THE MORNINGBIRDS- THE QUICKENING- SELF RELEASED- The duo of Jennifer and Samuel make up this folky duo who do everything from gentle folk pop (not band) to what sounded like reggae (ugh). They cram 22 songs on here so there is a lot to choose form. www.themorningbirds.com
PHINEAS AND THE LONELY LEAVES- THE KIDS WE USED TO BE- SELF RELEASED- There is no one named Phineas in the band and the leader’s name is Tim Feeney but the songwriting is strong. Autumnal tunes with lots of piano and melody. For fans of Ryan Adams or the prettier Okkervil River stuff. Nice. www.lonelyleaves.com
RAVISHERS S/T – SELF RELEASED- Portland band formerly known as Dominic Castillo and the Rock Savants, the new name is better and Dominic and his pals have some serious talent. Unique, sideways pop songs with a few electronic flourishes here and there. Not sure why these guys don’t have a label. www.ravisherstheband.com
RICK RIZZO AND TARA KEY- DOUBLE STAR- THRILL JOCKEY- This is the 2nd collaborative effort form Eleventh Dream Day’s Rizzo and Antietam’s Tara Key. 14 instrumental tracks that mixes electric and acoustic guitars and electronics and while I am generally not a fan of experimental instrumental work this totally works because the two parties involved are so talented. Give it a whirl or ten. www.thrilljockey.com
ROSETTA WEST- RACCOON- SELF RELEASED- “A psych/blue trio from Illinois.” That’s all you really need to know. rosettawest@aol.com
SCARLET SEASON- THE TAXIDERMIST- Here’s what’s on the Fanatic site (Paron’s promotion) re: Scarlet Season: “Pop needn't be fluffy, and can be catchy without being insipid. The new project from Seattle artist Aileen Paron takes a song-centric pop-rock approach and infuses it with a dark, cinematic, neo-synth edge and gothic roots.” What I say: That sounds more or less like what I hear. If you love Bjork and/or Tori Amos it could be right up your alley. www.myspace.com/scarletseasonmusic MARY LEARY
SHARKS- THE JOYS OF LIVING 2008-2010-RISE- Young, UK quartet who have apparently done a few tours with the Gaslight Anthem (who they remind me a little of). This is a compilation of 3 eps and I must say, the songwriting is strong and not what I was expecting. Tough, punchy rock in The Clash vein and good songs, too. www.riserecords.com
SHIPBUILDING CO.- RADIOS AND FLYING BIRDS- GREYDAY- Though it sounds like the name of a full band , this is the work of one guy, Michael Partington (who was in Head of Femur). He plays everything and some of it sounds whimsical like an old Flying Nun band (like on “Shanghai Magley Train”) and other times like the Beatles at their most whimsical. Well done. www.greydayrecords.com
LAURA STEVENSON AND THE CANS- SIT RESIST- DON GIOVANNI- This is the same L.S. who was in Bomb the Music Industry! Here she is with a full cast of talented musicians doing folk pop with unique arrangements and here even more unique voice. Don’t let this one slip by. www.dongiovannirecords.com
STORMS- LAY YOUR SEA COAT ASIDE- ART UNION- This is Lori from the Too Pure band Seely and a pal doing some hypnotic, psychedelic folk rock that is occasionally trance inducing. Not totally unlike what Jose Gonzales is doing and whole it gets a bit too out there at times they usually bring it back to reality and keep the groove. www.wearestorms.com
STREET CHANT- MEANS- ARCH HILL- Part melodic/ part raging New Zealand trio who weave a cool spell with murky rhythms, dissonant guitars and far off vocals to create and enchanting stew. Not as noisy as Surf City but almost a unique. www.archhill.com.nz
THAT GHOST- SONGS OUT HERE- TWO SYLLABLE- Apparently the work of a youngster Ryan Schmale who hails from my former adopted hometown (Santa Rosa, CA). He’ recorded lots of stuff and this is his 2nd proper full length. Echoey/reverby bedroom folk with some sneaky melodies. Reminded me a bit of Sparklehorse. Worth some listens. www.twosyllablerecords.com
THIS WILL DESTROY YOU TUNNEL BLANKET- SUICIDE SQUEEZE- 2nd full-length from this Texas quartet who do not want to be called post rock (you might get hurt if you call them it). 8 tunes that mode at a snail’s pace but weave intricate layers of ambient bliss. The opening tune is over 12 minutes long. See if you can hang. www.myspace.com/suicidesqueezerecords
TRIUMPH OF LETHARGY SKINNED ALIVE TO DEATH- SOME OF THIDS ARE IN THIS TOGETHER- DONLT STOP BELIEVIN- This is Spencer Moody’s (ex- Murder City Devils) new band. Well , not really new because this is their 6th full length. They are the modern day equivalent of Flipper. Yup. www.myspace.com/tolsatd
VIRGIN ISLANDS- ERNIE CHAMBERS V. GOD- THE CONTROL GROUP- Gritty Seattle post punk band with prickly guitars and even pricklier vocals. They are good at what they do just not mah thang. Funny story ion how they titled their record, though. www.thecontrolgroup.com
WILDILDLIFE -GIVE IN TO LIVE- VOLCOM- Psychedelic sludge rock. Sounds great, huh? Music to kill yourself to. www.volcom.com
WOLF RAM HEART- BETRAYAL OF HEARTS- SOVEREIGN STATES- Dark, moody psychedelic pop from this Ohio four piece. The music does take some surprisingly melodic turns so it is not all doom and gloom. Still though ,the songs are well written and even had a Flying Nun vibe at times (think The Chills LOST ep). Nice. www.wolframheart.com
SHORT REVIEWS BY……Kidd Oblivion
He tells you the truth…
ALMOST FREE – IN/OUT – SELF – Anthemic emo-pop a la U2, Phoenix, Wolf Parade and the new Strokes record with some of the worst prog-noodle guitar solo’ing I’ve ever heard.
BABY BABY – MONEY – GOSPEL OF RHYTHM – I’ll give you $50 if you can find 4 bigger dorks with less musical ability than these clowns. This is totally sophomoric, amateur bullshit fronted by some idiot who refers to himself as “Fontez Swaggasaurus” and thanks his penis in the liner notes. Serious dipshit A-holes.
BABY TEARDROPS – X IS FOR LOVE – SELF – Try to imagine the Proclaimers trying to be Fugazi trying to cover Devo. Yeah, you work on that ‘sound-image’ while I throw this disc against the wall. Also: this is further proof that there will never be another good band from Manhattan ever again.
BIG SCARY – FOUR SEASONS – INDEPENDENT – A more schizophrenic band you will nary be able to find. From M. Ward to Radiohead one moment and from Howe Gelb to Aeriel M the next, this collection of EP’s is all over the place. (Btw: There’s a heavy dose of Lou Barlow & Win Butler in here as well…) That said, it did manage to hold my attention and be reasonably entertaining.
BIG TROUBLE – 20 YEARS AND A MILLION BEERS AGO – SELF – Hair metal. From Atlanta. Album title says it all. Dear Tim (editor): Blow me.
BLANK DOGS – COLLECTED BY ITSELF – CAPTURED TRACKS – The jerk from this band should look up Arto Lindsay & Suicide and give them some of his money because the ‘Dogs are merely recycling their circa ’80 No-Wave spew – albeit sufficiently watered down by the Blanks’ love of Erasure, Human League and New Order.
THE BOOZE – AT MAXIMUM VOLUME – UNDERRATED – Homogenized cock-rock that has been done to death, revived, done to death again and is now being regurgitated by bands like this. Please stop.
GREG BROWN – THEN LIGHTNING STRIKES TWICE – YEP ROC – Because this guy once owned a record label and was also the musical director for NPR’s Prairie Home Companion radio program, he gets to make his own flaccid roots-rock record for Yep Roc. (I know that’s redundant, shut up.) Furthermore, he gets to have it impeccably recorded at famed Ardent studios in Memphis while bands that would blow his ass outta the water (like Philadelphia’s Bloodfeathers) toil in obscurity. It just ain’t fair people, it just ain’t fair…
DAN CIOPER – WARRIOR UTOPIAN – SELF – This guy should be fucking ashamed of himself. Let’s start with his “headshot” on the album cover - red John Lennon glasses, with scarf & a bucket hat? Seriously? Who told you that looked good? Then there’s the music: self-described as “multi-dimensional, radical folk-rock with a contemporary message.” Really? Radical folk-rock? And what’s yr message exactly? That “even the boring and talentless get to make records because they can afford it”? Are you fucking kidding me? What a coddled, self-indulgent fucking momma’s boy.
COFFEE PROJECT – MOVED ON – SELF – Dear Coffee Project: The happy-go-lucky, acoustic singer/songwriter days of the hacky-sack 90’s are over, so please stop doing this OR move to either Baltimore, MD or Ashville, NC where this behavior is still accepted for some reason.
THE DAGONS – UPON THE DULL EARTH – DEAD SEA CAPTAIN – The following lines come direct from the one-sheet: “Their name is one of their many references to mythology, fairy tales and the ocean.” “Their distinctive sound is raw music with a dark and haunting sheen.” (what!?) “Their most recent recordings have been adding an odd and nightmarish Indian sitar to an already potent brew.” I mean, do I need to even say anything? I think you get the picture.
DAMNGIVERS – S/T – SELF – Mediocre Eagles rip-off or middling alt-country gasp at best. A 4 year old could tell you that this is a half-hearted re-hash of what was originally an impersonation.
DAVILA 666 – TAN BAJO – IN THE RED – A Puerto Rican version of Kid Congo Powers fronting the 3 for 10’s recorded through a tin can, all in Spanish. Totally fucking awesome!
DEEP SLEEP – TURN ME OFF – GRAVE MISTAKE – Stand-up new hardcore that got almost every single thing right! The songs are solid, the artwork’s cool and the drummer has the phrase “fun fun fun” tattooed across his neck! The vocals could be a little higher in the mix, but otherwise this hits the bull’s-eye. They should tour with OFF!
DOPAMINES – EXPECT THE WORST – PAPER & PLASTIK – Good anthemic, buzz-saw punk a la the Points or Something Fierce that has great energy and melodies. My only complaints are that it’s a bit over-produced and the one-trick pony guitar sound is a bit of a let-down.
FATBACK CIRCUS – S/T – SELF – You seriously named your band Fatback Circus? What a bunch of hammerheads. Oh, wait, they’re on the Warped Tour – now it makes sense. Are you sad that the guy from Jackass died? Awww.
GIRL PROBLEMS – DEBUT – SELF – GP is 1 part dance-y pop, 1 part suburban mall hip-hop that, to the untrained ear, could come off as modern baroque or even clever - in a YouTube kind of way. The truth is that it’s just fucking stupid. In other news: Fuck Pro Tools and everyone who bought it.
GLORIE – S/T – MAKESHIFT – Beautifully recorded and orchestrated collection of instrumentals here that reminded me of the best parts of the Mercury Program, Pell Mell, Japancakes and Friends of Dean Martinez. Really nice folks.
THE HEAD AND THE HEART – S/T – SUB POP – Imagine if the Fleet Foxes had little brothers and sisters that started a band too – except they were more innocent, energetic and preferred ELO over Simon & Garfunkel. That’s this band.
JOAN OF ARC – LIFE LIKE – POLYVINYL – Wtf!? These guys are a band again? It must be them ‘cuz it sounds like 1998 math-rock in here – complete with all of the squiggly guitars and herky-jerk drum parts. I was really glad when this fad passed so I’m not really thrilled that it’s back. Ps: No girls will ever like this music or go to these shows. Ever.
KNIFE THE SYMPHONY/LKN – SPLIT EP – CARGO – Nice, rocking split EP here, although KTS totally steal the show with more of their angular, Dischord-ish fury which is both abrasive and enjoyable at the same time. It was also nice to see that they included my previous review of them in their press kit – these fellas are obviously very smart, savvy and well traveled.
JESSE MANLEY – DEVIL’S RED – SELF – The thing is that - I’m pretty broke, see? So, I have a 10 year old computer that barely works – least of all the disc drive. Subsequently, I rely on my circa 1996 cd player to do my work with and said cd player refused to play this disc no matter how many times I tried. So, sorry. Then again, maybe it knows something I don’t…
THE MEASURE – NOTES – NO IDEA – This is a real nice blast of razor sharp punk straight outta the sketchy, fraternity-ghetto of New Brunswick, NJ. Unfortunately, they released this and them immediately broke up so… Nothing to see here folks, move along…
MEAT PUPPETS – LOLLIPOP – MEGAFORCE – It seems fitting that this latest pile offered up by the ‘Puppets was made at Discmakers. Oh, how the mighty have fallen… And check out Kirkwood in his flip-flops on the inside cover! There’s a man who has given up. Jeez Louise. What the hell happened to this band? Just depressing…
JAMES PANTS – S/T – STONES THROW – I actually owe JP a big “thank you” for helping me out. See, I wrote this on a Monday, after a long weekend of drinking wine and eating a lot of heavy food, so I was feeling pretty “plugged up” as they say. Well, I’ll tell ya, I put this cd on and was immediately moved – straight into the bathroom! His music was somehow inspirational to my bowels! The more it played, the more relief I felt! And I am forever indebted. So, thank you James Pants, from the bottom of my colon.
SASSY – DIGGIN DEEP – GOOD TROUBLE – Nice ladies! This female duo stomps through 13 tracks on this debut, which is a nice mix of punk, rock-a-billy and 50’s rock-n-roll. It’s no frills with no solos – just loud, catchy guitar and drums with 2 part harmonies and no bullshit. Definitely sassy.
SCARLET SEASON – THE TAXIDERMIST – SELF – Whiny, brooding girl music unworthy even of the Lilith Fair. What a complainer. Buy a dildo already, Jesus…
SELDON PLAN – COALIZONE DEL VOLERE – THE BEECHFIELDS – This is a really nice retro indie-rock offering from the SP who I’ve enjoyed in the past. A smattering of Sonny Sixkiller, Buddy Sevaris, Grand Champeen and Sugar can be heard echoing throughout this record along with solid vocal harmonies and guitar tones. Grade: B+
SKYBOMBERS – BLACK CAROUSEL – 429 – Alright, now this is the type of record that Steve Wynn should be making instead of doing corny songs about baseball with that old, Jerry Garcia look-a-like Scott McCaughey. The ‘Bombers bring some straight-up melodic, well-crafted indie-rock complete with hooks and harmonies to the table for you. Yet another great fledgling band from the continent of Australia…
STARFUCKER – REPTILIANS – POLYVINYL – Typical Polyvinyl indie-disco for hipsters who wear filthy $250 jeans but can’t pay the electric bill or bother to get out of your way on the sidewalk.
STOCKHOLM SYNDROME – APOLLO – RESPONSE – Here are a few things that piss me off about Stockholm Syndrome: 1. They’re totally faking it. 2. They each have their own publishing companies. 3. They each have their own thanks lists in the liner notes. 4. They each have instrument endorsement deals explicitly laid out in the liner notes. 5. Their played, disconnected band name. They are whores – do not buy their records.
SWEAR JAR – CUSS – PHRATRY – Here are a few things that I really like about Swear Jar: 1. Great band name. 2. They are serious, but don’t take themselves too seriously. 3. Their record was recorded in their practice space to a tape machine. 4. They have a song called “Rastallica.” 5. They obviously love the Minutemen, Pere Ubu, Wire and the gang of 4. These cats are alright! Check ‘em out dammit!
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS – JOIN US – IDLEWILD – Every song on this record sounds like a TV theme song or bed-music for a show on HGTV, which is probably the highest compliment I could pay them because that is what they do.
THOSE DANCING DAYS – DAYDREAMS AND NIGHTMARES – WITCHITA – Over-produced, commercial pop made specifically to sell products to pre-teens. Sickening.
THE UNITED SONS OF TOIL – WHEN THE REVOLUTION COMES EVERYTHING WILL BE BEAUTIFUL – CARGO – Start/stop No-wave songs about world history, social injustices and politics with lots and lots of screaming. I’ll pass, thanks.
JUNE 2011
A CAT CALLED CRICKET- WHEN LEAVES FALL- THE BEECHFIELDS- Only two songs here and the first one, “Atlas” is good but not great but the title track is a nice pop tune with plenty of cello and a teeth-sinking hook. Check out other stuff on the label, too. www.thebeechfields.com
BITERS- ALL CHEWED UP- UNDERRATED- This is the 3rd ep by this fine Atlanta band that I have received and this one, like the others, is chock full of searing, chunky power pop. Think Cheap Trick (or the Exploding Hearts) with plenty of hooks and a sneering attitude. They can sneer but they have the songs to back it up. 7 songs. www.underratedrecords.com
CAROL BUI- RED SHIP- EX OH- Cascading , emotional rock from this Tacoma, WA woman. This is her third record and experts say it’s their best but i never heard the first two. There’s been a few PJ Harvey comparisons and I’d say that’s accurate. I didn’t really like her voice and I’m not sure why. www.exohrecords.com
CARDINAL FAMILY SINGERS- THIS IS WHAT WE DO- NC RECORDS- As I read , two guys, Norwood and Peyton left their home of North Carolina and found themselves in Los Angeles. I was expecting something spare and folky but this is upbeat and poppy with nice melodies, tight rhythms and upfront vocals. The song called “Melody” is full of it (melody that is). www.cardinalfamilysingers.com
COLUMBOID- WE WERE ONE- LA SOCIETE EXPEDITIONNAIRE- Moody art rock from a NYC trio where it’s all a clashing of tribal drums, dark synths and moody vocals. At time likes if Ian Curtis sang for Suicide, but not that good. Not my bag but someone’s. www.la-soc.com
CRAWL BABIES- TANGLES- SELF RELEASED- I think this is an American band who want to be Scottish. Some of this really reminds me of The Pastels (in a good way). Cascading loping, melodic pop that wormed its way into my heart. www.crawlbabies.bandcamp.com
DIRTY GOLD- ROAR- AUTUMN TONE- Only 5 songs here by this San Diego trio but it’s promising. I hear some elements of the worldly passions of say Vampire Weekend along with the trippy dreaminess of Beach House. My favorite song is “Sea Hare” but it’s pretty solid all the way around. www.autumntone.com
THE EX- CATCH MY SHOE- EX RECORDS- Dutch politico punks who have been at tit for 30 years (this is their 25th record). This is the first one that doesn’t feature founder/leader GW Sok and suffers a bit because of it. New vocalist Arnold DeBoer isn’t bad and musically they’re still a tornado of ideas but there are better records by them out there (like ‘89’s JOGGERS AND SMOGGERS). www.theex.nl
FIVE EIGHT- YOUR GOD IS DEAD TO ME NOW- IRON HORSE- Athens, GA squad who have been at it for over 2 decades (I had no idea). This is their 7th record and it is mid-tempo rock played with passion but I only thought the songs were ok. I’ll be they kill it live. www.ironhorserecords.com
GWYNETH + MONKO- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Gentle, rolling duo who create some enchanting folk pop. She sings and he plays (guitar, pedal steel, mandolin, etc.) she has a real silky, smooth voice, at times bringing to mind, Neko Case and Iris Dement. A pleasant surprise to say the least. www.gwynethandmonko.com
HIGH HORSE- S/T- HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL- Arizona trio with their debut 7-song cd (also released as a 10”) and this is energetic indie rock with shouty vocals and snakey guitar lines. Sounds like a Pavement (and Built to Spill) influence which is fine by me. Good start fellas. www.highschoolrockfiesta.com
I WAS TOTALLY DESTORYING IT- PRELUDES- GREDAY- 3rd record by this Chapel Hill, NC bunch led by a few folks who were in Sorry About Dresden. It’s easy to be annoyed by the band name but they do occasionally live up to the moniker like on the driving, hooky “Control” and the punchy “Regulators.” Worth checking out. www.greydayrecords.com
KING CREOSOTE- THRAWN- DOMNINO- Scottish dude Kenny Anderson like to record. No, I mean he REALLY likes to record. Apparently since 1995 he has released over 40 records on his own label. His last few have been on Domino and this, like others, is all over the map but has a Anglo-folky feel and that thick Scottish brogue always shines through. If you’re a virgin, like I was, give him a chance. www.dominorecordco.us
KING KONG MAGNETICS- FUTURISTIC MONEY MAKERS- PANCAKE PRPDUCTIONS- They call is satirical hip hop. www.pancakeproductions.net
MARISSA LEVY- 63 SONGS ABOUT JOE- SELF RELEASED- Ok, so it is only 5 songs and they may not even be about Joe. Still this gal has a terrific pop sensibility, a silky (yet strong) voice and I dig her songs. First tune reminded me of first album Juliana Hatfield but by song 2 she lays down an acoustic tune and it gets better from there. www.marissalevy.com
THE LITERARY GREATSD- BLACK BLIZZARD- SELF RELEASED- I really enjoyed this Houston, TX band last record and this one is just as good if not better. They still remind me a bit of the Drive by Truckers with lots of twang, soul and back-up singers (horns too). They can write a darn good song. Put on “Coffee and Friends;’ and go forward my friends. www.theliterarygreats.com
MEAT BEAT MANIFESTO- ANSWERS COME IN DREAMS- METROPOLIS- I never liked this band. This did nothing to change my mind. You want a description? Industrial dub. www.metropolis-records.com
THE NECRONAUTS- GAUCHE ET DROITE- HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL- I was expecting some ghastly metal but what I got was 40 songs spread out over two discs by this Mesa, AZ brotherly duo. Musically it is all over the mp,. I guess you could call it indie rock and get away safely but even that doesn’t do it justice. It’s spotty but some of it is pretty darn good. www.thenecronauts.com
JOSH T. PEARSON- LAST OF THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN- MUTE- Wow, this 7 song record by former Lift to Experience guy Pearson (outta Denton, TX) is heavy. Real heavy. Of the 7 songs4 top the 10 minute mark and one other one is 7 minutes. It seems as I through these meditative songs he is seeking redemption while reliving the pain. It is NOT an easy record to get through though some fans might find redemption of their own in these songs. www.mute.com
GREG POPE- BLUE OCEAN SKY- SELF RELEASED- This pop-meister has been nice enough to send me his previous discs and while this one came out last December I still wanted to scribble a bit about it as it’s his strongest yet. He brings both the power an the pop and “My Resignation” and “I Tried to Like You” are my two faves but not a bad one on here. www.gregpope.net
QUIET HOOVES- SADDLE UP- SELF RELEASED- No surprise that this ramshackle pop band with lots of members is from Athens, GA. Leader Javier Morales takes the band through plenty of peaks and valleys and that describes the music too. Up and down. Good and bad. Butter and margarine. You get my drift? www.partypartypartners.com
REVOLVER- PARALLEL LIVES- EMI- French trio offering 4 songs on this acoustic ep. A bit of a folk feel with some real nice harmonies. Vocalist reminded me a bit of Tindersticks Stuart Staples. I like. www.revolvermusic.tv
VESSELS- HELIOSCOPE- CUCKUNDOO- Moody, atmospheric bunch of Leeds, England with relentless drumming and some odd-placed hooks. “Recur”, with its melodic guitar and cooing vocals was one of my faves while the heavier stuff was more like Mogwai (and not totally up my alley). I like exactly 76% of this record. www.cuckundoorecords.com
DAVE WICHAEL FORTUNE IN LOVE- SELF RELEASED- A flying V guitar and a karate kick in front of a mountain is what Dave has chosen for his cd cover. The music on the disc? Not as meatheaded as you’d think but generic guitar and sorta wimpy vocals. www.myspace.com/davewichael
V/A- ANDRE AND GILDAS PRESENT KITSUNE PARISIEN- KITSUNE- French new wave compilation full of catchy, dancy new wave. That’s all,. www.kitsune.fr
MAY 2011
THE ANDERSEN TAPES- AS I WRITE “TODAY” TEN TIMES- FRACTION DISCS- This is Andrea from Free Loan Investments (miss that band) doing the solo thing and it reminded me a bit of Rose Melberg’s solo stuff as well as old UK band Po! Love her sweet vocals and the songs are ace too. www.fractiondiscs.se
BAMBI KINO- S/T- TAPETE- Ok, I didn’t know the concept but thee 4 guys (including Doug GBV Gillard and Ira Elliott from Nada Surf and two other folks) are an homage to the Beatles of 1960 where they played a club in Hamburg, Germany (the Indra Musikclub) and stayed at a hotel called, you guessed it, Bambi Kino. The band even travelled to Germany to record at the same club! The 12 songs here are apparently ones the Beatles played as well. Wow, now that is heavy duty respect. www.tapeterecords.com
BLUE SKIES FOR BLACK HEARTS- EMBRACING THE MODERN AGE- SUPER BIG LTD.- As a producer Pat Kearns has done some bang up jobs for the Exploding Hearts (rip) and the Clorox Girls among others an thankfully with his own band, BSFBH, he not quite as raucous as those two previously mentioned bands but the guy can write some hooky, punchy power pop tunes. Here’s 10 more well worth you precious time. www.superbigltd.com
CALL ME LIGHTNING- WHEN I AM GONE MY BLOOD WILL BE FREE- DUSTY MEDICAL- Thee best Who tribute band to ever call Milwaukee home. Do you wish you saw the Live at Leeds tour? Me too…these guy could do it,. Thundering! www.dustymedical.com
THE CIVIL WARS- BARTON HOLLOW- SENSIBILITY- John Paul White and Joy Williams make up this organic, folk pop duo and it’s all acoustic guitars and rustic harmonies. From the way they croon and the lyrics of love lost (and gained) you might think they’re a couple but I’m told they’re not. It reminded me a bit o the Swell Season and I’ll bet they’re s hit on the coffeehouse circuit. Nice. www.thecivilwars.com
LLOYD COLE- BROKEN RECORD- TAPETE’- Low-key and underrated Brit popster Cole (who apparently lives in the US) is still around and though this record came out last Sept. I have hardly seen any press on it. It’s 11 songs of gentle, country-influenced pop tunes (think Neil Halstead’s solo record). Seriously, don’t give up on this guy, he still writes some mighty fine songs. www.tapeterecords.com
NATE CURRIN- GOODNIGHT CALIFORNIA- ARCHAIC CANNON- Gainesville, FL guy doing some real basic pop/rock that’s got some hooks but this is a bit too lite for my ears (and that’s saying something). You could hear songs like these during a breakup scene on THE HILLS. www.natecurrin.com
DANGEROUS PONIES- S/T- SELF RELEASED- OK, this is quirky pop music that isn’t afraid to make the illegal u-turn from time to time. At times it reminds me of San Fran’s late, great Beulah while other times like Sweden’s off-kilter Love Is All. They switch gears more than Mario Andretti and though the female vocalist annoys me at times it’s a small price to pay for solid pop. Which this is. www.punkrockpayroll.com
THE DISTRICT ATTORNEYS- ORDERS FROM…- SELF RELEASED- This Atlanta bunch seem on the right path on these breezy, laid back, twangy tunes. “Going to Carolina” starts things off on the right foot and by the time they hit tune 4, “Sweet Heart All Reckless and Humble” you feel like you’re in on some secret Bonnaroo band. www.myspace.com/thedistrictattorneys
EKSI EKSO- BROWN SHARK RED LION- THE MYLENE SHEATH- Not sure what to make of these Boston-based pop mad scientists. They’re all over the place. I hear beats, off-kilter synth work and dreamy vocals. Not sure if I like it but it’s making me curious and I have gone back to it a few times. Let me go play it again. www.eksiekso.com
EL OBO- OXFORD BASEMENT COLLECTION- ESPERANZA PLANTATION- The main guy for Colour Revolt (Jesse Coppenbarger) offers up some brooding folk but the stuff was too moany and didn’t seem to speed up from, its glacial pace. Maybe if I was in a different mood? www.esperanzaplantation.com
ANDY FRIEDMAN – LASERBEAMS AND DREAMS- CITY SALVAGE- NYC based cartoonist turned musician who bangs out some low-key , creaky folk (the photo on the cover he looks a bit like a young Allen Ginsberg). He and his 2 co-horts (no drums) recorded this over a 24 hour period with one overdub. I wasn’t completely taken but it wasn’t bad, www.citysalvagerecords.com
THE FUTUREBIRDS- EP- AUTUMN TONE- Athens, GA bunch who gave is the terrific HAMPTON’S LULLABY last year and here they are with 6 more song of fuzzy grace and beauty. The band harmonizes wonderfully and who doesn’t love a gallon of reverb. If you think My Morning Jacket are spinning their wheels then buy this. Now. www.autumntone.com
HICKOIDS- KICKING IT WITH THE TWITS- SAUXTEX- San Antonio’s finest (they’ve been around for nearly 3 decades) tackles 8 covers here including The Who (“Pictures of Lily”, Stones (“Have you seen your mother Baby, standing in the shadow?”), Elton John (“Bennie and the Jets”). The Damned (“Neat Neat Neat”) and others. About 75% great. www.saustexmedia.com
DANIEL MARTIN MOORE- IN THE COOL OF THE DAY- SUB POP- Gorgeous Appalachian folk from this KY guy. He offers a few traditional and some covers too but his originals are the ones that truly shine. It’s all over in 30 minutes (11 songs) and as the title implies, as relaxing as a weary rest on the wrap-around front porch. www.subpop.com
PARLOURS- EP- AQUIESTA MOS RECORDS- Only 5 tunes by this promising quartet form Des Moines, IA (led by the sweet-voiced Dana Halferty) but 5 lovely folk-pop tunes. “I think I’ll Call You Mine” is gentle and sultry while “So Still” adds some more cajones to the mix. All 5 tunes are worthy. www.aquiestamosrecords.com
THE PERFECT VESSELS- NAME OUR OWN STARS- MAKESHIFT- Pretty good Memphis trio who bust out some real nice pop songs on this record. There’s some real nice melodies but the record is 15 songs long and they could have whittled it down to about 9 or 10 and made a real strong record. Record by Doug Easley who makes everything sound better. www.makeshiftmusic.com
POOR BUT SEXY- LET’S MOVE IN TOGETHER- SELF RELEASED- Kinda like Steely Dan gone really bad disco. Any band that has a song called “Hotter than a Poptart” deserves exactly what it gets. Yeesh. www.poorbutsexydc.com
REFRIGERATOR- DANGEROUS- SHRIMPER- The Brothers Callachi return for their first record in 4 years. It is a pretty stripped down affair with lots of lo-fi acoustic guitar and Allen singing. The songs have a bit of an unfinished quality to them and while not their best record, it’s still solid in parts. www.midheaven.com
SARANDON- AGE OF REASON- ODDBOX/SLUMBERLAND- It’s pretty rare when I’m not smitten with a release on the Slumberland label but this band is one of those. This is a concept record being in between each song some dour sounding Brit guy is complaining about something or other. The songs, like all Sarandon tunes, are short, choppy, edgy and sorta like Wire and The Minutemen. Meh (best song title “Mustn’t Grumble”). www.slumberlandrecords.com
RICK SHAFFER- HIDDEN CHARMS- SELF RELEASED- Old school Philly guy (also in The Reds) who offers up his 2nd solo record with some nice down home rock where that spot between blues and rockabilly meets up. My pick to click is the slow, murky “Buy and Sell.” www.tarockmusic.com
STERLING LOONS- MARCH TO THE TUNE- KOOL KAT MUSIK- Seattle bunch with the goofy name whose last record came out 7 years ago. These guys mine more of a freakbeat/garage/psych territory than any power pop (which the label is usually known for. I found it to be more wanky than swanky. www.koolkatmusik.com
WATTS- ON THE DIAL- SELF RELEASED- Boston quartet doing some snotty garage- boogie rock . Vocalist Dan Kopko sounds like he has a 3-pack a day habit and while it may not be good for his health it is good for we listeners who wish Stweven Tyler still had some balls. www.myspace.com/wattsrock
YOUNG PRISMS- FRIENDS FOR NOW- KANINE- This San Francisco band kicked up enough fuzzy dust on this debut lp that I was surprised it didn’t have a Slumberland logo on the back of it. The songs are drenched in gallons of soot and fuzz while the male/female vocals float over top. Things Daydream Nation meets Isn’t Anything. The songs are decent to good but could be better. That’ll be the next record. www.kaninerecords.com
SHORT REVIEWS BY JOSEPH KYLE
Mira-The Echo Lingers On: Not a misspelling of the K Records chanteuse, but this is an odds and sods collection from the late Floridian darkwave band, who made music that was similar in nature to Cranes, Lush, Slowdive and the other bands on their label, Projekt. This collection of outtakes, unreleased songs, and demos is a rather nice listen; it's not all darkness; occasionally, like on "For Now," the band takes on a sound not far removed from The Pretenders. But like demo collections, quality varies between songs and some feel unfinished. Personal choice: "In The End," the epic closer, which may be a statement of the bands' status. It's loud, haunting and dark--beautiful. (Projekt)
Chikita Violenta: TRE3S--This Mexican band does the anthem-laced indie rock thing quite well; if it weren't out of favor, I'm sure they'd be a great stadium rock band, like, say, Slade, or Kiss. Instead, they're doing the Phoenix/Elbow/NPR rock thing, and I got no complaints with it. It doesn't overwhelm, but it doesn't offend, either. I'd probably dig jamming this on a road trip, but probably not anywhere else that requires sitting still and no movement. (Arts&Crafts)
Jackie-O-Motherfucker: Earth Sound System--Do you like Pink Floyd's "Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together In a Cave and Grooving With A Pict?" Well, apparently these guys do, because this album sounds like a jam session based around it. If you dig rootsy field recordings, you might like this. Or you might not. I could go either way. (Fire Records)
Karl Blau: Max--K Records star does the slow jam jazz thing on a slab of twelve inch vinyl, and it ain't bad. Blau's voice you either love or hate, but I dig it. He's giving his all on "Celebrate by Singing," but "Golden Chariot" sounds like he stole it from Lois's unreleased treasure chest of songs, with a Dub Narcotic twist to boot. The other songs are nice, but not as nice as as those previous songs. Still, it's like something I'd listen to on a rainy afternoon and would find it a fitting soundtrack--like it is today. (K Records)
The Appleseed Cast: Middle States-- This is a prelude to a big comeback thing for these Kansas-based atmospheric rockers, who have had crap luck with record labels (how many have they signed to that have closed down?) but are now back with a four-song EP. They're still doing the heavy, dark, emotionally appealing atmospheric rock thing that they've been doing since the mid 1990s. Best one is the epic closer, the fifteen minute "Three Rivers." Welcome back! (Graveface)
The Sea and Cake: The Moonlight Butterfly: This Chicago-based institution returns with EP in hand. They're exactly as you remember them: jazzy, breezy, a little bit poppy, and sometimes "experimental." When they go experimental on the title track, it's really nice. But when they go straight pop on "Up on the North Shore" and "Monday," it's equally nice, and these songs find lead singer Sam Prekop in fine form. No real surprises here, folk--just consistently strong pop music. (Thrill Jockey)
Lord Huron: Mighty -- What if Animal Collective were inspired not by whoever it is they're inspired by, but by Enya? Well, throw in the AC influence with Enya, mix gently with a little generic world music, and presto! You've got Lord Huron's EP Mighty. (Self Released)
Barn Owl & The Infinite String Band: You'd expect something rustic with a name like Barn Owl, but noooooope. You're getting drones, mister! And not bad drones at that. Their Thrill Jockey records are a bit more refined, but this collaboration with The Infinite String Ensemble features several long (near ten minutes each) songs that drone on and on and on. It ain't bad but it's definitely something you'll need to be in the mood for. I like it, though, because it is very relaxing. In a loud, droned-out way. (Important Records)
Western Hymns: Out of the Way EP: Wondered what happened to Sarah Utter, from the wonderful Bangs? Well she's got a great new band called Western Hymns, with Craig from The Old Haunts. Their music--a raw, shambling mess of garage rock, make me ask the question, "Whatever happened to the days of Greg Sage, Royal Trux, and Dead Moon?" This is some great stuff! (K Records)
APRIL 2011
GREGG ALLMAN- LOW COUNTRY BLUES- ROUNDER- For Allman’s first solo record in 14 year he brings in T-Bone Burnett as producer and digs up 12 obscure blues songs on this all-covers record. You’ll hear Skip James “Devil got my Woman”, BB Kings “Please Accept My Love” and plenty more. Allman has the perfect voice for these songs and the pro (yet understated backing back is on track. www.rounder.com
ALSO- MUSIC BELONGS TO YOU- SELF RELEASED- Swooning, dramatic rock in the Doves/ Tindersticks vein. Opening tune “I Love You” was a gorgeous cut as are a few other but about half of these cuts are more plod than pep. Woulda made a solid EP. www.alsomusic.com
KASEY ANDERSON AND THE HONKIES- HEART OF A DOG- RED RIVER- Rip roaring trad rock from this this Pac NW guy. He could’ve left off the gut-bucket blues opener (“The Wrong Light”)( but the rest is mostly fist-pumping, including the hidden track and the end, a cover of the English Beat’s “Save it for Later.” www.kaseyanderson.com
ANIMAL PRUFROCK- CONGRATULATIONS; THANK YOU + I’M SORRY- RIGHTEOUS BABE- A bi-polar , transgender singer songwriter who was one half of the duo Bitch and Animal. These 12 songs are folk musings with some occasionally forays into new wave and some soul too. Minor chords, no hooks and pretty obnoxious, really. www.ruighteopusbabe.com
BIRDS OF AVALON- S/T- BLADEN COUNTY- Recorded by Mitch Easter but this is definitely more of thee stoner , psych rock with a bit of a bluesy vibe variety. The vocalist even sounds like Robert Plant at times (listen to “Invasion”). There are the occasional pop hooks but this is going more for the jugular, in other words, I would loved this is high school but now? Not so much. www.bladencountyrecords.com
BIRDSONG AT MORNING- ANNALS OF MY GLASS HOUSE : ABRIDGED- BLUE GENTIAN- This is a sampler of this project which is a 4-cd/25-song record. This sampler had 11 of those songs and it’s real folk rock lite (think James Taylor or James Blunt). It probably has the coffee house crowd swooning. www.birdsongsatmorning.com
BLANK PAGES- ABOLSUTE UNCERTAINY- KOOL KAT- This NJ band used to be on Face Down Records but have jumped to Kool Kat, another fine power pop label (not sure why I felt the need to mention that). They are still creating hooky, melodic, mid-tempo power with a baker’s dozen of solid tunes. My faves are are “Let It All Out” and “Help Me.” www.blankpagespop.com
JESSE BREWSTER- WRECKING BALL AT THE CONCERT HALL- CROOKED PRAIRIE- Regular guy rock form , well, not the heartland (as I expected) but from San Fran. This guy reminded me of Tom Petty’s more rootsy musings and Brewster can write a pretty good pop song. Opener “All Those Things I Said” is the pick to click here but several of these tunes are worthy. www.jessebrewster.com
BREE BRUNS- S/T EP- HONEY SPOT- 4 tunes and they are all covers. She hits thee classic (Duke Ellington, Hoagy Carmichael, Fats Waller and Cole Porter). It’s buoyed by Bruns’ sweet voice and the stand-up bass. Sunday morning music. www.honeyspotrecords.com
CHAMBERLIN- BITTER BLOOD- ROLL CALL- This laid-back bunch hails from Vermont, toured with Grace Potter & the Nocturnals and have released their very good debut record. A bit jangly with a real organic feel, think along the lines of My Morning Jacket or Band of Horses, and mostly importantly, the songwriting is solid. www.rollcallrecords.com
ARRON DEAN- MPLS- SELF RELEASED- Uber talented singer-songwriter originally from South Africa (though this was recorded all over: BKNY, Berkeley, CA, Franklin, TN and yes, some in MPLS) who immediately brings to mind the early work of Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) with a gentle yet melodic style. This is definitely a cut above the pack. www.arrondean.com
BRENT DEBOER- THE FARMER- SELF RELEASED- You may know Mr. DeBoer better as Fathead, drummer for psych-rockers The Dandy Warhols, but you probably wouldn't have thought of his main gig listening to The Farmer, his debut EP. Unlike guitarist Peter Holmstrom's Pete International Airport, which (ahem) arose from the band's recent hiatus, the songs found on The Farmer are short, brief atmospheric folk-like songs that might be called alt.country by some, psych-country by others, and, well, beautiful by all who hear it. This EP is all-too-brief, but it never wears out its welcome. "My Heart's a Joke" and "Sick of Where I've Been" hint at the self-loathing the late Elliott Smith excelled at, but DeBoer is not imitating. DeBoer often blurs his voice and the words and making a kaleidoscopic, multicolored sound. By the time you get into The Farmer's groove, the record's over, which is a shame. It's a lovely diversion; here's to hearing more of his contributions to future Dandys records! www.brentdeboer.com JOSEPH KYLE
TIM DELAUGHTER AND THE POLYPHONIC SPREE- THE VISIONEERS OST - SELF RELEASED- Talk about flying under the radar---this brief album is the score to a film released a few years ago, and while it is credited to Tim DeLaughter and the Polyphonic Spree, it's most certainly not like what you would expect from a Polyphonic Spree record. In fact, you wouldn't know this was the Spree unless you were told. You've just been told. Instead of grand, symphonic movements, you get small pieces, sketches that, if developed, his band could really make special, such as "Charisma," and the quiet "Times are Changing." Other songs have a Brian Eno vibe, like "Dreamnaut" and "Listen." Most of the songs are piano-based, with effects and quiet accompaniment. If anything, the music here reminded me of Air and their score to the The Virgin Suicides. This "album" is brief, at only 20 minutes, and if you're expecting the happy, sunshine-y vibe of previous glories, you'll need to look elsewhere. www.thepolyphonicspree.com JOSEPH KYLE
DUCHESS LEO- GOLDEN GRAY- WHALE HEART- Not one but two guys here, one sings and the other produces and they have been called Drizzly Bear (ha ha ha ). It’s got loops, beats, tweaks and yes, hooks. “Bloom” is 5:08 of gorgeousness an a few other fit that bill a well. Give in…. www.whaleheartrecords.com
EASTER ISLAND- BETTER THINGS- SELF RELEASED- Athens, GA bunch who like the quiet/loud dynamic and seem to go for a 90’s vibe with music that edds and flows, saunters and crawls. My pick to click is the swelling title track. www.myspace.com/easterislandmusic
EKSI EKSO- KILLS OF THE FLOOD TIDE single- MYLENE SHEATH- 2 song primer by this Boston art-pop trio a teaser for their upcoming BROWN SHARK RED LION cd. The rhythms shuffle and the vocals sway with some soaring keyboards. The a-side is terrific and the b-side, “Bellows to the Brass Lens” is nearly as good. www.mylenesheath.com
ELECTRIC SHEPHERD- S/T- SELF RELEASED- San Fran trio who look like they’d fit the bill of a doom metal band (St. Vitus?) but go more for an out there psych/post rock feel (which I liked) and then slipping off into a murky blues territory (which I didn’t). I liked about half this and they do seem dedicated to their craft. www.myspace.com/electricshepherdmusic
ELSEWHERE- 1981= MISS CASHEW- A Boston trio of “atypical punks with corporate day jobs “ (their words). They claim to be influenced equally by Duran Duran and the Sex Pistols (Rush, too). Some decent hooks, but a bit too prog for me. www.elsewhere-band.com
ENJOY YOUR PUMAS- COMMONALITY- MFM- Canadian bunch (form Winnipeg) led by female vocalist Rosie Blais with Bloc Party-ish rhythms. Blais’s vocals have plenty of personality but it’s not really my thing. I could see them getting huge and again, they have talent but not my bag. www.enjoyyourpumas.com
EPIGENE- A WALL STREET ODYSSEY- SELF RELEASED- Wow, these guys pumped a lot of time, money and energy into this project. It is a 2-cd set with a booklet and by the hubby/wife team of Sean Bigler and Bonnie Lykes. It is a rock opera that tells a story of a Wall Street guy gone bad (ends up homeless) then goes to live in the country. The songwriting is not bad but not great (we’ll call it quirky and eclectic) but I have to give them props for the whole package. www.epigenemusic.com
EULOGIES- TEAR THE FENCES DOWN- DANGERBIRD- Angelino Peter Walker released a few solo records in the mid-2000’s before finding some bandmates and forming Eulogies. On this, their 3rd record, Walker’s idiosyncratic poop style works wonders with indelible hooks and off-kilter , shuffling rhythms,. He also has a way with words making TEAR THE FENCES DOWN all the more unique an engaging. www.dangerbirdrecords.com
FAKE PROBLEMS- REAL GHOST CAUGHT ON TAPE- SIDEONEDUMMY- Was expecting something else (maybe some pop punk?) but this is an interesting mix of emo, some occasional folk, a but o’ falsetto soul (“5678”) and some good old anthems (think Gaslight Anthem). All from 4 guys outta Naples, Florida. Who’ da’ thunk it? www.sideonedummy.com
MARC FARRE- ONE HAND ON THE NIGHT- ALL WEATHER MUSIC- French/American guy with his 5th record here. The rhythms are pulsing and the mood is dark. A bit like a moodier Nick Cave. He has a talented cast of characters alongside him and offers a Serge Gainesbourg cover too. www.marcfarre.com
FREEBASS- IT’S A BEAUTFUL LIFE- HACIENDA- The supergroup that doesn’t exist anymore. Peter Hook, Andy Rourke and Main from the Stone Roses Yeah, on paper it sounded good and it’s not awful but the songwriting just isn’t there. It’s all over the map musically and that bonus disc with all those instrumental mixes…..egads! www.24hourservicestation.com
FRENCH MIAMI- MOTOR SKILLS- DEATH BY AUDIO- On their 2009 debut this Brooklyn trio crammed it with interesting curvy, post-punk that wasn’t devoid of hooks. On this 5-song follow up the band gets more experimental and even approaches Krautrock at times minus the metronome. “Older” was my fave here but overall I dig the debut more. www.deathbyaudiorecords.com
GANG OF FOUR- CONTENT- YEP ROC- Not nearly as good as ENTERTAINMENT. www.yeproc.com
GOLDENBOY- SLEEPWALKER- EENIE MEENIE- I guess in addition to p;ayign sideman for several bands (Bright Eyes, Grandaddy, Elliott Smiths, etc.) leader Shon Sullivan occasionally fins time to write his own music and this 2nd Goldenboy disc captures Sullivan in a real melodic mood with a glowing warms radiating from, most of these songs. With pop songs this good you wonder why he plays sideman. www.eeniemeenie.com
RACHEL GOODRICH- S/T- YELLOW BEAR- Hailing from the land of sun and bikinis (Miami) Rachel popped onto the scene a few years ago with her debut and now this sophomore effort with a big name producer (Greg Wells). Her songs are still, folky, charming and unique. There’s bits of beat, vaudeville, indie pop and the like. A wonderful listen. www.myspace.com/rachelgoodrich
ALAIN JOHANNES- SPARK- SELF RELEASED- Had no ideas who this guy was but read a bit and heard he has lent his guitar prowess to records by folks like Jason Falkner, Mark Lanegan, Chris Cornell, Queens of the Stone Age and plenty more. This record is a tribute to his late wife and explores unique pop territories that are at times both unique and moving. www.dangerbirdrecords.com
LO-FI RESISTANCE- DEEP BREATH- SOUND LANGUAGE- Young dude Randy McStine offers up 11 songs on here and while it’s not always my bag the guy has got talent. Apparently he has folks from Spock’s Bead and King’s X helping (didn’t impress me) an there’ big of prog stew all over the place but there; some stunning pop bits too, as well a loops an electronics as well. A guilty pleasure? At times, yeah. www.myspace.com/lofiresistance
LULLWATER- SILHOUETTE- SPECTRA- Athens, GA bunch who on this, their debut, go for the immediate southern rock thang by aping bad Skynyrd boogie on “Worse by Better.” They make up for it on “Amsterdam” with a pop hook that would make the Drive by Truckers proud. I also hear the punch of Portland’s I Can Lick any Sonfofabitch in the House and I can already see the can of beer being hoisted at their live shows already. www.spectrarecords.com
JAKE MANN + THE UPPER HAND- PARALLEL SOUTH- CROSSBILL- Decent to good Bay Area songwriter who mostly reminds me of Tom Petty but I did hear bits of say Pavement in there too. “Below the Line” was a nice pop song and hey, he’s going for it. www.crossbillrecords.com
GRAHAM REPULSKI - ELECTRIC WORRIER- SHORTER RECORDINGS- NJ quartet led by, you got it , the man himself, Graham Repulski. Mastered by former GBV-er Todd Tobias and the first thing you’ll hear on these tunes is some righteous Pollard love. Short noisy pop nuggets that are always in the red and don’t forget to bag the hooks. I dig it and you will too (or else). www.myspace.com/grahamrepulski
MATT & KIM- SIDEWALKS- DFADER- Brooklyn’s favorite couple return with their 3rd record and it’s not much different than the first 2 cept…well, it’s way better produced. Sometimes to a fault as at time’s Kim’s drums sound programmed. Still these guys are the punkier cousins to Mates of State. I still have yet to see M & K live, but I hear I really need to. www.faderlabel.com
NEW MEXICO- HAVE YOU MET MY FRIEND?- SELF RELEASED- 7 tunes of tight, taut , wiry rock that has plenty of hooks. They sorta reminded me a bit of The Soft Pack Opening cut “Motion Sickness” sets a good tone of the rest of the record. www.newmexicoband.bandcamp.com
NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS- KEYS TO THE KINGDOM- SONGS OF THE SOUTH- These three are back with some more of their swampy / boogie rock. A lot hookier and less jammy than I expected. Best song title: “Jumpercable Blues.” www.nmallstars.com
ISAAC RUSSELL- S/T ep- COLUMBIA- Pleasant singer-songwriter fare from thus NYC dude who recorded these 5 songs in Mississippi. He knows his way around an acoustic guitar and tosses in some sticky hooks too. Maybe the next Jeff Buckley? www.isaacrussell.com
SONNY & THE SANDWITCHES- 7”- ENDLESS NEST- Sonny Smith, leader of Sonny & The Sunsets, nearly drowned. He wrote a book about it. Then, instead of the book, he wrote some songs about it. That's what this single is. With his friends The Sandwitches (never heard of 'em either), he recorded these four songs. The difference between these songs and his main gig is that the song titles are longer, there's more country twang to be found, and these songs are weepies--songs about death, dying, and loss. I personally love the Neil Young-ish "Through the Fog and Haze," and "Cathedral in the Dark" sounds like a Harvest outtake. While not as catchy as The Sunsets, these songs have a dark sing-along catchiness that I enjoy, and though the subject matter is supposed to be dark, I can't say these songs didn't make me smile. This self-titled release is a lovely little diversion whilst we wait for the next Sonny & The Sunsets album, but I have to say that maybe a Sonny & The Sandwitches album wouldn't be a bad idea, either. www.endlessnest.com JOSEPH KYLE
W.H.W. (WELCOME HOME WALKER)- SUDS- SELF RELEASED- Portland bunch who released a decent 7” that I have but ken Dirtnap swore to me that their new stuff (ie: this) was miles better and he’s right. Trashy/ hooky garage pop in the Reigning Sound vein. Explore www.myspace.com/welcomehomewalker.
X-RAY PRESS- UVB-76- X-RAY PRESS- When a band’s biggest influence is (post hardcore outfit) Don Caballero I know I’m going to hate it. I hated this. www.xraypress.net
MARCH 2011
THE ARRIVALS- VOLATILE MOTLOTOV- RECESS- Had not realized that this Chicago bunch had been around for so long (first tape: 1997) as they had some releases on the Thick label in the early 2000’s. This is high-energy, fist-pumping punk (ala their heroes, Naked Raygun). “Two Years’ is a great way to start off a record and most of the rest is decent to very good. www.recessrecords.com
BADLY DRAWN BOY- IT’S WHAT I’M THINKING PART 1: PHOTOGRAPHING SNOWFLAKES- THE END- First BDB full-length since 2006 if I’m not mistaken. This has a nice mix of real low-key acoustic numbers (“In Safe Hands”, etc.) mixed with some beautifully orchestrated numbers (“Too Many Miracles”, “What Tomorrow Brings, etc.). It all sounds a bit tentative, as if he’s trying to get back to his glory days but he really shouldn’t worry, most of this is good. www.theendrecords.com
THE DAVENPORTS- WHY THE GREAT GALLOP?- MOTHER WEST- Only the 3rd record in a decade from thus BKNY pop bunch led by pop maven Scott Klass. On initial listen they reminded me a bit of Fountains of Wayne (Klass used to play with FOW’s Chris Collingswood) but they get a bit moodier (some cello and violin, especially on the beautiful “Figure Me Out”). Nice mix of tempos and strong songwriting too. www.motherest.com
JOSEPHINE FOSTER & THE VICTOR HERRERO BAND- ANDA JALEO- FIRE- Live collection of tunes written by Federico Garcia Lorca (apparently his Las Canciones Polulares collection, originally recorded in 1931 but banned back then) and the sound quality is average and you have to put up with Foster’s voice…oh boy. I understand the importance of it all but not mah thing. www.firerecords.com
FUCK KNIGHTS- THE RECORDED BY GARY BURGER FROM THE MONKS EP- CRUSTACEAN- Way in the red garage rock by these 4 lads and yes, they hauled their cookies to Turtle River, MN to have Mr. Burger record them. Nothing earth-shattering here, just some good, raunchy garage rock. www.crustaceanrecords.com
V/A- THE HELIGOATS- LET LOOSE / SAM HUMANS LIVE FREE- GREYDAY- Split 10” by these two bands, Sam Humans, who I’d never heard of before is a Californian who looks like Sam Beam and sounds like David Berman,. The Heligoats are a Bellingham, WA combo doing jaggedy rock that I have never much care for. www.greydayrecords.com
IMPOSSIBLE HAIR- TOAST A DOZEN ON THE OUTSIDE- SELF RELEASED- Most excellent 2nd lp by this DC-area bunch who take some cues from GBV and bust it all wide open with some terrific, short songs. I’ve got an advance of it so I don’t even have song titles but trust me on this one. http://www.myspace.com/impossiblehair
LOW WATER- THE TASTE YOU KNOW AND ENJOY- SELF RELEASED- 4th record by this BKNY quartet who quite frankly don’t care if you’ve never heard of them, thank you very much. This thoughtful, well-played pop music with delicate melodies and harmonies to boot. At times they reminded me of Wilco (the good stuff). Start with “I Amplify” and go from there. www.myspace.com/lowwater
LUV CLOWNS- LOVE CLOWNS!- GONER- Would you want Harlan T. Bobo entertaining YOUR kids? The answer is, of course you would. This kids (not really) record was spawned in Memphis, the only town this COULDA come from. Oh sure, there’s songs like “Mr. Bubble”, “Jump Up!” and “Do the Rooster!” If your kids favorite relative is ol’ drunk uncle Jimmy then yes, they will love this , otherwise, this is for the growed-ups in the house. www.goner-records.com
MINIATURE TOGERS- FORTRESS- MODERN ART- Kept hearing good things about this band and I, of course, get to hear the art-damaged 2nd release instead of the (supposedly classic) debut. These guys left Phoenix for Brooklyn and decide to get all experimental on us. I need to find that debut. www.modernartrecords.com
OARS- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Brooklyn via Seattle synth pop due who originally reminded me of The Drums but these guys add some beats (ala Postal Service). I dig the upbeat stuff ((“Black Eyes”, “Karats”, etc.) but am more lukewarm ion their moodier stuff. So there you go.
PIGEONS- LIASONS- SOFT ABUSE- Glad to see the Soft Abuse label is s still in action, This is the duo of Clark and Wednesday and these 8 songs ooze hazy psychedelic beauty (ala Opal) and they even include a French sung Serge Gainesbourg cover (and lived in the gay Paree for a while too). At times Wednesday’s vocals will charm the pants off you. Really. www.softabuse.com
QUIET LIFE- BIG GREEN- SAFETY MEETING- Jersey boys (like me) who landed in Portland after a few other stops. These might seem like they chew on hay but that’s the harmonica talking. Still I’m thinking Gram Parson is on their turntable a lot and these 10 songs, with titles like “Easy to Please” and “Sweet As Molasses” are nearly impossible not to like. Try me. www.safetymeeting.net
SCATTERED TREES- SYMPATHY- ROLL CALL- Moody bunch from Chicago who create mostly slow, deliberate tunes. Most of this was written after vocalist Nate Eiesland’s dad died and while the band is certainly talented and the sound appealing, most of the songs didn’t do it for me here (I did like “Love and Leave” though) www.scatteredtreesmusic.com
JOHN SHIPE- VILLAIN- INVOLUSHUN- Low-key pop guy who could easily get lost in the shuffle but the guy is a talented songwriter with a flair for intelligent lyrics and able to eek out a hook , it seems, whenever he wants to. Opening tune “Lion” didn’t do it for me but the next several (including the title track) did. Might be like a Tommy Keene, forever laying under the radar but I hope not. www.johnshipe.com
RUSSEL K. SHORES- L.S 5- SELF RELEASED- 7 tunes (written for his wife) by an apparently longtime funk/soul/blues dude. This to me sounded like jazz lite and was not my bag at all. www.myspace.com/russelkshores
SOFT CIRCLE- SHORE OBSESSED- PPM- This is a solo project of former Black Dice dude Hisham Bharoocha who seems to have mellowed out a bit and is focused more on chill dance music. He’s a drummer but I don’t think he plays drums on here, it’s more like beats, samples, drum machine and some cool synth work. “Don’t Know” is my pick to click but a lot of this is strong, www.postpresentmedium.com
SOLVENTS- FORGIVE YR. BLOOD- BEE RESIN- Judging by the cover I was think a gritty punk band (like an early Kill Rock Stars one) but this is moodier and less punk but still good. The trio makes good use of the violin and that beautiful piano on ”Empty Vessel Blues” was a thing of beauty. Not all tunes hit but a few are really good. www.myspace.com/thesolvents
EDDIE SPAGHETTI- SUNDOWNER- BLOODSHOT- Solo record #3 from the former frontman of The Supersuckers. This batch is mostly covers where he tackles tunes by Johnny Cash, Steve Earle and his old pal Rick Sims (Lee Harvey Oswald Band) and even countrys up The Dwarves, ahem, classic, “Everybody’s Girl.” Most of this is breezy and fun and it as that unmistakable Spaghetti flair to it all. Amen. www.bloodshotrecords.com
TAME IMPALA- INNERSPEAKER- MODULAR- Trio of Perth, Australia youngster (they started a decade ago as 13 year olds) who channel everything from old psych, Brit pop and howling garage on this strong debut. Oh sure, at times singer Kevin Parker is a dead ringer for John Lennon and other times it’s a ll a bit, erm, too much (there I said it) but still , for a debut , these guys oughta be damn proud. www.modularpeople.com
THORCRAFT COBRA- THE THORCRAFT COBRA EP- SELF RELEASED- The name had me thinking a bad 00’s alterna rock band but happily this isn’t that. This is a duo, a guy named Billy on guitar and vocals and a gal name Tammy on drums (she’s spent some time playing with the Sparks guys). Only 8 tunes here but a real nice mix of pop styles . “True Love” will make some mix tapes. Yes, I still make those, don’t YOU? www.thorcraftcobra.com
THROUGH THE SPARKS- WORM MOON WANING- SKYBUCKET- They hail from ‘bama and on this, their sophomore release, they meld some cool Flaming Lips-isms with a hint of Americana and it’s a nice mix of chugging pop (“Turn Everything Off” and something a bit more cosmic (“Like a Dove”). They brought the tunes on here and for that, they deserve your attention. www.skybucket.com
VANITY THEFT- GET WHAT YOU CAME FOR- ADAMANT- 4 females from Dayton, Ohio doing mid-tempo alterna rock. The press sheet compares them to Sleater Kinney but I hear more of a Donnas/Runaways sound but not as good as either. Will appeal to some folks, just not me. www.vanitytheft.com
LONNIE WALKER- THESE TIMES OLD TIMES- DIGG UP TAPES- This cd came in one of those homemade digipak sleeves hand silk-screened in an edition of 200. The dude (band, actually) is from North Carolina and do a high-energy take on cow punk meet Appalachia (more of the latter though). Good songs, good energy and probably real good live.
HOLCOMBE WALLER- INTO THE DARK UNKNOWN- NAPOLEON- Portland singer-songwriter (via San Fran) who I’ve never heard of (no surprise) but hey, he seems to have gotten lots of positive press. This is basically gentle acoustic fare but the guy has panache;’, a nice melodic sense and a voice like Sufjan, if Sufjan had a better voice. Really. www.holcombewaller.com
WE WERE THE STATES- RASA- CJHICKEN RANCH- I went from hating this to liking it to hating it again and then to loving it, all in about 12 minutes. At times they remind me of an American version of the Libertines and others, like a more frenzied Strokes. “Don’t Ask Why:” was my pick to click. www.chickenranchrecords.com
WOLVERTON BROTHERS- CROOKED- IONIK- Glad to see these Cincy dudes still around after having a record out on the Gibson Bros Okra label back in the 80’s. This bent Americana isn’t always up my alley but a good portion of it is and you gotta hand it to them for sticking it out this long in the face of such massive public indifference. Yeah! www.ionikrecords.com
YUCK- S/T- FAT POSSUM- The record cover had me thinking art punk all the way but this is more like a Dino Jr/ Sonic Youth knockoff with good songs. The lead guitarist take leads (pun intended) from Mr. Mascis and you coulda gotten away with calling this stuff slacker rock but hey, are there any slackers left. “Get Away” is my new generation for the week or day. Or at least hour. www.fatpossum.com
FEBRUARY 2011
ALL INDIA RADIO- THE SILENT SUIRF- SELF RELEASED- Aussie trio who I’ve seen described as “chilltronica” and , aw, what the hey, I probably can’t come up with a better word to describe them. There’s beats, whooshing keyboards , vocal samples and actual vocals too. These dudes are good. www.allindieradio.com
THE BEATIN’S- A LITTLE GIVE AN TAKE- SELF RELEASED- 6 trippy, folky cuts from the singer of Jonathan Firewater and some friends. I can see the appeal of but not my thing though I did like “Jesus Met the Woman at the Well.”
THE BEETS- STAY HOME- CAPTURED TRACKS- A rare occasion where the Captured Tracks releases something I don’t love. This BK, NY trio are primitive, really primitive. The guitarist is always out of tune and strumming or plucking madly. While the rhythm section is thumping away. Some of the songs are ear-tugging (“Hens & Roosters”, “Watching TV”, etc.) but most of this feels a little too novelty. www.capturedtracks.com
RUSSELL CRAWFORD- FLOATING AIMLESSLY—POP BOOMERANG- Aussie pop guy, buddies with Michael Carpenter (He plays in MC’s band and MC was worked on form of Crawford’s recordings). The guy has a good pop sensibility and can turn a clever phrase when he wants to. Well worth a listen or more. www.russellcrawford.com
DARWIN DEEZ- S/T- LUCKY NUMBER- Much hyped NYC dude who apparently has set some fans in a tizzy with both his single “Constellation’ as well as his dance moves (ala Napoleon Dynamite) and Carlos Santana-esque kinky hairstyle. A few decent hooks but this is more flash than dash. www.luckynumbermusic.com
DELUKA- YOU ARE THE NIGHT- VEL- Catchy, electro pop by a band that is not sure if it wants to be Missing Persons, Berlin or Garbage. The songs aren’t necessarily bad but this overblown production was annoying. www.velrecords.com
THE DIPLOMATS OF SOLID SOUND- WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND- PRAVDA- These cats from Iowa City have been honing their craft for quite some time now. What I that craft? Hunkering down and whipping out smokin’ r & b numbers ala’ Booker T and the MG’s with plenty o’ horns and organ. This stuff is hard NOT to like and I’ll bet live the burn down the house. Worship….now! www.pravdamusic.com
JOSHUA ENGLISH- LAY YOUR BARE BONES- SELF RELEASED- Portland dude (via Boston0 who has neck tattoos, wears a nice hat and seems to have a bit of a Billy Bragg fixation. This is usually upbeat, folky roots rock that has panache. “M-LV” is a fist pumper and “River Rising Quickly” shows off his acoustic guitar playing skills. This guy is on to something. www.joshuaenglish.com
SEAN FLINN & THE ROYAL WE- WRITE ME A NOVEL- SELF RELEASED- Portland cat who was in Jolie Holland’s band but decided to front his own band. He gathered up some talented Pdx folks (Rachel Blumberg, Laura Gibson, etc.). These 11 strummy, folky tunes weren’t bad but I certainly didn’t find myself getting really excited about any of them either. His songs might stand out in the future but the3se were just so so (my fave being “Fossil Radio”). www.myspace.com/seanflinnmusic
FREEBASS- TWO WORLDS COLLIDE ep- HACIENDA- Much ballyhooed meeting of the minds of Peter Hook and Mani (Stone Roses) plus a few other cats (Andy Rourke was a member but has since left). “You Don’t Know This About Me” (vocals by Tim Burgess) was a nice pop tune but the rest sort of pales. www.24hourservicestation.com
DAVID GERGEN- THE NEARER IT WAS THE FARTHER IT BECAME- SELF RELEASED- All-over-the-map dude who some feels like a cowpoke (as on “The Streets I’m Walkin) while at other times he brings to mind thee moodier stuff by American Music Club. The songs aren’t bad but not exceptional. I dunno, I think a live set would tell me more. www.myspace.com/davidgergen
NAOMI GREENWALD- DARKBLOOM- TRANSOM- LA (via NYC ) musician who recorded this record in between working on her PhD at USC. It’s obvious form these 10 songs that Stevie Nicks is a big influence as most of these tunes are mid-tempo sultry pop tunes. The opener “Evan Williams” is one of the best of the bunch as is the moodier “Don’t Forget Hallelujah.” Greenwald seems to be finding her footing and I’d be curious to hear more. www.transomrecords.com
JEFF GUTMAN- THROUGH THE NIGHT- MR KNEES- Way talented Bay Area guy who mixes different pop styles (ala Randy Newman or Harry Nilsson ) into a superb batch of 13 emotional pop cuts. Other than the harmony vocal and violin (done by his wife) Gutman plays everything on here. This far too short review will not do the record justice, but definitely give this one a chance. www.mrknees.com
DANIEL HARMANN & THE TROUBLE STARTS- RISK- BURNING BUILDING- Heard this described as “mope rock/’ and that does fit (think Red House Painters) but there’s something lively about these songs. The dirges have melody and Harmann has a real, almost soulful voice. Drink deep, my friends. www.hellotower.com
BRIAN HUBER- IMAGINATION OF OURSELVES- SELF RELEASED- Washington, DC area popster who apparently has gained some following ion his (novelty) song, “Snuggies” with its jangly guitar and spacey keyboards. The rest of the songs are mostly pleasant with a few aces (“Reverie”, “Talk Withouth a Word”, etc.). Not bad. www.brianhubermusic.com
JONAH- THE WONDER AND THE THRILL- JONAH MUSUIC- There is no one in this (Portland) band named Jonah but there is someone named Jules (and the singer/lyricists’s name is Henry Curl). The song definitely have a Coldplay/Travis feel to them but before you sneer these guys can write honest to goodness pop songs but unique hooks. The normal garage rocker might hate it but I can appreciate a good songsmith. www.jonahtheband.com
KIDNAPPERS- WILL PROTECT YOU- ALIEN SNATCH- Cool, punky power pop from…who knows where. These guys have a real 70’s flavor to them and would fit right tin on the Dirtnap label (a would all of the Alien Snatch stuff). Both “Sally” and “Out in the City” were a few of my faves but honestly, not a bad song on here. www.aliensnatch.com
LODEN- BUGGY- MUSH- Glitchy beats and scattered blips from this one man Scandanavian wrecking crew. Not normally my bag but I can groove to this, at least for shirt while but may cause twitching upon repeated plays. www.muchrecords.com
MAGNETIC ISLAND- OUT AT SEA- DISREGARD- Brooklyn trio led by the elusive Lisa Liu and these 5 songs harness all the power of post-punk with the melodic fuzz of shoegaze. The drummer, Jenny Johnson, impresses especially on opener “End in Bender.” Wish i would’ve listened to this one sooner. Good stuff. www.magneticislandbands.com
MAN RAY- SUMMER 88- HACIENDA- It ain’t Power, Corruption and Lies, that’s for sure (but tries to be). www.24hourservicestation.com
THE NUTCUTTERS- CLYDE!- KOI- Pop punk trip who resemble Green Day and sound like any average Fat band who hail from…..Switzerland? Damn, they sure look and sound American. www.koirecords.com
THE OLD CEREMONY- TENDER AGE- ALYOSHA – North Cackalackey bunch led by the elusive Django Haskins who has travelled the world and lived to tell about it. The songs on this record are hard to classify but would maybe fall into other pop real with buts of psych, noise and even some folks. The guy has a good ear and this one definitely needs a few spins in the cd player. www.theoldceremony.com
PARSANOID LOVESICK- TUEXEDO AVENUE BREAKDOWN (also, SUBURBAN POP ALLEGRO) - SELF RELEASED- This was a Detroit power pop band led by songwriters Bill Stone and Rick McBrien (the latter died suddenly in 2003) and I’m not sure if these are reissues but SUBURBAN.. was their proper debut while TUXEDO was their debut EP and some unreleased tracks. Both kick with some serious crackling energy, pop hooks and strong songwriting. If you dig the stylings of bands like Teenage Fanclub, Velvet Crush then this will be up your alley. www.paranoidlovesick.com
EARLY GATE MUSIC- S/T- BARSUK- Zach Tillman, younger brother of Fleet Foxes Josh, also records. This is a solo project recorded in, where else, his bedroom! The murkier, keyboard glop was unsatisfying but he can write a song when he wants to (check out “Big Escape”, “Oh, What a Time!”, etc.). Eh. www.barsuk.com
ADRIENNE PIERCE- OH DEER – INSECTGIRL- Canadian singer-songwriter who unleashes record #3 here with her school-girl like voice (that I happen to like) and her quirky pop tunes. Apparently she has had a handful of songs on tv shows and it quite popular in her homeland. You know, I like this gal! www.adriennepierce.com
PETER RUDY- MUD SHACK- BIG CHIEF- This Bay Area guy, who hails from El Cerrito (just like Creedence did) offers up a real nice mix on this record. The 10 tunes drift between rock, folk and blues and it all happens seamlessly with a real attention paid to songwriting. Good stuff indeed, my faves here are “Grow No Better Fast” and “Honus Wagner’s Bat.” www.peterrudymudshack.com
STARVING DAUGHTERS- CILL BIRTH- SELF RELEASED- LA quartet who pray at the alter of …I dunno, Black Sun Ensemble? MBV? Da’ Floyd? They get heavy and pretty wiggy all around (love that guitar on the awesomely titled “Scared Shitless at the Gates of Hell”). Don’t stop. www.myspace.com/starvingdaughters
THE VIRTUES- BEAUTIFUL GAME- ZIP- Swedish quarter who go for the big, emotional rock sound at times (I hear some U2 and Coldplay) while other times it’s more direct and poppier (I hear some Posies too) . The songwriting is good and it’s played with guts and passion. www.ziprecords.com
WILD WILD GEESE- SORRY, EARTH- ODESSA- No surprise that these guys hail from the tobacco state (or whatever North Carolina’s nickname is), they churn and burn like Archers of Loaf, Superchunk, Finger (remember them?), Polvo and a few others. And the best thing is that they remember the hooks. Yay! www.odessarecords.com
THE WINTERLINGS- THE ANIMAL GROOM- SELF RELEASED- Duo of Wolff and Amanda who play country inflected folk music that is pleasant and breezy. Amanda plays a banjitar and there’s no pic of them on the cover. I feel ripped off! www.winterlings.com
WOW & FLUTER- EQUILIBRIO!- MT. FUJI- Portland trio (led by a dude named Cord……..cool) have been around for over a decade and have plenty of releases to their name. This latest one wanders that curvy road where Krautrock, Anglo pop and straight up indie rock all converge and become pals. My fave was the straight-ahead “Scars’ but there’s plenty to dig here. www.mtfujirecords.com
Kidd Oblivion Tells you the truth…
ABE VIGODA – CRUSH – BELLA UNION – Started out sounding like the National, ended up sounding like Depeche Lode. You decide.
ASCETIC JUNKIES – THIS CAGE HAS NO BOTTOM – SELF – If you think that you would like a band that sounds like 10,000 maniacs crossed with the Squirrel Nut Zippers who sing bullshit songs about Jesus & hipsters then this record is for you!
BAMBARA – DOG EAR DAYS – EMERALD WEAPON – It seems contrary to refer to a record that sounds like buzzsaws grinding away at rusted, metal machine parts as “atmospheric,” but there you go… There are “vocals” in here somewhere but they’re more of an added layer than actual singing. In closing, this disc may actually set your speakers on fire so be careful.
JAY BANERJEE – KISSING BOOTH – XOXO – This is a clean, home-spun power-pop disc by a certified Beatle-maniac who is giving it all he’s got. (Kudos for the use of a nice 12 string Rickenbacker on this slab.) If he keeps at it, Jay will soon graduate to the ranks of other power-pop bands like the Hi-Risers, Blank Pages and the Squires of the Subterrain.
GARY BENNETT – YOU ARE NEVER NICE TO ME – RAUCOUS – This is the main guy from the slick / corny, 90’s country band BR-549 and his new solo stuff is just as milk-toasty. Give it up already, this shit is over.
BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS – ROCKSTEADY – BIG – Dear Tim: you’ve got to be fucking kidding me. Love, Kidd O.
THE BODIES OBTAINED - I CRY WHEN YOU CRY – FINDING YOU ATTRACTIVE – Self-described as “industrial noir,” complete with horrific cover art. I have decided to re-name this record “I cry when you sing.”
BOY EATS DRUM MACHINE – HOOP + WIRE – RIOT ACT – This disc was made by a computer program and then a hipster guy “sang” over it. Yeah, this is really good, you should definitely go buy this. (note: sarcasm)
CARNIVORES – IF I’M ANCIENT – DOUBLE PHANTOM – A perfect combination of the Mantles and Blood on the Wall. Hell yes.
CENTROVOL – MOMENTUM – SELF – Interpol meets Bon Jovi? The Rosebuds ripped off by Coldplay? Eurythmics crossed with Band of Horses? Death Cab covering Jay Z’s “NY” track? These are all just ideas…
DERU – SAY GOODBYE TO THE USELESS – SELF – This cd was broken into 5 pieces by the mailman so I couldn’t listen to it. I am thinking of stealing their album title for my next column though…
FAKE PROBLEMS – REAL GHOSTS CAUGHT ON TAPE – SIDE ONE DUMMY – Overwhelmingly average, mid-tempo college-rock that never rocks too much or strays too far in the “singer/songwriter’s feelings” zone either. Middle of the road all the way. Yawn.
FOX IN THE HENHOUSE – S/T – IBOT – “Sensitive” muscle-head gym music that will most likely show up in an episode of Jersey Shore.
GHOST OF A CHANCE – S/T – FEBRUARY – Lenola made this record 15 years ago and did it way better. Sorry New Haven, better luck next time…
GHOST BOX ORCHESTRA – S/T – SELF – Like the Mercury Program’s noisy little brothers. Quite good spacey-rock actually, well done.
HYTEST – DISHING OUT THE GOOD TIMES – MVD – Metallica with reverb, The Melvins with lame solos, or Van Stone without the funny. Try them, they all work.
ILL EASE – LAZER CRUST – IONIK – An absolutely dreadful combo of 70’s Bowie, Sir Mix-a-lot style drumbeats and pants-down-in-the-front-of-the-class vocals. Somehow the cover art and album title manage to be even worse! Seriously? Lazer Crust?
JUPE JUPE – INVADERS – SELF – Self-proclaimed sci-fi glam / synth-noir. Read as: bad techno club music full of keyboard farts and bad lyrics. In other news, Tim is a dickhead.
LED TO SEA – INTO THE DARKENING SKY – SCARY TROPHY – Limp indie-pop that sports plucked & bowed violins and a girl with some seriously warbly vocals. Music for a futuristic renaissance fair perhaps? Also: if you listen to this record you will NEVER get laid. Ever.
LOS EXPLOSIVOS – SONIDOS ROCANROL – GET HIP – Finally! Los Explosives (straight outta MexicoCity bitches!) krank out some awesome garage-punk that puts the pedal down and never looks back. Think Man Or Astroman / Mummies meets the Romantics and King Khan and you’re on the right track. Solid.
LOVERS – DARK LIGHT – BADMAN – Lovers are a lot like a female Postal Service who, like many, take their cues from the likes of Devo, New Order and the Magnetic Fields, but somehow manage to be a bit better than some of their peers such as Of Montreal, Au Revoir Simone or the Ballet. By the second time through I was digging this.
JOHN MCVEY – UNPREDICTABLE – SELF – A wretched combination of Bob Seger and John Tesh with a NJ accent. Thanks for this. Really, you shouldn’t have.
MIKEY JUKEBOX – S/T – YLOTW – Here we have some kids playing a super-punchy blend of MGMT, We Are Scientists, Phoenix and the Epoxies who aren’t ashamed to show their love of early 80’s releases like the Cars, Bowie and Big Country. I want to hate them, but they’re just so damned catchy! Check out “New Radio,” and try not to like it.
NEW MYSTERY GIRL – TWIST CITY – 10 LITTLE INDIANS – Plodding, predictable, played-out nouveau country from Austin, TX whose singer/songwriter sounds bored to death in her lifeless delivery of her own songs. 2 words: shameful.
THE NON – TADAIMA – SELF – I quite like the spacious, Mercury Program/Pell Mell stuff that the Non are shelling out and the recording quality is excellent. They should stop talking about how many people go to their shows in their press-kit though – that’s just bad form.
NO RESISTANCE – GENTLEMEN PREFER BOMBS – KOI – First off, the album title. Really? Secondly, no Oi band can have a girl in it – that’s an actual rule in the Rock Bible. Third, the bass player is named “Brickwall.” Shall I keep going? Ok, they’re from Houston, TX. That should settle it.
THE PIMPS - FUCK THIS SHIT WE’RE OUTTA HERE – CRUSTACEAN – Oh good, here’s something we need: redneck punk. The members of this wannabe Supersuckers/Rancid abortion include “Pancake Johnson,” on guitar, “Riverlips Cooper,” doing vocals, “Whatamess Watson,” on the slide geetar and “Pickles Smith,” handling the ‘catering.’ A few of the lyrical gems embedded in this pile of shit are “…gimme Nickleback, gimme fake tits,” and “it smells a little like puke because somebody puked a little in here.” Yes, folks we have almost completely de-evolved. Thanks to the Pimps for making the worst record of this issue!
RAIANNE RICHARDS – SIMPLE IN THIS PLACE – NOBODYS FAVORITE – Indie folk songs about birds and trees that sound like Megan Reilly circa 2002.
THE SHITTY FRIENDS – I’M SORRY… - PANCAKE PROD – Imagine Jad Fair with an accordion and you’ve got the gist. Nice band name fellas, I’m sure you’re going to be very successful.
SEVEN SATURDAYS – THE SNOWFLAKES THAT HIT US BECOME OUR STARS – FORCEFIELD – A bad, movie-soundtrack version of Japancakes from LA. My alternate title: “Bruce Hornsby on a ton of weed and valium, learns Pro Tools and buys a flange pedal.”
THE SEXY ACCIDENT – NOW THAT SHE’S GONE – SELF – My favorite description from their press-kit is: “complex yet accessible, mature rock and roll with brains and heart.” Translation: “Old dudes that like Yes and Gerry Rafferty who have been in a ton a shitty bands for decades, but keep on ‘jammin’ despite their wives’ pleas for a reprieve from the monthly gig at the VFW.”
SHADOW SHADOW SHADE – WHITE HORSE TRILOGY – SELF – Imagine the Danielson Family trying to play dance-y indie-pop while trying to rip off the Fleet Foxes at the same time. One of their band members won a Grammy and knows Kanye West so that should give you a pretty good idea of what we’re dealing with here.
SNUFFALUFFAGUS – BRAZIL WOOD POETRY – WIZARD SPIT – As you might have suspected by each, of the words in bold above, this is bouncy, Hippy drivel complete with annoying falsetto vocals and a muted trombone. Probably a big hit at Burning Man.
TIMMY’S ORGANISM – RISE OF THE GREEN GORILLA – SACRED BONES – An almost unintelligible recording of a band that combines elements of Devo, Six Finger Satellite, Suicide, Tom Waits and Danzig. Yeah, I’m not sure either…
YOUNG RIVAL – S/T – SONIC UNYON – Hamilton Ontario Canada’s answer to bands like the Goodnight Loving, Greenhornes, Adam & Dave’s Bloodline, Harlem, White Wires and the Boss Martians. Almost exclusively awesome.
Kidd Oblivion signing off.
Short Reviews By Rebecca Lianne
RUSTY ANDERSON – BORN ON EARTH – OXIDE RECORDS The intro track on this album makes no sense – at all. It’s like some weird “Pirates Of The Caribbean” instrumental nonsense that leads into a blatant Alice Cooper “School’s Out” rip off. The rest of the album is much more mellow and sounds like Michael Shelley, so it just made me want to listen to Michael Shelley, instead.
BARB – S/T – YEP ROC RECORDS Barb’s self-titled album got better with every track. It carries the perfect blend of electronica speaker-fuzz, eclectic instrumentals and group / wide-range vocals, all in an indie mindset. My favorite tracks include “Not A Bird,” “Martin XII,” and “Leo.” The whole album is rad though, so good for Barb.
ANDY BELL – NON-STOP – MUTE RECORDS My computer hated this record and wouldn’t play it - no matter how many times I tried to give it a chance. My computer may be an asshole, but judging by the album art and font styles of Andy Bell, he’s a bigger one.
CANBY – RAT – AQUI ESTAMOS RECORDS I love Canby. An adoring songwriter in the style of Matty Charles with crisp vocals and a lovely audible layout on every song– even through earbuds. While most of the tracks are sing-songy with sweet layers, the title track, “Rat,” shows a moodier, almost Sonic Youth side of Canby, which is equally as endearing. Stand outs include “ Reassurance,” “For Alex, Who Hates The Word Lonely” and “How To Start.”
ELSINORE – YES YES YES – PARASOL RECORDS Part of me wants to listen to this album again, and part of me wants to throw it out the window. The music is absolutely beautiful, but the vocals teeter on a line of something you’d hear belted to the back row at an American Idol competition (think Clay Aiken). There’s a disconnect between sound and voice that totally botches the potential of Elsinore. “Chemicals” may be the only exception.
FOL CHEN – PART II: THE NEW DECEMEBER – ASTHAMTIC KITTY RECORDS Fol Chen is fucking awesome. It’s like all of your guilty pleasures wrapped up in 10 tracks that sounds like a bunch of white kids making hip hop who are hiding it behind an electronica curtain. It’s got a bunch of freaky noise elements, which are always song-appropriate, especially in “This Is Where The Road Belongs.” Drunken dance parties will never be the same.
GATORFACE – WASTED MONUMENTS – NO IDEA RECORDS The release reads “For fans of Adolescents, Descendents, Dear Landlord, D.I. and The Ramones.” Yeah, because they just stole all of their bass lines and guitar sequences, so of course you’d listen to this shit. Gatorface sucks – POSERS.
THE LEN PRICE 3 – PICTURES – WICKED COOL RECORDS Leave it to the Brits to sweep me off my feet, time and time again. This English, power-pop album is so upbeat, happy (like The Kinks at a pop-punk show on speed) that it could make the biggest Debbie Downer bust a move. My favorite songs are “Pictures,” “The Great Omani,” “Mr. Grey” and “Nothing Like You.”
MAPS AND ATLASES – PERCH PATCHWORK – BARSUCK RECORDS This wasn’t immediately easy to get into. It’s a little art house overkill with the first two tracks, which seemingly have no relevance to the rest of the album. Maps and Atlases let their pop shine through in songs like “Solid Ground” and “Israeli Caves,” which makes the beginning of “Perch Patchwork” forgivable. Oh, and I adore the island feel of “Piegon” – sounds spot on.
NORFOLK AND WESTERN – DINERO SEVERO – 3 SYLLABLES RECORDS Something tells me Norfolk and Western are big Wilco fans. The low-key, melodic southern twang in their sound, as in songs like “Hiding Home,” makes me think of Being There. While the amped up punch exuding from “Turkish Wine” reminds me of Wilco’s latest work, Wilco (The Album). This band definitely holds its own – I wouldn’t consider them a knock-off in any way – but “The Long Goodbye” is almost a little too “A Ghost Is Born” if you ask moi.
SECRET CITIES – PINK GRAFFITI – WESTERN VINYL This totally sounds like I’m listening to the soundtrack of one of my dreams. It’s got the charm of Edward Sharpe and the whimsy of Sufijan Stevens (without being all annoying and sappy). Whistles, handclaps and the occasional sleigh bell – Secret Cities has me sold. Best tracks include: “Pink City,” “Slacker,” “Color” and “Pink Graffiti Part 1.”
SHAPES AND SIZES – CANDLE TO YOUR EYES – ASTHAMTIC KITTY RECORDS Every song by Shapes and Sizes is almost interesting and then becomes reaaaaaaallllly ffffuuuucccckkiiiinnnggg booooorrrriiiinnnnggg. Who knew nine tracks could make you comatose?
UNKOWN COMPONENT – THE INFINITE DEFINITVE – NO LABEL Nothing about this strikes me in any positive way, but I do get a kick out of Keith Lynch’s vocals because he sounds just like Weird Al. I’m waiting with bated breath for one of these pseudo-dramatic philosophies about life to bust out into a polka. Writing that is as embarrassing for me as it should be for Lynch, BTW.
JANUARY 2011
AGENT RIBBONS- CHATEAU CRONE- ANTENNA FARM- The Anetnna Farm label releases some interesting stuff (Still Flyin’, Bart Davenport, etc.). This female- led Austin, TX bunch are described as baroque pop but this ain’t Cardinal. For me some of the songs hit the mark (“Grey Gardens”) while others, like “I’ll let you Be My Baby” were more pretentious. Still trying to make up my mind about this band. www.antennafarm.com
KYLE ANDREWS- KANGAROO- ELEPHANT LADY- Nashville dude (via Chicago) who likes his pop music clean and with some electronics tossed in. These 6 songs are very good and I wouldn’t be surprised if I heard he writes commercial jingles on the side. “You Always Make me Smile.” Indeed! www.kyleandrews.com
AMY BEZUNARTEA- RESTAURANTS & BARS- KIAM- Beautiful and sweet folky indie pop from a Brooklyn, NY gal is also part of the duo Clint Michigan (also on Kiam). She’s really talented and I mean, come on, how can you NOT love that voice. My fave here was “Come Back to Me.” www.kiamrecords.com
BLACKLIST ROYALS- SEMPER LIBERI- NO IDEA- These guys have the greaser look down pat and have the songs to back it up. Yes, yet another band who does the whole Bruce Springsteen/Social Distortion/Gaslight Anthem thang but they do it well. Lots of rollicking pianos and catchy, singalong tunes. www.noidearecords.com
BORN RUFFIANS- SAY IT- WARP- Hard to sum up this Toronto band’s sounded in a few sentences so here goes. Crumbling/cascading guitar riffs, rumbly drums and bent, Frank Black-ish vocals. This one is much better than their debut. www.warp.net
BUSSES- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Anytime a press sheet says a band “draws from influences such as classic rock, jazz, prog and punk for an eclectic sound I run the other way. Busses sheet said this, I ran. www.bussesinternet.com
GRAHAM CZACH- LUCID- SLICED TOMATO- This Chicago rockers 12 song/50 minute tunes did not resonate with me. The guy has got talent (and oodles of press form the different bands he has been part of ) , but a lot of this was over-arching prog rock that I was bored with. www.grahamczach.com
DINOSAUR FEATHERS- EARLY MORNING RISERS- SELF RELEASED- 2 dudes from BKNY with a drum machine and some electronics but this is as warm as the cup o’ hot chocolate I had yesterday. Perfect X-mas music! www.dinosaurfeathers.com
DWARR- ANIMALS- DRAG CITY- Bent psych metal from this former South Carolina factory worker (Duane Warr). This was originally released in 1986 and I do not see a need for a reissue of it but the Drag City label apparently felt the opposite. It’s got timpani and gong! www.dragcity.com
ELECTRIC SIX- ZODIAC- METROPOLIS- 7 records in 14 years and they are still it doing….well, not sure what you’d call E-6. It’s abrasive but also dancey. I can take the tunes, it’s singer Dick Valentine who I have never liked. ZODIAC is not gonna change that. www.metropolis-records.com
FAILSAFE FOR TOMORROW- GIVE UP THE GHOST- KOI- Four young cats from the UK who are obviously influenced by several bands on the Fat and Epitaph labels. While it’s not super original or anything the songs are catchy and the band is tight. 6 songs. www.koirecords.com
THE FANTASY FOUR- GETTING FANTASTIC WITH…- PANCAKE PRODUCTIONS- This band features Bunnygrunt’s Karen Reid on bass and vocals while another gal, Marcia Pandolfi plays guitar and sings as well. The songs are hooky, snotty and will be of interest to fans of The Muffs. Good stuff. www.pancakeproductions.net
FILTHYBIRD- SONGS FOR OTHER PEOPLE- HOLIDAYS FOR QUINCE- Musically I enjoyed this North Carolina quartet’s sophomore effort, a heady brew of tweaked Americana and sorta paisley underground psych. It was vocalist Renee Mendoza that took me a while getting used to. She can occasionally wail which is not always my favorite but the band’s unique arrangements more than make up for it. www.holidaysforquince.com
THE FUTUREHEADS- THE CHAOS- DOVECOTE- These UK (from Sunderland, actually0 rockers were part of the class of 2004 (Kaiser Chiefs, Fran Ferdinand, etc.) and while not as hyped were better than most of their peers. THE CHAOS, while not their best record, still shows the band doing what they do best, writing intelligent pop songs that hammer away gleefully (think early Wedding Present). Nice. www.thefutureheads.com
THE GREEN PAJAMAS- THE RED, RED ROSE (SONG FOR PHOEBE PRINCE)-GREEN MONKEY- More top-notch acoustic psych folk from these longtime Seattle-ites (led by Mr. Jeff Kelly). The title track is dedicated to an Irish high schooler (from Boston, MA) who took her own life due to bullying. The rest is just as inspiring. www.greenmonkeyrecords.com
IDLE TIMES- S/T- HOZAC- From Seattle of all places comes this and offering up fried rock with heaps of noise and distortion served up like a steaming turkey dinner on the best holiday of the year. I hear some elements of real early Pavement (Slay Tracks) and leader Brian Standeford doesn’t bury the hooks too deep. You CAN hear them. www.hozacrecords.com
IN GRENADA- BREAK- SELF RELEASED- Terrific Philly band (led by Jesse Leyh) who , on their debut record, manage to bring to mind classic songwriting of bands like The Feelies, Television and The Bongos with their taut, precise tunes. Check out “It Doesn’t Matter”, “Beating Heart” and “Broken Castle” and go from there. Could be huge. www.myspace.com/ingrenada
DAN KWAS- DREAMS DIE HARD- FSR- This is the former Sidewalks guy Kwas returns with another terrific batch of jangle folk tunes (think The Byrds). 11 well-written tunes and one Stones cover (“The last Time”). Don’t miss the Johnny Cash-esque “Magic Touch” but honestly, there’s not a bad song on here. www.dankwas.com
THE MASONICS- LIVE LIKE A MILLIONAIRE- SELF RELEASED- Austin, TX bunch who offer up their 5th long player (first one I’ve heard) and bring to mind Stereolab , mainly on the vocals of Eryn Gettys. As I was listening to the songs I kept thinking I wanted to like them more than I do but a few do stand out (“Every Time This Happens”, “We’re Doing Alright”). Bet they’d put together a killer best-of from all their records. www.masonictheband.com
MINI-SKIRT FETISH- BEAN SHAPED TEARS OR 1998 OR BUST- ROADHOUSE- Old screwy St. Louie punk band who occasionally slip into 100 mph hardcore. 17 songs on here and recorded back in 2004. With nutjobs Peat Henry on vocals and Doug Hargrave on axe , this is all in good fun. www.roadhousetunes.com
SILJE NES- OPTICKS- FATCAT- One woman band from Norway. Gauzy and atmospheric. I think this is what they call “art rock.” www.fatcat-usa.com
THE OFFBEAT- IN LOVE FIELD- SELDF RELEASED- All you need to do is toss a baseball in the air and it will most likely hit a musician who is influenced by The Beatles. Most are lousy but some, like this UK bunch (led by songwriter Darren Finlan) are excellent. 5 of these tunes are on last year’s killer TO THE RESCUE ep and they add 5 more and all are superb. Do not miss. www.theoffbeat.co.uk
ONE HUNDRED FLOWERS- MECHANICAL BRIDE- STEM AND LEAF- Austin bunch with a good pop sensibility who at times recall both the New Pornographers and Nada Surf (no other N bands, though). The sounds is, at times, busy, involved and dense but the melodies shine through on most tunes. Lead Harrison Speck sounds like he could be an actor. www.onehundredflowers.com
JESSE PAYNE- NESTING- SELF RELEASED- Pretty, hushed folk (think Fleet Foxes) from this one man gang. I haven’t given it that many listens but I have a feeling I would love it if it did. The guy;’ got talent, it’s just that I have a stack of cds to review a mile high. I’m comin’ back to this. www.jessepayneonline.com
PEELANDER-Z- P-TV-Z- CHICKEN RANCH- Called a “Japanese Action Comic Punk Band” (who are based in NYC. The music is kitchy, catchy, goofy and fun. This also comes with a dvd (running over an hour). Musically nothing real mind-bending here but on stage they look to be A LOT of fun (costumes, dudes hanging from rafters, band handing out instruments to audience members ,etc.). www.chickenranchrecords.com
POPULAR MECHANICS- TIME AND A HALF- PANCAKE PRODUCTIONS- Nothing earth-shattering from this St. Louie, MO trio, just straightforward rock pop in the vein of late-period Husker Du and some Weezer too. Both “Terrible Habits” and “How’s My Singing Pt. 2’ are a few of the standouts. Well done gents. www.pancakeproductionsw.net
QUA- Q&A- MUSH- Aussie electronic wunderkind Cornel Wilczek must have a large bank of keyboards and drive his friends nut with them. This is a mix of electronic, dance, kraut rock and the like with lots of blips and bleeps. If I kept listening I could get into this. www.mushrecords.com
THE RIOT BEFORE- REBELLION- PAPER AND PLASTIC- Sophomore release from this Richmond, VA punk band who seem to be taking over from where Avail left off with tough , catchy tunes and a real working man’s attitude. They’re on their way. www.paperandplastic.com
EDWARD ROGERS- SPARKLE LANE- ZIP- More sublime pop form this Brit who relocated to NYC several years ago (he is also in Bedsit Poets). On SPARKLE LANE he brings us back to his home in yee olde England with songs like the title track (where his grandma lived) and “Guy Fawkes Nite.” Think Ray Davies in a melancholy mood and you’ll be close. www.ziprecords.com
SLEEPING IN THE AVIARY- GREAT VACATION- SCIENCE OF SOUND- Mid-western bunch led by the kooky Elliot Kozel. These guys, like a lot of indie bands these day don’t wanna be pigeonholed ans thus, are all over the map. Sweet, charming indie pop at one moment while merrily bashing away the next. Occasionally I hear some Talking Heads influence creeps in. They have some good ideas and about half of this was worthy (the loping “Weightlessly in Love’ and the head-boppin’ “You Don’t Have to Drive”). www.scienceofsound.com
THE SLEEP-INS- SONGS ABOUT GIRLS AND OUTER SPACE- INGOT ROCK- This Australian band hearkens back to the early 90’s sound of North Carolina. The band Polvo to be exact (some Pavement and Pixies too) . Wiry n’ weird guitar textures and some caveman rhythms fill up these 8 songs. Not exactly my cuppa tea but someone’s, I’m sure. www.ingotrock.com
SMASH PALACE- 7- ZIP- Yup, record #7 from these longtime power poppers led by seriously underrated songwriter Stephen Butler. The first S.P. record was released in 1985 and though the band has sporadically released stuff since then they seem to continue to get better and 7 might be their best. If bands like Badfinger and Cheap Trick are on your radar then Smash Palace should be too. www.ziprecords.com
ROB STROUP AND THE BLAME- GLASS CEILINGS-8 BALL- Portland bunch led by, you guessed it, Rob Stroup, with dudes from The Imprints and Baseboard Heaters doing some bluesy country folk. I dig both the uptempo stuff (“Camouflage Chameleon” ) as well as the slower, more languid material (“Columbus Day”). Lotsa talent here and songs too. www.blamerobstroup.com
TODD IS NEW EACH MOMENT- GLASS SWORD- NOISE FOR BOYS- They call this darkwave and , well…it’s SOMETHING wave. Dark, moody synthpop with very serious Ian Curtis-ish vocals. The synths rattle and hum and who knows, the whole thing might be a joke. I can’t tell. www.toddisneweachmoment.com
TRANSPORTATION- AMUSEMENT PARK- ODESSA- Chapel Hill, NC bunch who apparently have been at it for 12 years (same 3 guy also). I had no heard of them before but the 10 songs on AMUSEMENT PARK are solid rock/pop cuts. Some sneaky melodies, rocks in all the right places and lets up when it needs to. Can’t ask for much more. www.odessarecords.com
TWEAK BIRD- S/T- VOLCOM- Riff rawk done by two brothers from Illinois who landed in L.A. They delve into stoner, doom, psych, prog and the like. Not much on here for me but if you’re a Sabbath-head then Tweak Bird just might tweak your fancy. www.tweakbird.com
VICTOIRE- CATHEDRAL CITY- NEW AMSTERDAM- 5 classically trained women from NYC doing chamber rock with an, at times,. Electronic bent (the title track). Leader Missy Mazzoli certainly has some interesting ideas, adding loops/samples to the proceedings. Not something I’d put on very often, but intriguing/unique nonetheless. www.newamsterdamrecords.com
TROY VON BALTHAZAR- HOW TO LIVE IN NOTHING- THIRD SIDE- LA transplant (from where, I have no idea) who offers up some interesting electro folk. At times reminding me of Sparklehorse but then offering a more melodic sensibility on tunes like “Very Very Famous” and “Happiness and Joy.” I really liked about half of this. www.thirdsiderecords.net
THE UNWINDING HOURS- S/T- CHEMIKAL UNDERGROUND- Two dudes from Aerogramme (Craig and Ian) continue eon with another confounding band that shrieks when you expect hush and quiets when you wanna dance. For your next date play “There Are Worse Things Than Being Alone.” I dare ya’. www.chemikal.co.uk
WHEELS ON FIRE- LIAR, LIAR- ALIEN SNATCH- Chugging 60’s garage rock./pop from this Athens, Ohio bunch who take their influences , roll ‘em up and spit them out into a giant ball of fun. All they want is for you, dear listener, to have fun. That’s the least you can do, right? www.aliensnatch.com
V/A- THE MATINEE HOLIDAY SOIREE- MATINEE- Indie pop label matinee is spreading some holiday cheer with 5 (excellent) Christmas themed songs by Math & Physics Club, Northern Portrait, Bubblegum Lemonade, Strawberry Whiplash and Champagne Riot. Buy this NOW or you won’t be able to later. Capiche’? www.matineerecordings.com
SOME SHORT REVIEWS BY MR. JOSEPH KYLE
WILLIAM BRITTELLE- TELEVISION LANDSCAPE- NEW AMSTERDAM--Pretty, though not overly revelatory, folk music. Brittelle is a good singer, and the arrangements are interesting, A little piano here, a little string section there, but unfortunately marred by a same-y quality from song to song. Oh I don't want to write off this guy's talent, because there are some pretty songs here, but I just didn't dig the jazz-rock fusion types of things that popped up here and there. Some of these songs should have been instrumentals. (New Amsterdam Records)
Y LA BAMBA- LUPON- TENDER RLOVING EMPIRE-I wanted to like this record more than I did. They're going for a sorta Latin-style sound, not unlike Calexico or DeVotchKa. But they're not. I like the husky voice of Luzelena Mendoza, it's kinda Johnnette Napolitano-ish, but the music just seemed flat. Maybe it's better live, in a coffee house? I don't know. Just lacked a certain flair, lost underneath the passion and the uniqueness of the arrangements; and remember, kids--just because you are unique and original, doesn't guarantee your music will be good.
TWIN SHADOW- CASTLES IN THE SNOW- BEGGARS BANQUET--I started to listen to this, this quarter's much hyped new hipster-approved wunderkind on 4AD, and then remembered I have a number of better Modern English records I'd much rather listen to.
FAUN FABLES- LIGHT OF A VASTER DARK- DRAG CITY- After the first song, I was laughing so hard at the overly melodramatic earnestness and utter pretentiousness, that I had to turn it off.
INSTRUMENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY- MUSIC FOR PARADISE ARMOR- ASTHMATIC KITTY- I love Richard Swift, even though he's a bit of a contrarian when it comes to his music. This is a part of Asthmatic Kitty's Library Music series, and while the others in the series have been beautiful, this is kinda...not. It's incidental music, but not the easiest stuff to listen to. Some pretty moments, but a lot of self-indulgent noodles. No pop music found within, unless you mean literal "popping" sounds.
KRISTIN MILTNER- MUSIC FOR DREAMING AND PLAYING- ASTHMATIC KITTY- If I have one complaint about this record, it's the opposite of the Richard Swift record in this series. The music is gorgeous, and aside from "Altamont Pass" and "Dreaming Longing," (the total of which adds up to 20 minutes of the album's brief running time) the songs here are short, and I'd like to hear more! Beautiful, restful soundscapes that are perfect for, well, dreaming and playing. (Asthmatic Kitty)
DECEMBER 2010
ANTONY AND THE JOHNSONS- SWANLIGHTS- SECRETLY CANADIAN- More swoony stuff from the guy with the magical voice (and magical hands, if you’ve ever heard him play piano). If you haven’t heard Antony, well , who HAVE you been listening to? www.secretlycanadian.com
JAMES APOLLO- TIL YOUR FEET BLEED- NO ALERNATIVE- NYC folkie with several records under his belt. The guy is not out to please nor is he afraid to take chances. His stuff is in the Waits/Cave category (a little M. Ward/Howe Gelb tossed in to) and he is a true artist . The cruising at midnight-ish “Happiness” was my pick. www.jamesapollo.com
BACKSEAT DREAMER- THE COLORS OF DREAMS, THEY’RE IN YOU- STICKFIGURE- South Carolina native Sean Neuse has, what sounds like some synths, samplers and some tie moon his hands too. This debut is full of analog electronic pop with lots of blips. Think Dntel but just think. www.stickfigure.com
BETTIE SERVEERT- PHARMACY OF LOVE- SECOND MOTION- Can’t remember if I ever reviewed this or not but hey, Bettie Serveert have a new record out. You should really buy it. www.secondmotionrecords.com
THE BRITANNICAS- S/T- KOOL KAT- This band consists of an American (solo power pop guy Herb Eimerman), a Swede (Magnus Karlsson from The Charade) and an Aussie who used to live in Sweden (Joe Algeri from Jack and the Beanstalk fame). That jangly, ringing guitar means only one influence: The Byrds. The songwriting is strong on here (my pick to click is “Friday Night Alright (Come out and Play)” and I hope this supergroup records again. www.koolkatmusik.com
BROOKHAVEN- WHEN THE CHORUS WALKS- EXPEL- Ambient, instrumental guitar rock that has guitars. Yes people, real live guitars and drums and bas and even some violin and synths too. The leader’s name is Sonny James and anyone named Sonny has a license to rock. End of sermon, you’re welcome. www.expelrecords.blogsot.com
CASHES RIVERS- S/T- AQUIEST AMOS – Yes, this band name is the name of the leader of the band,. Apparently his was the unused baby name of a friend and after a debut ep last year this is their (his) debut full-length and there’s plenty of promise in this songwriter. At times mining some alt country terrain (think Calexico) while others more straight indie rock. Hard to categorize really but the one constant is strong songwriting . Don’t miss this. www.aquiestamosrecords.com
CHIEF NOWHERE- S/T- SELF RELEASED- 4 L.A. dudes (one being a Campanella, see The Quarter After, etc.) weaned on a diet of Zeppelin and Sabbath. This ios loud, heavy , stoner psych rock, not exactly my cuppa tea (I need more hooks) but what they do they do it well. And, wait, was that a flute on “Across the Purple Plain” ??! www.apolloaudio.com
DAFNI- SWEET TIME- DAFFER DOODLE MUSIC- LA gal on her 4th record (I never heard the first 3) but she has this gorgeous voice that lands right in the middle of Joni Mitchell and Billie Holiday while her backing band are all pros who keep it all laid back and low-key, at times mining country, folk and some jazz too. Perfect record for a lonely Saturday night or a lazy Sunday morning . Well done. www.dafni.us
JEFF EUBANK- A STREET CALLED STRAIGHT- YOGA (VIA DRAG CITY)- Long lost 1983 record by this Kansas City, MO native. I believe back then it was elf-released and sank without a trace. Basically it is soft pop/folk with the addition of some bizarre, Pink Floyd-ish synths. I don’t think it is a classic but I do feel like it is solid. www.dragcity.com
GOSPEL CLAWS- C-L-A-W-S- COMMON WALL MEDIA- Arizona bunch who impress on this, their debut full-length (they also have an ep out) with a interesting mix of wiry rock, some soul and …well, not really country but whatever flakes off on you in the Arizona desert to give your songs that dusty feel. Both “Walk Me Down” and “Summer Night Lakeside” were superb as are a few others on here. Reminded me of the Love Language in parts. Dig it. www.commonwall.com
THE GYPSY NOMADS- HAPPY MADNESS- E.A.- An NYC duo (she , Samantha, sings and does some other stuff while he, Scott, plays guitars and does more, they are also known as Frenchy and the punk) who mix a few genres (Celtic , punk, etc.) but I didn’t really hear any solid tunes here. I also didn’t hear the barrage of energy usually associated with this kinda stuff. www.thegypsynomads.com
JESCA HOOP- HUNTING MY DRESS- VANGUARD- Northen California hippy (and former nanny for Tom Waits) who’s all over the place on this, her 2nd record. It’s eclectic pop in the vein at times of Bjork and Kate Bush. Not something I’d listen to very often but I have to give her props for following her own path. www.vanguardrecords.com
CIRCE LINK & THE DISCOUNT CANDY FAMILY BAND- CALIFORNIA KID- BLACKWINGS – LA gal Link on her 6th record and this is basic bluesy rock. I mean, she has a really good voice but musically it didn’t so a lot for me (some of the guitar work was way too wanky for me). I did like the tender “Home Isn’t Home Without You” and a few others though. www.circelink.com
LEO LONDON- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Nice, heady brew of Elliot Smith, some Syd Barrett tossed in as well as The Beatles on this Eugene, Oregon dude’s debut. The guy has got talent and he obviously took his time writing the songs. My fave: “Caroline.” www.myspace.com/leolondon
MERMAIDS- TROPSICLE- PRETTY AMBITIOUS- Atlanta bunch who ditch their garage bands and form this, erm, “tropical-punk roc-doo woo band” and while that may sound ridiculous, it works. “Holiday” is probably playing at every house party in Hotlanta. Some surfy bits reminded me bit of The Fresh & Onlys so these guys are off to good start. www.pretty ambitiousrecords.com
THE MIGRANT- TRAVELS IN LOWLANDS- SELF RELEASED- In which our hero, Danish dude Bjarke Bendtsen traveled around the U.S. with his acoustic guitar writing and recording songs. Oh, he’s got plenty of friends helping out on violin, organ and, of course, the kazoo! The songs are good, sorta folky-poppy and reminded me bit of Jens Lekman, Yeah, I like this. You will too. www.myspace.com/themigrantmusic
NERVE PARADE- S/T- ROADHOUSE TUNES- No-fi grunt punk from St. Louie (I think) from guys who are PISSED the Rams haven’t had a winning season in a while. Don’t even get ‘em started on Mark McGwire. Best song: “Fucking Screwed.” www.roadhousetunes.com
EMMA POLLOCK- THE LAW OF LARGE NUMBERS- CHEMIKAL UNDERGROUND- Former Delagados gal Emma returns with her 2nd solo record. Her 2007 debut, WATCH THE FIRWEWORKS was terrific and this one is moodier, sparser and harder to grasp. Still some great moments on here (“I Could Be a Saint”, “House on the Hill”, etc.) but if you only have enough $ to get one, get the debut. www.chemikal.co.uk
HESTA PRYNN- CAN WE GO WRONG- REYNOLDS RECORDING CO- Ex-Northern State MC Prynn comes back with the smooth keyboard pop and no obnoxious rapping. Like the real mellow Go Team! Stuff (or at times, even St Etienne). 6 songs. www.hestaprynn.com 7
THE QUIT- STARS INVISIBLE BY DAY- TINDRUM- 2nd full-length by this Seattle quartet in search of an identity. They do the zippy, jangly pop pretty well but when they branch out on more ambitious numbers (like “Iron Ages”) things get a bit muddled. Still to tunes like “Captains of Industry” and you’ll be fine though. www.thequit.net
SMITH WESTERNS- S/T – FAT POSSUM- Young cats from Chicago who nail the whole punk/garage/glam/pop thang that the Exploding Hearts (rip) started nearly a decade ago. Good (occasionally great) songs . Buy this now. www.fatpossum.com
SARAH KIRKLAND SNIDER- PENELOPEP NEW AMSTERDAM- Apparently a song cycle with a chamber orchestra (and vocals by My Brightest Diamond’s Shara Worden) sorry but I found the whole thing to be terribly pretentious (which I could tell even before listening to a note of it, by the cover). I’m not saying there weren’t moments of beauty but overall, not my bag. www.newamsterdamrecords.com
SOLAR TEMPLE SUICIDES- SENTINELS OF THE HELIOSPHERE- SLEEPY- Druggy/doomy dudes from Baltimore creating a sludgy, turgid miasma ala Loop or Spacemen 3but unfortunately, the songs aren’t as good. I did like the dreamy, long titled, “How the Sphere, Having in Vain, Tried Words, Resorted to Deeds.” Trippy. www.sleepyrecords.com
STRENGTH- MIND-READER- SELF RELEASED- 3 Portland dudes (one who is a dead ringer for Jimmy Fallon) doing this mix of disco, glam and rap. Like Chromeo fronting the Stones (think “Miss You”)but then again, “Disaster” is more pumped up new wave so these guys like keeping us guessing. www.mypace.com/strength
THE SUGAR STEMS- THE SWEET SOUNDS OF…-DREAM ON/DUSTY MEDICAL- Swingin’ 60’s pop form this Milwaukee, WI band who go the chops and tunes to back up the swagger. Vocalist Betsy has the voice dreams are made of (my dreams, anyway). www.dor11.com
SUPER WILD HORSES- FIFTEEN- HOZAC- Amy and Hayley, two gals from Melbourne, Australia get down and dirty on this 12 songs debut. The voices are (occasionally) sweet but the guitar is murky and the drums, scattershot. Produced by an Eddy Current Suppression Ring dude and given just the right touch (check out “Mess Around”). . www.hozacrecords.com
FRANK TRIBES- LEAN OUT YOUR WINDOW- S.E.N.- Anyone who can open a record with such a great beach Boys-sounding song (and have it not suck,) id ok by me., “Find Yourself Alone” is the tune and this Chicago dude has apparently been at it for a while. A few of the tunes kick harder but the guy has knack for a good hook. Good enough for me. www.franktribes.com
WENTWORTH KERSEY- S/T- PLASTIC SOUND SUPPLY- Bootgazing duo from Denver who , with the ghost of ( the very much alive) Leonard Cohen in the passenger seat, create 8 swirling folk-pop tunes. You gotta hear the beautiful “Oxbox” (but honestly, all 8 songs are worth your time). Wow! www.wentworthkersey.com
NOVEMBER 2010
AUTUSTIC YOUTH- IDLE MINDS- DIRTNAP- Young cats from Portland who deliver on this, their 2nd record and truly bring the noise. Some of these tunes reminded me of the best Adolescents stuff (ie: the blue album) and you know that is a stellar endorsement. BUY Buy buy. www.dirtnaprecs.com
BETTY & THE WEREWOLVES- TEATIME FAVOURITES- DAMAGED GOODS- It’s always a good thing in the Hinely household when can remind me so much of the glory years of Tallulah Gosh and Heavenly. This UK bunch does it with a grip of good songs and that fist-pumping indie pop spirit. Start with “David Cassidy’ and move onward. . www.damagedgoods.com
THE BITERS- IT’S OK TO LIKE…- UNDERRATED- This Atlanta combo eschews the city’s love for garage rock and goes for a glammier, power pop sound with plenty of hooks and snooty vocals (think Stiv Bators). This hits that sweet spot right where The Dead Boys and Cheap Tricks tour busses crash then kiss. 5 songs. www.underratedrecordings.com
BLONDE REDHEAD- PENNY SPARKLE- 4AD- Less guitar and more electronics/synths and try as I may, I still do not hear much on here worth hearing. I’ve tried liking this band but I just don’t hear what others hear, I guess. I did enjoy “Not Getting There” but that’s about it. www.4ad.com
BRIDESHEAD- COME BACK 10”- APRICOT/SHELFLIFE- 4 new songs from one of Germany’s finest purveyors of jangle pop. The 4 songs “Weather Report”, “The World Stopped Turning”, “Me and the Stars and the Sea” and “Love in June” are all worth your time and there is no legacy soiling here. Welcome back! www.shelflife.com
THE CHEVELLES- BARBARELLA GIRL GOD- WICKED COOL- This Perth, Australia band has been cranking out their chunky, catchy power pop for nearly 2 decades and while they might be a big name down unda on our shores they are a footnote but hopefully this 16 songs comp, that includes 3 new tunes, will change all of that. Well worth checking out and they do a snappy cover of The Yardbirds “For Your Love.” www.wickedcoolrecordsw.com
CLOUD NOTHINGS- TURNING ON- CARPARK- A collection of early eps by this Cleveland, OH one man band (Dylan Baldi). It’s a bit of jumbled mess but there are some tasty melodies hidden beneath the soot. Reminded me a bit of the earlier Wavves stuff. I think this guy is on to something here. www.carparkrecords.com
CLUMSY GRACE- WENDELL NIGHTFALL TROUPE- RADIONIC- Interesting story here, two buddies from New Orleans, Norbert Wabnig (who after recording this started The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills) and Richard Duncan, packed their car and high-tailed it west to L.A. in 1974 seeking fame and fortune. Once settled, they added a rhythm section and some string players and recorded 11 songs and, well, most of this is good. Much of it reminded me of E.L.O. but with less bombast (and not as catchy melodies) . “Stardumb”, “Take a Chance” and the string-soaked “Take a Bow” are all worthy as are others on here. Well-worth seeking out. www.fourcatsradionic.com
RAWHIDE’S CLINT EAST WOOD- SINGS COWBOY FAVORITES- COLLECTOR’S CHOICE- Can it be? Yes it can….in the early 60’s Clint was not only a movie star but they wanted to make him a rock star too. Well, maybe not a rock star but you get the idea. This is real crooner type stuff and you know what? He doesn’t have a bad voice. www.ccmusic.com
ECHO REVOLUTION- COUNTERFEIT SUNSHINE- OPEN ARMS- This San Diego quartet has released 3 full-lengths since 2003 but this is the first one I have heard. They have a knack for some gooey melodies , at times low-key and other large than life (think Coldplay or U2). Vocalist/leader Lee Harding has some commanding vocals and there’s a good chance they’ll be huge (if the stars align properly). www.echorevolution.com
DAVE GLEASON- TURN AND FADE- 326- More straight up country goodness from this LA expat (Gleason was a mainstay on the bay Area scene for years). The guy is a true talent on geetar and has a fine cast of musicians backing him up. Bakersfield in the house! www.dave-gleason.com
GWYNETH & MONKO- GOOD OLD HORSE- SELF RELEASED- Mendocino, CA is the home for this duo, he plays and she sings (ok, so she plays too) and these 5 folky ballads are well worth your time. Kind of standard folk but Monko’s unique guitar work sets them apart. www.gwynethandmonko.com
HAM 1- LET’S GO ON AND ON AND ON WITH..- CLEFT- Athens, GA-ite Jim Willingham is back with his unwashed friends from college town USA on this, his whateverth record. Through howevermany releases this guy has remained remarkably consistent with his fractured pop. Plenty of good stuff to like here but start with “It’s Only a Dream Unto Itself”, “Franklin”, “Thinking Ahead of Myself” and plenty more. Thus guy deserves a steak dinner (but probably doesn’t eat meat). Well done chap! www.cleftmusic.net
HYPERBUBBLE- CANDY APPLE DAYDREAM- BUBBLEGUM- These two, Jess and Jeff, hail from Houston(“Synth City”) and boy, they love their synth pop. She sings and plays a keyboard, he handles the synths and sequencers and as it says in the cd sleeve, “100% guaranteed electronic, no strings attached.” Fun, catchy synth pop. Best song titles: “Chop Shop Cop” and “Teddy Bear Crime Wave.” Well done! www.hyperbubble.net
THE INNOCENCE MISSION- MY ROOM IN TREES- BADMAN- 9th studio record from the husband and wife duo of Don and Karen Peris , straight outta Lancaster, PA. Their 2 decade run has remained remarkably solid and consistent and this record is, well, more of the same. Genteel folk pop with Karen’s unmistakable vocals (think Mazzy Star minus the drugs). www.badmanrecordingco.com
JUKEBOX THE GHOST- EVERTHING UNDER THE SUN- YEP ROCK- Ebullient Philly trio who on their sophomore effort up the cheeriness of the harmonies and melodies at times to a fault. Yeds, it’s catchy, insanely catchy but at times the band can get under your skin. Still, if you want to find the missing link between Ben Folds, Billy Joel, Weezer and Queen, here it is. One listen to the opener, ‘Schizophrenia” will decide it for you. www.yeproc.com
TERRY KNIGHT AND THE PACK- S/T/ REFLECCTIONS- COLLECTOR’S CHOICE- Flint, Michigan garage band who had some regional hits back in the late 60’s but leader Knight was more known for putting together a more famous band: Grand Funk Railroad (the Pack includes 2 of those members). Not bad psych-garage-pop on here but not essential. www.ccmusic.com
THE LOVETONES- LOST- PLANTING SEEDS- More beautiful psych pop from Aussie Matthew Tow. This records seems to tone down the fuzz a bit and focus more on acoustic tunes , which suits his style just fine. A definite Beatles influence (and some Pink Floyd as well). The title track reminded me of the best Clientele tunes. This might be my favorite record by them yet (and I have liked all of their previous ones). www.plantingseedsrecords.com
MOTHER JAMES- STOMPING GROUND- ZIP- Nice mix of bluesy soul and 60’s pop from this Swedish cat named Stefan Pettersson. I hear a definite Randy Newman/Harry Nilsson influence here and the guy adds some nice pop hooks. My fave: “Until You Come Around.”
CASHES RIVERS- S/T- AQUIEST AMOS – Yes, this band name is the name of the leader of the band,. Apparently his was the unuused baby name of a friend and after a debut ep last year this is their (his) debut full-length and there’s plenty of promise in this songwriter. At times mining some alt country terrain (think Calexico) while others more straight indie rock. Hard to categorize really but the one constant is strong songwriting . Don’t miss this. www.aquiestamosrecords.com
HE SAFES- DOUBLE SINGLE- MERRFIFIELD/ WEE ROCKT- I believe this cd I a collection of two singles by this terrific garage pop band that calls Chicago home. The band consists of the O’Malley brother, Patrick and Frankie and their friend Patrick Mangan. “She’s So Sad” and “Youth Cult” are among this best but all 5 of these tunes are worthy. Killer. www.thesafes.com
SECRET COLOURS- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Windy City bunch doing authentic 60’s psych with excellent songwriting. Akin to the best stuff by the Brian Jonestown Massacre. These guys need to be heard…now. Indulge. www.secretcolours.com
STARS- THE FIVE GHOSTS- SOFT REVOLUTION/VAGRANT- Canadian posters who return to the scene of the crime on this, their 5th record recorded ar home with Tom McCall and the band makes no great strides on this one , instead choosing to play it safe but still, the songs are among their best. I hear bits of Sufjan, Postal Service, Smiths (‘natch) and more. www.vagrant.com
TENNIS SYSTEM- THE FUTURE OF OUR HISTORY- APOLLO AUDIO- Nice fuzzed-out drone pop from our nation’s capitol. Instead of studying all of the Dischord releases leader Matthew Taylor was inspecting his My Bloody Valentine collection. “Beautiful Mistake” was my pick to click but plenty to like here,. www.apolloaudio.com
TRASHCAN SINATRAS- IN THE MUSIC- LO FI LOVE- They’re back…..yes it is only their 5th record in two decades but that is ok, we love ‘em anyway. This record with its 10 original songs comes with 8 bonus tracks (all live) and they’re ok but the 10 studio tracks show the band what they do best: create, lilting, literate pop sung with grace and beauty. www.trashcansinatras.com
YEAR ZERO- YEAR ONE- YOUNG MODERN- Canadian bunch (Ottawa) who seem to swipe a definite inspiration from Husker Du with the clean, melodic approach. It looks like this is a collection of two eps and the band has a good pop sensibility and the songwriting is strong. Check out “Seasons.” www.myspace.com/yearzeroottawa
OCTOBER 2010
ANTARCTICA TAKES IT!- CONSTELLATIONS- SELF RELEASED- Charming bedroom pop (occasionally drifting into thee chamber) by a Santa Cruz cart named Dylan McKeever. I went from being annoyed by it to really liking it within 5 minutes. “Stay in Bed” was my fave. Yeah! www.myspace.com/antarcticatkesit
OLOF ARNALDS- VIO OG VIO- ONE LITTLE INDIAN- Icelandic chanteuse on her solo debut. The songs are bucolic and folksy (and she has a unique but unusual voice (ala Bjork).
PHIL AYOUB- ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURTES- SELF RELEASED- Educated type with an MBA in one hand and his guitar in the other. These are hooky-laden , rock/pop tunes in the vein of Ryan Adams or at times Dylan though more ebullient than either. Opener “The Bearded Lady” perfect sets the tone of the record and most of this baker’s dozen are worth of your time. www.philayoub.com
THE BELLES- TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE LOSING YOUR MIND- S-CURVE- Lawrence, KS duo of Chris (guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards) and Jake (drums and samples) who create some pleasant indie rock tunes here with touches of folk and psych too. The opening title track will give you an ideas of whether it’s your thing or not. www.s-curverecords.com
BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS- ROCKSTEADY –BIG- Yes, I got sent it. No, I’m not sure why. Yes, it sucks.
THE BLACK DRUMSET- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Interesting Austin, TX duo (though one, Brian Wiley, writes all the songs) mixing elements of dub, krautrock, electronic fuzz,, psych and rock into one sonic stew. Not what you hear every day but done well. www.myspace.com/theblackdrumset
THE BLACK PACIFIC- S/T- SIDE ONE DUMMY- This is Jim Lindberg’s new band. He was the former frontman for Pennywise. The 10 songs on here don’t stray too far from his former band with a new more Bad Religion-isms and a few more metallic flourishes. “The System” is a great tune as is “Time is Not the Reason.” www.sideonedummy.com
SEBASTIAN BLANCK- ALIBI COAST- RARE BOOK ROOM- This is one of those records that is really good and deserves a much longer review than this but time is in my way. This NYC pop meister (ex-Black Dice guy and a RISD grad) has created a gorgeous web of acoustic guitars and strings into some lovely intricate pop songs. Stellar! www.rbrrecords.com
CHATHAM COUNTY LINE- WILDWOOD- BLUEGRASS- This was my first exposure to this North Carolina and on this, their 5th full-length sounds like I have some backtracking to do. The songs take elements of bluegrass with plenty of pop hooks and some terrific harmonies. The opening title track is gorgeous as are several others here. Don’t miss. www.yeproc.com
THE CLUTTER FAMILY- S/T- SELF RELEASED- L.A. songwriting duo of Jim Earl and Chris Hobbs write clever, catchy ditties. On drums (and producer) is Matt North who I remember from that fine Hail the Size cd I reviewed earlier this year. Songs about Moe Howard, Jon Benet Ramsey and Sarah Palin are occasionally clever and at times sorta idiotic but the songs are catchy. www.myspace.com/theclutterfamily
DELOREAN- SUBIZA- TRUE PANTHER SOUNDS- You’ve already heard this (or at least t read about it). Spanish quartet doing densely-layered dance music with plenty off hooks (think New Order and Primal Scream). www.matadorrecords.com
MIRANDA DODSON- CHANGE A THING- SELF RELEASED- With the help of Future Clouds and Radar’s Robert Harrison (and Spoon’s Josh Zarbo) this Austin, TX singer/songwriter transforms these 10 songs from everyday fare to soulful experiences that tug at your heart. She has a powerful, soulful voice , part Patty griffin and, at times, part Dusty Springfield. Cuts like “Slow Motion’ and the sultry, “Home” are just two of the winners here. www.mirandadodson.com
DOMINANT LEGS- YOUNG AT LOVE AND LIFE- LEFSE- This is the same duo that opened for Girl earlier this year (and one half of the duo, Ryan, plays guitar in Girls). Four songs of Euro dance pop. A bit of it reminded me of Trembling Blue Stars plus some Style Council. Good stuff! www.lefserecords.com
ELK CITY- HOUSE OF TONGUES- FRIENDLY FIRE- These ex- Melting Hopefuls offer up their 5th record in 10 years and this is more of the same , ambitious, soaring indie rock that the last few records offered. Vocalist Renee LoBue certainly has a fine set of pipes and musically, while at times a bit pretentious, the songs are usually good too. www.friendlyfirerecordings.com
FAIRCHILD REPUBLIC- SHIPS ARE FOR SAILING- SELF RELEASED- 5 song ep from this real young Aussie band (average age seems to be 20) who go for epic stadium rock (think Coldplay, U2, The Killers, etc.). Not my thing but someone’s, I’m sure. www.myspace.com/fcrepublic
FLOGGING MOLLY- LIVE AT THE GREEK THEATRE- SIDE ONE DUMMY- In the 10 years I lived in the Bay Area I never did make it to the Greek. I’m kinda bummed. Aw well, LA’s Flogging Molly played there and this 2-cd set and it sounds like it was a blast. Fact; if you like The Pogues then you’ll like F.M. www.sideonedummy.com
AARON FOX & THE RELIABLES- LATE TOO SOON- SELF RELEASED- Chicago quartet led by, you got it, Aaron Fox and they do the regular rock/pop thing. Nothing earth-shattering here but some fine songs, especially the Replacement-ish opener “Looking for a Place to Hide.” Well worth a gander or two. www.aaronfoxband.com
FRANKENSTEIN 3000- THEY’LL BE WAKING UP SOON- MAIN MAN- 2nd collection of covers (after 2005’s AMERICANS HIT REMAKERS). This begins with a snarling Cheap Trick cover (“Hello There”) followed by a raging Clash one (“Safe European Home”). They also do justice to The Cars (“Bye Bye Love”), Warren Zevon (“Werewolves of London”), David Bowie (“Queen Bitch”) and several others. Nice. www.mainmanrecords.com
GOOD OLD WAR- S/T- SARGEANT HOUSE- Good-hearted hippies who smile a lot, don’t shave, don’t wear shows and do wear patchouli but hey when they can write songs this good then we give ‘em a free pass. Not totally unlike the Fruit bats who they might wanna tour with. My fave was “That’s Some Dream.” www.sargenthouse.com
GRAHAM REPULSKI- MAN POP- SHORTER- From my native NJ comes Mr. Graham Repulski. It’s nearly impossible to listen to this and not be immediately reminded of early-mid pd. GBV. That scratchy, catchy guitar and those vocals and the short songs. Still Graham is on to something here, most of these 13 songs are really good. ( I don’ t think he even has a myspace site…wtf graham?!)
GRAYDON- S/T- SELF RELEASED- The band name (and gray album cover) doesn’t fit their sunny LA disposition. This 11 song collection of bouncy pop tunes would fit in well with other bands like Weezer and Rooney (especially the latter). Leader Matt Miller probably has some jingles on tv shows and that’s ok, this stuff, while occasionally cheesy, is catchy. . www.myspace.com/graydonmusic.com
BRETT HARRIS- MAN OF A FEW WORDS- SELF RELEASED- This talented singer/songwriter calls Durham, NC home and has released an ambitious poop record here with nods to the Beatles, (‘natch), ELO and several others. Opening cut “I Found Out” is a chugging yet gentle pop tune while “Mansfield” was bouncier and both are ultra catchy. MAN OF A FEW WORDS is definitely a cut above. www.myspace.com/brettharrismusic
KNOCK ‘EM ALIVE- COUNTLESS TIMES- STOOPS DREAM- Record #2 from this NYC one man band made up of one, John Gruber. He is a native New Yawker who remembers the old days (the blackout, Son of Sam, etc.). He writes some seriouslycatchy tunes to and genre jumps a bit too which is fine. Check out the power pop opner “You Better Behave Yourself”, the electro pop of “My Own Scientific Poll”, the jangly “Counterintuitive Karen & the Countless Times” and that’s the first 3 songs. Nice! Produced by Roger Fife. www.knockemaliveband.com
NATHAN LEIGH- GLITCH ep- SELF RELEASED- 7 songs of synth pop by a dude who sounds real young. He does an interesting cover of Depeche Mode’s “Just Can’t Get Enough” with an acoustic guitar and plenty o’ samples. www.nathanleigh.net
LIGHT POLLUTIONS- APPARITIONS- CARPARK- hicago area band led by one, Jim Cicero who apparently locked himself into a 30,000 square foot warehouse (!!??) and recorded this. Some pals came by later and rescued him from his aloneness and APPARITIIONS is a nice mix of pop, shoegaze, psychedelia. There’s a hazy gauze of synths mashed together on most of these songs with Cicero’s lonely vocals and slammed drums. . At times it’s beautiful while others it annoyed the shit out of me. www.carparkrecords.com
WHITNEY MANN- THE WAY BACK HOME ep –SELF RELEASED- Raspy, downcast country form a Madison, WI lass with a sweet, heartbreaking voice. My pick was the opener “Call the Cops.” Nice. www.myspace.com/whitneymann
CHRIS MATTHEWS & ROBOT MONKEY ORCHESTRA- THE MAP OF LOVE- ROBOT MONKEY RECORDS- This is the same New Zealander who was the leader of the Headless Chickens and a member of This Kind of Punishment. These 9 songs run the gamut to driving , normal rock to weirder, more experimental gunk. I prefer the former but appreciate the later a well. “Spire Cranes” was my fave here (which is a bit of both). . www.myspace.com/robotmonkeyorchestra
MONUMENTS- S/T- THE PERIODIC LABEL- This BKNY quirtet is on to something here. I mean, you’ll definitely hear elements of bands like Radiohead and Muse on this s/t debut but they expand upon it with a heavy dynamic of low-end rumble, arpeggioed guitars , pounding drums and the passionate vocals of leader Gabriel Berezin. They could be huge. Check out “Not My Own” and “Silver Star’ for starters. www.monumentsmusic.com
MOUSE FIRE- BIG EMOTION- LUJO- Emotive indie rock form a Florida trio who know how to make the kids cut rug. This has some danceable rhythms while at other times was more DCFC-ish and more downbeat. Get your dancing shoes on. www.lujorecords.com
NEIL NATHAN- THE DISTANCE CALLS- PIRATE VINYL- This NYC cat is a fine songwriter, at times echoing the power pop-ness of a Matthew Sweet and others like one of those So. Cal singer-songwriters of the 70’s. He got some Detroit heavies to help out (including The Go’s Bobby Harlow, who produced it as well as Dean Fertita, Joey Mazzola, etc.). The breeziness of “California Run” was among my faves but really, there’s plenty to like here. www.neilnathan.com
NO SECOND TROY- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Wash, DC quintet who have been at it for 6 years. These 12 songs feature Jeff Wharen’s raspy vocals , Mike Beach’s unique keys and Tom McCarthy’s inventive guitar work. At times I wish it was a bit hookier but still, it is always interesting. www.nosecondtroy.com
PINANA PROTEST- PLETHORA- SAUSTEX- This San Antonio band mixes the traditional Mexican music that its members grew up listening to with a punk attitude and a wild accordionist. Sometime I’m not always sure what they’re on about but while staunchly political, they know how to have a good time too. www.saustexmedia.com
THE PUBLIC GOOD- A VARIED PROGRAM OF STEREO DYNAMICS FOR YOUR WILD NIGHTS ALONE and NO. 1- LOST LYRICS- Ex-Popes guys John Elderkin and Steve Ruppenthal emerged last year with this new power pop band. Bo. 1 is form 2009 and the other one is this years. Elderkin’s voice takes some getting used to but the guitars crunch and there’s plenty of hooks. Solid. www.thepublicgoodonline.com
SARA RADLE- FOUR- JEEZ LOUISE- You may not have heard of this Texas native, now based in LA, but she was in the Rentals with Weezer’s Matt Sharp and is in Waking Sleep. On her 4th solo outing (first I’ve heard) she mixed deeply persona lyrics with chiming, charming upbeat pop tunes (opening lyrics of opening song, “I am damaged good, I’ve got baggage” on “Fooling Nobody”). Seriously check this out, she has a knack for clever melodies and FOUR is full of them. www.jeezlouiserecords.com
RECIFE- DOLDRUMS- DEAD BEES- French band who do mostly trippy, folky pop songs. A few nice melodies here and there but didn’t do a lot for me. www.deadbeesw.com
THE RUINERS- HAPPY BIRTHDAY BITCH- PRAVDA- Glammy/metallic rock with some punk flourishes from this band who all share the same last name: Ruiner. There were some cool Dead Boys-ish moments and the guitarist eeks out some cool stuff but with songs like “Charlie Laine ate my Brain” and “Beer Time” , this is just too gimmicky for me. www.pravdamusic.com
SAREDREN WELLS- MEMORIES ARE HUNGING HORNS= LOUISVILLE IS FOR LOVERS/RINEHART- Loner folk from one Drew Sellers. The songs are mostly spare acoustic tunes with gently plucked guitar but at times he has a cast of thousands adding strings and horns to the more ambitious songs. I’d like to hear more. www.rinehartmedia.com
THE SILENT BOYS- PRINCESS BY THE SEA- WALRUS- Glad to see that this low-key Virginia pop band, led by the very talented Wallace Dietz, is still at this. This is record #5 (it’s a 7-song ep ,not counting their comp of late 80’s stuff, PROGRESSION, released last year). This is basically jangly indie pop in the Creation or Sarah Records vein but with a bit of Factory Records moodiness to it. And some of Dietz’s best songs too. Don’t miss! www.silentboys.com
SILIAN RAIL- PARHELION- PARKS AND RECORDS- Unique instrumental duo who make the most of what they’ve got. Lots of shifts in dynamics and it seems like these two have played together for decades (which maybe they have). A bit Slint-ish at times. www.parksandrecords.com
THE STREETS ON FIRE- THIS IS FANCY- SELF RELEASED- Chicago bunch who go the Art Brut way and make music that’s sort of dancy (of you have 2 left feet, like me) but with some cool jarring guitars and grunted/howled vocals. Best song title: “No One’s Fucking to the radio.” www.thestreetsonfire.com
THE SUNSET CURSE- ARTIFICIAL HEART- SELF RELEASED- Electronic pop that I hesitate to call synth-pop though it does go there on occasion, Apparently the band calls it “electropnic thrash rock? But I hear very little thrash. Still, most of the songs are decent to good.
SURFER BLOOD- ASTRO COAST- KANINE- No doubt you’ve already heard this heavily-hyped Florida band but I hadn’t til recently and their debut is a solid mix of 90’s alterna pop (think Weezer with a dash o’ Pavement) mixed with some nice 60’s melodies. More dash than flash. www.kaninerecords.com
THE TAMBORINES- CAMERA & TREMOR- BEAT-MO- We first heard this terrific Brazilian duo on an ep on the Planting Seeds label a few years ago and here is their debut full-length. Still taking their cues from, Jesus & Mary Chain, Brian Jonestown Massacre and Spaceman 3 (Velvets, too) the grind out 11 fuzzed-out pop tunes. The previously released “Sally O’Gannon” is on here as is the superb “31st Floor”, “Come Together” and plenty more. Indulge. www.thetamborines.com
THE TANGERINES- IN SEASON- SELF RELEASED- Swedish duo of Per and Hakan cranking out 16 songs of pure pop. Think Teenage Fanclub, The Beatles, The Lolas, The Byrds, etc. etc. Well done chaps. www.mysoace.com/tangerinesmusic
TINY LITTLE BLACKOUTS- IDEA OF ALICE- ROBOT 123- San Francisco band doing melancholy tunes ala Cowboy Junkies but not as good. Erm, a bit too “regular rock for me and I found vocalist Cameron Ember’s vocals to be a bit on the annoying side. www.myspace.com/tinylittleblackouts
TRAMPLED BY TURTLES- PALOMINO- BANJODAD- It get’s awful cold in Duluth, MN , where this band hails from so what else is there to do? Lock yourself in a basement and come up with some cool basement punk. The fiddler on this band is playing his heart out while vocalist/guitarist Dave Simonett is workin’ double time to keep up…but he does. This review isn’t long enough to do the band justice but well worth checkin out. www.trampledbyturtles.com
THE TRUTH ABOUT ANTS AND APHIDS- S/T- PREMIUM FANTASY- Don’t worry, I hate the band name too. This is New Mexican Kevin Hume who offers up 12 songs as part of a 4-part song cycle. It’s folky but there’s the addition of strings and woodwinds on several songs. A few songs reminded me of Belle & Sebastian. Despite that name, it’s really good. www.premiumfantasymusic.com
TYPHOON- HUNGER AND THIRST- TENDER LOVING EMPIRE- Interesting Portland bunch who create pop music that is hard to categorize. I’ve never seen and don’t think they play out very often. It is the songs of one guy, Kyle Morton but he has a large cast of friends helping out. Not sure this is something I’d listen to very often but I give the guy major props for creating it. “CPR/Claws. Pt. 2” was pretty amazing. www.tenderlovingempire.com
UNICYCLE LOVES YOU- MIRROR, MIRROR- HIGHWHEEL- Enjoyed this Chicago trio’s debut form s few years ago and bits of this were ok but overall, this is kind of mess. The songs get too bogged down in spilling synth work and the whole thing seems too unfocused. I did like the female-sung, “Quagga” and a few others but something about this really bugged me. www.highwheelrecords.com
UNIFORM MOTION- LIFE- SELF RELEASED- Slowly moving stuff that occasionally reminded me of Midlake but U/M.’s songs aren’t as good. Not bad though. www.uniformmotion.net
VANISH VALLEY- S/T- HARD BARK- Meandering country folk from this guy Andrew McAllister who used to be in Seattle’s Conrad Ford (heard at least one of their records and liked it). This is a bit sparser, moodier but still compelling at times. “Homes Fires” and “Sinking Ships” were my faves. www.vanishvalley.com
LIEF VOLLEBEKK- INLAND- NEVADO- Canadian folkie who brings to mind the work of Nick Drake, Jose Gonzales and Davendra Banhart. Most of it has a unique slant but at times it slips into like a Jack Johnson territory and that is not a good thing my friends. The guy has oodles of talent, let’s just hope he doesn’t go down THAT road. www.nevadorecords.com
WEBER BAND- SIDEALKS- SELF RELERASED- You’ve heard this kind of smooth pop/jam band kinda stuff before (think Jason Mraz. It’s got no edge at all, just dull. I’m sure they’re hit on the bar band circuit. www.weberband.com
WESTERN AERIAL- TRY TO KEEP UP- SELF RELEASED- Hooky, meat-headed riff rawk from Portland. This trio brings to mind Aerosmith so I’m sure that crowd likes em’ but I didn’t. www.westernaerial.com
WHITE FENCE- S/T- WOODSIST- I missed the boat on this one. Have had it for a few months but it got lost in the shuffle. This is guy is a member of the Strange Boys (and played with The Fall too). This is tweaked 60’s psych pop, and , as someone said “like Arthur Lee minus the budget or guns.” I can’t say it any better than that. www.woodsist.com
JEN WOOD- FINDS YOU IN LOVE- NEW GRANADA- This is the ex-Tattle Talers first record in 8 years. Not sure what she has been doing in the meantime but she doesn’t seem to have lost a step. This is mesmerizing, folk/pop music. Not for days you want to jump out of bed, more for days you want to stay in bed. For fans of Cat Power. www.newgranada.com
WOVEN BONES- IN AND OUT AND BACK AGAIN- HOZAC- Awesome power trio fuzz by this Austin, TX band who merrily bash away for around 30 minutes on this ,their debut record (after several eps). Vocalist/guitarist Andrew Burr has one of those cool voices (like Anton Newcombe) that would sound good reading the Bible while the pounding rhythm section is more than able to keep up with his righteous guitar sputter. www.myspace.com/wovenbones
SEPTEMBER 2010
SCOTT ALEXANDER- MAKES A BIG DEAL OUT OF IT- SELF RELEASED- I just reviewed this guy’s other cd a few months ago (MAKES 7 OR 8 DOLLARS). Busy bugger , aren’t you? He writes dramatic/goofy stuff that could count as rock opera. “Everything is Complicated” has lovely female vocals as well as horns and strings. Some of this is ambitious and other gunk is easily forgettable. Hey, he got me to listen. www.scottalexandermusic.com
ALKALINE TRIO- THIS ADDICTION- EPITAPH- Very catchy pop punk by this long-time Windy City trio. Apparently this is a return to form meaning more pop and less goth. The title track is a fine song as is the story telling of “Off the Map.” Leader matt Skiba has a knack for some obvious yet totally sticky melodies. I’ll spin this one on occasion. www.epitaph.com
AM TAXI- WE DON’T STAND A CHANCE- VIRGIN- Just by the picture on the cover I had ‘em pegged as Gaslight Anthem wannabees (who in turn are Springsteen wannabees). You’ve heard it before, Warped Tour punk with some heart that usually sounds cheesy. Yup, that is AM Taxi. www.virgin.co
ARIEL PINK’S HAUNTED GRAFFITI- BEFORE TODAY- 4AD- Wow, this guy truly is a kitchen sink musician. I had hear some of his previous stuff but on BEFORE TODAY he grabs pop samples/bits from all different generations and smushes it all together into one unique stew. You’ll hear fuzzed-out guitars, horns, synth work, falsetto vocals and the like but he’s able to make the whole thing listenable. Check out “Beverly Kills” and “Little Wig” (among other stuff). www.4ad.com
DAVID CROSS- BIGGER AND BLACKERER- SUB POP- I have a few other of comedian Cross’ cds and I usually end up loving about two thirds of the material on them. This was recorded during a few nights in Boston and opens with an awesome Tom Jones’-ish tune called “The Sultan’s Revenge” and then he has some hilarious skits about Whole Foods, druggies, Orthodox Jews, etc. There is also a dvd of this out (mine is a cd only). www.subpop.com
GUIGNOL & MISCHEIF BREW- FIGHT DIRTY- FISTOLO- This is a pairing of two bands, Guignol featuires ex-Hold Steady guy Franz Nicolay while Mischeif Brew are a Philly anarcho-folk band and these 16 songs run the gamut from klezmer to something foliker to some whacked-out beat box gunk to Pogues-ish tunes. Not bad but I’ll bet live they’re a stone cold hoot. www.myspace.com/fistolorecords
THE HILLFIELDS- I’LL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN- UNDERUSED- Nifty UK bunch who have been at it for a while but this is their debut full-length ( I think they have some eps out). Their sound harkens back to the 80’s when bands like the Mighty Lemon Drops and Close Lobsters were on everyone’ lips and the songs turn in fine with some ace jangle and confident vocals. This will per your ears up. www.thehillfields.com
HORSE FEATHERS- THISTLED SPRING- KILL ROCK STARS- Portland’s Justin Ringle is still at it, writing his low-key, simple tunes (you could call it alt country, I suppose) with his hushed vocals that are accompanied by his acoustic guitar as well as a violin and cello player. “Belly of June” is my pick to click. Lonesome but hopeful. www.killrockstars.com
HORSE OPERA- SOUNDS OF THE DESERT- TELEWRECK- I dig this kind of simple, AM radio honky tonk country that you could hear all over the place back in the 60’s whether you were in Nashville, Bakersfield or all points in between. Vocalist Jimmy Deveney sounds about as authentic as you can get and that pedal steel player is the tops. “Save My Tears” and “3 to Closing” were just two of my faves here. www.horseoperamusic.com
INTIMATE STRANGER- UNDER- FRINGECORE/ RIOT CLUB- This Chilean band, whom I had never heard of before,. are on the right track. The songs are tense and driving but have a solid melody running through each. Also, Tessie’s vocals have a toughness about them but a certain vulnerability at the same time. Check out the fantastic “Nighttime” and “Moments.” Well done. www.futurefrequencies.com
LAB PARTNERS- MOONLIGHT MUSIC- PRAVDA- After a few records ion Reverb (and one on Big Beef) this Ohio dream pop band expands its sound with plenty of psychedelia and shoegaze as well. You’ll hear some sitar (and trumpet) and a tune like “It’s Funny” will appeal to fans of Spiritualized everywhere. See you on the other side. www.pravdamusic.com
LILLE- TALL SHOULDERS- WHALE HEART- This is 18 year old Atlanta native Grace Bellury and believe me, the pain in her vocals sounds a helluva lot older than her 18 years . TALL SHOULDERS is 5 little folk ditties and I think I hear some uke and mandolin in there too. Definitely worthy of your attention. www.whaleheartrecords.com
MAGIC BULLETS- S/T- MON AMIE- Wow, I don’t remember liking this San Fran band’s previous records this much but this has a total sound of young Scotland sound to it (think Orange Juice) and terrific songs! A pleasant surprise I was in no way ready for. www.monamierecords.com
MAPLE MARS- GALAXYLAND- KOOL KAT MUSIK- LA quartet who craft a mighty fine record here that is actually a loose concept record about a space-age theme park. The record has big hooks but there are also some spacier elements as well with whooshing keys , like a Kinks meets Pink Floyd ( for a real general comparison). The bottom line here is the songs are really strong. www.koolkatmusik.com
NONPOINT- MIRACLE- 954- Interracial metal-rap band from Miami on their 7th record. The sleeve is some kind of cool origami thing but the music? Egads. I suppose I like it more than grindcore but that ain’t sayin’ much. For those who like Godsmack (not me). www.nonpoint.com
THE SHONES- MY DEAR ONE- FANATIC- This BKNY quartet (2 boys/ 2 girls) do an unusual mix of indie rock, some punk and what sounds like traditional Jewish music. Musically it jumps all over the place while vocally Louisa Rachel Solomon reminded me of Corin Tucker form Sleater-Kinney. Give ‘em point for originality but not my bag www.fanaticrecords.com
SLINGSBY HORNETS- SOMETHING OLD..SOMETHING NEW… EXPERDITION HOTDOG- Glam-soaked power pop from this UK bunch who were nice enough to include a guitar pick (and sticker) inside their cd case. Heavy on the whooshing synthesizers and pumped-up guitars this band seems like they know how to have a good time with songs like “Pinball” “Are Friends Electric?” and “The Devil May Care.” About half of these are covers so this batch of tunes I fun. www.myspace.com/theslingsbyhornets
STANDARD FARE- THE NOYELLE BEAT- BAR NONE- Interesting choice for a release by the Bar None label. This Sheffield UK trio harken back to the jangly 80’s when all the bands wore their Smiths shirts proudly (and probably still do). I like bassist Emma Kupa’s occasionally shrill vocals and the songs aren’t great but solid/good and I think the next one could be even better. www.bar-none.com
STRIPMALL ARCHITECTURE- FEATHERSONGS FOR FACTORY GIRLS- SELF RELEASED- Dreamy, moody pop-rock right in the middle of the Cocteau Twins and Portishead (more of the latter, actually) with some more rockin’ elements. Vocalist Rebecca Coseboom has a strong voice but it’s not my cuppa tea. 5 songs. www.stripmallarchitecture.com
TRANSIENT SONGS- CAVE SYNDROME- INDIAN CASINO- First full-length by Seattle-ite John Frum. He released a terrific ep a year or two ago so was glad to see he kept the Transient Songs train a rollin’. You’ll hear hazy vocals, some slide guitar and dreamy melodies, think The Clientele or Mercury Rev and you’ll be in the ballpark. Don’t give this guy any speed, I like his haziness just fine. www.indiencasinorecords.com
MICHAEL TRENT- THE WINNER- SHRIMP- South Carolina dude who apparently used ot be more pop in his punch (I have not heard his previous stuff) but now goes more for a honky tonk Dylan. Opening title track is a knee-slappin’ number while “Tell the Truth;’ and “Bad Luck” kick the barroom vibe up a notch. This guy seems like he writes music straight from his heart but not forgetting the fun either. www.myspace.com/michaeltrent
WILD BORES- WE THINK ALIKE- SELF RELEASED- Nice breezy, heartland rock by John Whildin and his fairly large crew. Opener “In front of Me’ is what a pop song should be while “I Still Think She’s Mine” has some nice horns added. At times a bit light for my ears but still , strong songwriting. www.wildbores.com
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGTH IT WAS SAFE TO RELEASE A RECORD, THE RETURN OF……Kidd Oblivion
(He tells you the truth…)
ATHLETE – BLACK SWAN – FICTION – If this record was a math equation it would look like this: MGMT + MPPA = Athlete.
BLACK HELICOPTER – DON’T FUCK WITH THE APOCALYPSE – ECSTATIC PEACE – Imagine Stevie Malkmus’ older brother fronting a band with the guys from Strapping Fieldhands and Bardo Pond that he wants to sound like Uncle Tupelo, but ends up sounding like a lesser version of Slint. Oh, and they’re signed to Ecstatic Peace because he’s Stevie Malkmus’ older brother. Get it?
BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB – LIVE – VAGRANT – Generally, I do not like bands from LA, nor do I like when bands have excessively long names. Also, generally, I hate live albums. So, this thing never really had a chance did it? The fact that it sounded like Jane’s Addiction for the new millennium didn’t help matters.
CAVEMEN GO – NEW LIVES – FEBRUARY RECS – Straight off the mean streets of New Haven, Conn! This is a fair conglomeration of Elvis Costello, Squeeze and Split Enz with predictable songwriting and dry/bedroom production. Noteworthy in 1994.
ALAN COHEN EXPERIENCE – SPACE & TIME – FAMJAM – A self-proclaimed, “chapter by chapter interpretation of Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time.” Does that sound like a good idea to you? No, I didn’t think so. Not only does Cohen have no business singing (in private or otherwise), but the music behind him is a complete pile of shit as well. This record is insulting to people who appreciate music.
COLTRANE MOTION – HELLO AMBITION – BANTER – Nice scratchy/catchy indie electronica that resembles a more social / less druggy Spacemen 3 combined with the J&M Chain. This is waaaay better than the bullshit that Pattern Is Movement passes off as music. Try it.
DOA – TALK – ACTION = 0 – SUDDEN DEATH – Wow, can you believe after 30 years Shithead Knightly is still making records!? This pretty much sounds like any DOA record, albeit a bit toothless. The cover of “That’s Amore,” and the ditty about Star Trek however are 100% fecal matter for your ears. Don’t dispute me.
HALF-HANDED CLOUD – STOWAWAYS – ASTHMATIC KITTY – This is a bad, baroque, squeaky-voiced, folk-rock interpretation of the Olivia Tremor Control.
HARLAN T BOBO – SUCKER – GONER – Good cover art & design, bad lyrics & vocals. In a word: corny. Also, no one cares about your wife’s ice cream shop or about the time she broke your nose with a bottle of rum. Thank you, goodnight.
HEWHOCANNOTBENAMED – SUNDAY SCHOOL MASSACRE – GREEDY – Some good old punk rawk about mutants, suicide, hate, murder, pee-ing in the pool and disabled superheroes courtesy of the masked, ex Dwarves guitarist HeWho. Nicely done.
HOT HOT HEAT – FUTURE BREEDS – DANGERBIRD – This is kinda like a gay, coked-out Devo. Alright, gay-er Devo. Wasn’t this band famous for about 11 minutes a few years ago?
HINKLEY – ELEPHANT ROUNDUP – CARBON – Rochester, NY’s Cowboy Junkies.
JESSE MURPHY IN THE WOODS – EIGHT BELLES – SELF – Oh. My. God. This saccharine, Lilith Fair bullshit (complete w/ zamphir flute sounds!) will make you want to cut your own arm off just so you have something to beat them with. I mean, they actually have a song called, “God save Owen Wilson (he’s a lot like me).” Are you fucking kidding me? This, I’m sure, is what awaits me in Hell.
LO-PRO – BEAUTIFUL SOUNDS OF REVENGE – ROCKET SCIENCE VENTURES – More music for goat-tee’d frat-boy rapists to play while getting ‘psyched up’ for Saturday night’s closeted homosexual bonding rituals.
LOS LOBOS – TIN CAN TRUST – SHOUT FACTORY – One would think that young Kidd Oblivion would be quick to slag these venerable old-timers, but NO! I will not, and here’s why: they are amazing musicians who have managed to navigate the evil money trench of the record bizness for almost 40 years. And, they have wicked guitar collections that you could only dream of owning. Ha ha! Viva Los Lobos!
MICROTIA – SPACEMAKER – SELF – Points given for making your cd’s packaging out of Bud Light boxes and the tracklist cards out of Camel Lights packs. Now, go buy some whiskey and some Marlboro reds like a real man and make another record.
MONDO TOPLESS – FREAKING OUT – GET HIP – It’s unbelievable to me that A: MT are still a band; B: people are willing to spend any money to listen to them; C: people are willing to watch them live; and D: they STILL haven’t realized that their Vox Continental organ sound is totally annoying and OVER. This stuff wasn’t that great 15 years ago, now it’s just… ugh.
THE MULLENS – ITS HARD TO IMAGINE – GET HIP – The full album title is actually, It’s hard to imagine how bad this record is. The production is absolutely generic and the music is merely tired and boring. However, The Mullens DO win for worst album cover of this issue! Hooray! Joey & Iggy are rolling in their graves.
NIGHTLANDS – FORGET THE MANTRA – SELF – Electronic Fleet Foxes on mushrooms and coffee. Read as: totally awesome.
GRAHAM PARKER – IMAGINARY TELEVISION – BLOODSHOT – I cannot in good conscience give a positive review to anyone who plays an Ovation acoustic guitar - no matter what label they’re on or how much money they are willing to mail me.
SNAKE! SNAKE! SNAKES! – S/T – MODERN ART – Pretty solid National / Bottom of the Hudson / Band of Horses rip-off hailing from the armpit of America – Phoenix, AZ.
TWO HOURS TRAFFIC – TERRITORY – BUMSTEAD – This is actually a really nice dose of melodic, indie power-pop. The opening track, “noisemaker,” is a fine example of this and the bonus tracks are as good as anything that made the cut for the album. Well done lads.
VARIOUS ARTISTS – POCKET / 5 SINGLES – 24 HR – I tried to play this on every cd player and computer I could find and it always came up with “disc error.” So, I couldn’t listen to it, but Robyn Hitchcock’s on it so it’s probably pretty good.
V/A – REMEMBER ME BABY (CAMEO VOCALS GROUPS VOL. 1) – COLLECTORS CHOICE/ABKCO – You might not think it to look at me, but I really like oldies sometimes. This comp taught me 2 things: First was just how many good vocal/doo-wop groups came out of the Philadelphia area back in the 50’s and 60’s. Second was that 24 tracks of doo-wop in a row is about 13 too many for me.
WE ARE HEX – HAIL THE GOER – ROARING COLONEL – A very nice slice of searing, angular, female-fronted No Wave presented here by the ‘Hex. Not quite as vicious as some (see: Gooloo), but certainly powerful and a little scary. We like.
KELLER WILLIAMS – THIEF – SELF – This guy should be fucking ashamed of himself. This turd of a record is comprised of queer, country cover songs by the likes of the Grateful Dead, Kris Kristofferson and Amy Winehouse. Yeah, you read that correctly. Wait until you hear about his “…digital pro looping unit that allows him to play multiple instruments on stage.” What a fucking dork.
WOLF PARADE – EXPO 86 – SUBPOP – On their last record Wolf Parade were able to present exactly 2 songs that I liked. On this new slab they have managed to triple that! In fact, I’m really digging this installment of their Bowie meets Spoon mash-ups and the production of Expo 86 is much, much better. This is a really good modern indie-rock offering. See, I don’t hate everything.
WORKHORSE III – S/T – DRP – This band’s press-kit goes on and on about how these guys are the “veteran musical stalwarts” of Philadelphia. I have spent an enormous amount of time in Philadelphia throughout my whole life and have never heard of any of them or any of the bands that were supposedly in. That said, they’re here now and they’re playing tired punk rock circa 1983. Yawn.
AUGUST 2010
THE ART OF SHOOTING- TRAVELING SHOW- SELF RELEASED- Basically work from the mind and heart of Kelly Irene Corson (the band is a trio, though) . In a manner not unlike Throwing Muses Kristin Hersh, Corson through herself around the tunes that sway and soar and occasionally trip and fall. Powerful stuff with a keen sense of melody. “It Goes (home)” is my fave here. www.myspace.com/theartofshooting
MARK BATES- DOWN THE NARROW- SELF RELEASED- Though young, this West Virginia native (now based in Nashville, I believe) has done a lot. Conducted the W.V. Symphony, toured as a jazz trumpeter, and here, after having written over 200 songs by the rip young age of 21, is his debut. The songs are mostly downbeat, cry-in-your-beer country folk songs with plenty of heart. He sounds wise beyond his years. www.myspace.com/markbatesmusic
BIRCH BOOK VOLUME III- A HAND FULL OF DAYS- LITTLE SOMEBODY- Third cd in a series (first I’ve heard) of this Portland-based folk artist who weaves dreamy and psychedelic acoustic guitar with his floaty vocals. Loner/stoner folk in the Michael Head tradition. Intriguing. www.myspace.com/littlesomebody
CHILD BITE- THE LIVING BREATHING ORGAN SUMMER- JOYFUL NOISE- These Motor City madmen aren’t afraid to try something new. The press kit says a bit of Pere Ubu, DK’s, Devo and Birthday Party and that about nails it. Guitar clank and clatter and occasionally head off to the beach while vocally it sounded like Jello Biafra on a bender. Unique to say the least. www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com
AMELIA CURRAN- HUNTER, HUNTER- SIX SHOOTER- Canadian folkie (St. Johns, Newfoundland, actually) who, with help from friends, (a dobro player in there!) lays down a soothing vibe on this, her 5th record. I like her slightly raspy voice and the fact that it’s not your typical coffee house folk (though coffeehouse patron would probably like her). www.sixshooterrecords.com
DIGNAN PORCH- TENDRILS- CAPTURED TRACKS- UK quartet featuring Joe Walsh (no, not THAT Joe Walsh!) who evoke a bit of New Zealand (Flying Nun, ‘natch) imagery with some oddball strumming and in-the-attic vocals. Not hooky but still listenable (and oddly, hummable) from our friends at Captured Tracks. “On Ride” is my fave of the bunch. www.capturedtracks.com
DAVID DONDERO- # ZERO WITH A BULLET- TEAM LOVE- This is Austin-based singer-songwriter’s’ 3rd record for the Team Love label. It sounds like Dondero is still doing what he has always done: Travel the world meeting regular folks like me and you and writing his little folky campfire songs about them. The record is, in his words, “full of Yogi Berra-isms” and hey, he even (purposely) mispronounces Oregon on “Caught the Song.” This batch of songs is as good as anything he’s done previously, maybe better. www.team-love.com
ELVYN- THE DECLINE- LITTLE WAGON- Third record from this Canadian quartet who seem to really like Teenage Fanclub (Big Star too) bit while you can pick the influences don’t discount this as the band is excellent. The songwriting is superb and they don’t forget the hooks. Our friends from the Great White North have done it again, well done chaps. www.elvyn.com
GOLDIE WILSON- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Current Seattle band but these guys appreciate music from decades past. They cite both The Zombies and the Mamas and the Papas as influences and I hear some of that in the harmonies while musically they throw a few more curveballs. Not bad. www.myspace.com/goldiewilsonband
HANOI JANES- YEAR OF PANIC- CAPTURED TRACKS- Let’s hear it for the Germans! Hanoi Janes is actually German bedroom popper Oliver Scharf. He, along with 3 different friends on drums, has made one terrific lo-fi pop record. You guys all know what I mean when I say “lo-fi pop” this is no different except it’s played with such exuberance that Oliver instantly zooms up near the top of the pack on this, his first record. Oliver, I that’s you on the front of the record, don’t be afraid to crack smile dude. Geez, you just made a mighty fine pop record here. www.capturedtracks.com
HOSPITAL GARDEN- S/T- CEREBUS- Chicago 3-some who seem to go right for the jugular of early 90’s indie rock, namely Pavement and Butterglory. Yeah, so it’s not super original but what is these days? The songs are good, vocals aren’t bad and I like the way they stomp on their fuzz pedals, so there. www.myspace.com/hospitalgarden
INDIAN JEWELRY- TOTALED- WE ARE FREE- Erika, Tex and Rodney make up this Houston, TX trio who hate the Astros and Rockets but love their tweaked synths. I guess you could call this synth-rock if you were really desperate (and had to piss real bad) but I think Suicide might be a good starting point and go from there. I don’t even always like it but I like that they’re adventurous. Yeah. www.nowwearefree.com
SARAH JAFFE- SUBURBAN NATURE- KIRTLAND- Not the Erase Erratta gal, this Sarah Jaffe hails from Texas and though young, has been on the scene for a while now. On this debut, though the songs are mostly folk in nature, her band includes 2 strings players, drummer and a multi-instrumentalist. The folky stuff is ok but I like the spacier material (“Stay with Me”, “Clementine”, etc.). Not always my bag but she does have plenty of talent. www.kirtlandrecords.com
KACEY JOHANSING- MANY SEASONS- PORTO FRANCO- Colorado raised/ San Francisco based singer-songwriter sings a lot about her locales (she spent time in Beantown too) in her reedy voice (think Rikki Lee Jones) while the music is gentle and breezy with elements of folk and classical. Pretty stuff , especially the string-laden “Angel Island.” Nice. www.portofrancorecords.com
THE LIGHTS- FAILED GRAVES- WANTAGE USA- Seattle trio going for that crash and burn sound that their fine Emerald City brought to us in the early 90’s. Not a lot on here turned my crank but I did like their slowed down version of Black Flag’s “Nervous Breakdown.” www.wantageusa.com
LUCKY DELUCCI- DECEMBER 1986- BUBBLEWRAP- Pretty courageous for a UK band to release a 2 song cd (digipak) and send it over here for reviews but these guys know they’re stuff is good. 6 folks combining elements of folk, country and pop into 2 wonderful cohesive songs. The title track is terrific, like a laid back Pogues at times, and the other tune, “Old Sound of the River” is nearly as good. Full-length time! www.bubblewrapcollective.co.uk
AUDRA MAE- THE HAPPIEST LAMB- SIDEONEDUMMY- Oklahoma City native who seems to be walking in the boots ( ha ha ) of one, Nancy Sinatra. Seriously, check out the swinging opening title track and tell me it ain’t so. Not enough young women seem to emulate Nancy so it’s about time someone did. 11 swingin’ tunes. www.sideonedummy.com
MARTHA AND THE MUFFINS- DELICATE- ARK- Yup, they’re still around. This is their first record in 18 years and it doesn’t sound unlike their early stuff. The band is still basically Martha and Mark (plus the rhythm section) and I liked about half of this. The catchy opener “Drive” was nice to hear as was the spazzy “One in a Million.” Kinda refreshing, actually. www.marthaandthemuffins.com
MARK MCADAM- PAPER MAN SONGS- SUPERHEAD- Former Sumack guy with his third solo record (his previous one, 2006’s CAVALCADE, was the last release on Skippy McFadden’s March label). This new one is more of the same straddling the line between laid back Elliot Smith-ish pop (“The Space Between”) and more rousing stuff bordering on alt country (“Who Else”). A few snoozers, but mostly pretty good. www.markmcadam.com
ANNE MCCUE- BROKEN PROMISE LAND- SELF RELEASED- Howling bluesy cojntry from a Lucinda Williams fave. Not my cuppa tea but the girl’s got talent. www.annemccue.com
NEVEREVER- ANGELIC SWELLS- SLUMBERLAND- This LA bunch are led by a female vocalist (Jihae Simmons Meek) who lived in Scotland (where she met her husband ex-Bricolage guy Wallace Meek). They used to be known as the Champagne Socialists but decided upon a better band name. Their debut is full of a hearty mix of doo wop, 60’s girl group and fuzzy 80’s UK pop plus a Plimsouls cover (“Now”). Groovy, finger-snappin’ stuff that I enjoyed. www.slumberlandrecords.com
OUTRAGEOUS CHERRY- SEEMINGLY SOLID REALITY- BOMP/ALIVE- Record # whatever from Matthew Smith and company. These Detroit space cadets have been a model of consistency since they debuted back in the mid-90’s. SEEMINGLY SOLID REALITY isn’t their strongest record but, as the title implies, it’s solid. 11 mid-tempo excursions into psych-tinged pop. www.aliveenergy.com
PAPERPLANES- RHINESTONE REPUBLIC- COUGAR TRAP- These So. Cal carts hail from Long Beach but cold easily call Bakersfield their home. Yes, Rhinestone Republic is an appropriate title and I’ll bet these cats, led by main songwriter, Micah Panzich, bring the down the house regularly on any given Friday or Saturday night. Plenty of goods times, good songs and most important, twang! Well done, my friends, now get your butts to Portland for a gig! www.thepaperplanes.com
PEGGY SUE- FOSSILS AND OTHER PHANTOMS- YEP ROC- UK trio of Katy, Rosa and Oly who you’d swear were American. They weave their own brand of country noir and I liked about half of this. . Vocals take some getting used to. www.yeproc.com
RABBIT CHILDREN- THOU SHALT HAVE A TIME MACHINE- CLUTTER BEAR- These guys call the Windy City home and have a real nice, laid back pop style. Song #2, “Fingers Crossed” was a bit Shins-y (as was (“Keip”) while they get quirkier on “Bill the Butcher” and poppier on “Who Knows?”. I need to delve a bit further (Ie; Do they have other records out?). Nice. www.clutterbear.com
WALTER SCHREIFELS- AN OPEN LETTER TO THE SCENE- ACADEMY FIGHT SONG- I can’t say that the debut solo record from the former leader of NYHC bands Gorilla Biscuits and Quicksand did a lot for me. It sounds like real pedestrian folk that wasn’t real inspired. Even his Agnostic Front cover, while marginally interesting, could have been better executed. Not awful, just kinda dull. www.academyfightsong.com
SONIC AVENUES- S/T- GOING GAGA- This Canadian punky power pop bunch kick things into high gear on the first track, the unbelievably catchy, “Hiding From You.” They reminded me of a slightly poppier Marked Men (or several other Dirtnap bands, honestly). Plenty of hooks and good songwriting all the way around. www.sonicavenues.com
SON OF THE SUN- THE HAPPY LOSS- SELF RELEASED- This is well-done, vintage garage psych pop , from, of all places, Buffalo, NY (Go Bills!). In the vein of the Black Angels or Brian Jonestown Massacre and the 10 songs play together as a whole. Nice. www.sonofthesunmusic.com
TRUE LOVE- !PAS NET!- MAIN MAN- Record #4 by this NJ power pop band which features ex-Pleased Youth guy Keith Hartel. I have 2003’s I WAS ACCIDENT but missed their 3rd one from 2006. Still, !PAS NET! Is full of the kind of melodic, riffing pop that most bands would kill for. Nothin’ fancy, just good songwriting. www.mainmanrecords.com
PAUL TURNER- ANOTHER WORLD- TURTLE PRODUCTIONS- Gentle, wispy folk from this sophomore effort by this New Zealand musician. Part of this was recorded right here at Jackpot with Larry Crane. Perfect for the after midnight types and fans of Elliot Smith and Nick Drake. www.paulturner.com
TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB- TOURSIT HISTORY- GLASSNOTE- This Northern Ireland trio mix catchy, jangly guitars with some nifty electronics and come up with a pretty nice little record here. Rhythmically it sounds a bit like Bloc Party or Franz Ferdinand (2 obvious comparisons, I know) but they have plenty of youthful energy and the tunes are there. Yup, there. www.glassnotemusic.com
VERMILLION SANDS- S/T- ALIEN SNATCH- Not even gonna pretend like I know about these Italian grunts but hey, it’s on Alien Snatch and that is good enough for me. The sounds? Uh, female vocals, fuzzed out guitar and a cheap organ. The tunes rattle and hum and are fun. I think you’d like it, partner. www.aliensnatch.com
ROCKY VOTOLATO- TRUE DEVOTION- BARSUK- Have at least one (maybe two) of this guy’s previous records and while he is talented and I do like his stuff I have not kept up with his releases at all. Apparently this record came after a hiatus where he recorded no songs at all, began pondering his life (and the meaning of it) and out came these 10 songs that sound as good , or better, than anything I’ve heard in the past. This guy means every word. www.barsuk.com
WILD MOCCASINS- SKIN COLLISION PAST- SELF RELEASED- They come from the land of Enron (well, former…) and the Astros but this Houston, TX bunch are pure pop. In the New Pornos vein but occasionally vocalist Zahira Guiterrez’ vocals are a bit hard to take. Still, the melodies are there and well, I’m keepin’ it. www.wildmoccasins.com
THE YOUNG SINCLAIRS- WE SPOKE OUR MINDS ep- PLANTING SEEDS- West Virginia bunch who apparently have lots of stuff out (vinyl and cdrs) but this is the first I have heard of them. 4 fine psych pop songs in the Byrds vein with the title track being the best one here but all 4 are worthy. www.plantingseedsrecords.com
JULY 2010
BACKYARD TIRE FIRE- GOOD TO BE- THIRTY TIGERS- Indianapolis trio led by Mr Ed Anderson (his bro is in the band, too) and these guys would fit right in the middle of the circle where jam band, alt country, blues and rawk meet up , exchange pleasantries and then start jamming. A tour with the Drive by Truckers might be a good idea too (they’ve probably already one it). Produced by Steve Berlin. www.backyardtirefire.com
KEVIN BARKER- YOU & ME- GNOMONSONG- Excellent 8-song solo record from the guitarist for Vetiver with some help form big names like Johanna Newsom, Pat Sansone and Eric Johnson. Like Vetiver YOU & ME is full of low-key , country-influenced tunes (think the Grateful Dead’s acoustic records) with a real laid-back feel and some superb songs./ Check out “Little Picture of You” and “My Lady’ for starters. www.myspace.com/kwkbarker
BIG TREE- 3 SONG EP- SELF RELEASED- BKNY bunch offering up 3 tunes of melodic bounce. Not bad and yes, I would like to hear more. In the Au Revoir Simone vein.
BONEDOME- THINKTANKUBATOR- SELF RELEASED- See Stereo Freakout below only instead of bad funk this is more like, I dunno, bad modern rock. www.bonedome.org
MEGAN BURTT- IT AIN’T LOVE- SELF RELEASED- Generic, Lillith Fair type rock from a gal who has a decent voice but the songs are pretty rote. www.meganburtt.com
PETER CASE- WIG!- YEP ROC- You know him from both The Nerves and The Plimsouls as well as his lengthy solo career. This guy has had more ups and downs than Cher but he keeps plugging along (after nearly dying a few year ago). Here Mr. Case offer more bluesy, acoustic rock on this stripped-down affair. He still has that 4-packs a day, raspy voice and his blues are real so give him the credit the deserves. www.yeproc.com
CEREMONY- ROCKET FIRE- KILLER PIMP- This Virginia duo of Paul and John might be the first band ever that I need to wear ear plugs while the cd is on (and the volume isn’t that high)! Seriously, taking cues form, Jesus and Mary Chain and, of course, MBV, these noise maestros put the fuzz pedals on stun and have at it for 10 songs. Seriously, tunes like “Never Make You Cry”, “Marianne” and “Stars Falls” are a pure adrenaline rush and the songs are GOOD. www.myspace.com/ceremonytheband
ANNA COOGAN- THE NOCTURNAL AMONG US- SELF RELEASED- Not sure where Anna Coogan is from but her vocals make her sound form the deep south (she lives in Seattle now). This is her solo debut and along with a talented cast of musicians she has made a fine twangy pop rock record. My favorite cut on the record is the hooky “Dreaming My Life Away” but there are several other nearly as good. Well done. www.annacoogan.com
JOHN CUNNINGHAM- 1998-2002- ASHMONT- This is a reissue of the UK folkies 2 previous records, 1998’s HOMELESS HOUSE and 2002’S HAPPY-GO-UNLUCKY. No surprise that it is on Joe Pernice’s label as Joe has been taunting this guy’s talents for years and it was he who prompted me to first buy HOMELSS HOUSE when it came out. Talented songwriter and now that it is a 2-fer you have no excuse. www.ashmontrecords.com
DANGERMAKER- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Bay Area bunch who I’ve seen described as “sleazy Stonesy rock.”Not mah thang. www.dangermaker.com
THE DAREDEVIL CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT- IN DEFERENCE TO A BROKEN BACK- AMBLE DOWN- The band may be a trio but if you could the number of folks who contributed their musical talent , well, the band swells to near 30 (and mostly mixed by Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon). The songs are folky in an experimental way, occasionally beautiful and at times annoying (I;m thinking mostly of Jonathan Sunde’s vocals) but well worth digging into. www.ambledown.com
DISCOVER AMERICA- FUTURE PATHS- LUJO- Wonderful low-key pop from the mind of Chris Staples. Not always sure what’s he’s singing about the but that’s ok as several of the melodies are beautiful (“1979”, etc.) and the guy knows his way around a tune. At times in the Bedhead/New Year vein. Well worth your time. www.lujorecords.com
THE DO- A MOUTHFUL- SIX DEGREES- French duo (pronounced dough) of Dan and Olivia who whip together a heady brew of folk, hip hop and pop and it works….well, sometimes. Including bonus tracks there’s 18 tunes on here so it’s a lot to take in, I do find myself enjoying it in small doses. They’ve also done some film soundtrack stuff so and that wasn’t too surprising either. I need to give this one some more listens. www.sixdegreesrecords.com
DAVID FORD- LET THE HARD TIMES ROLL- OPRIGINAL SIGNAL- UK dude who sounds American who offers up nice melodic rock on this, his third record (never heard the first two). At times he comes off like a poor man’s Springsteen and that’s ok ‘cos this guy tosses in plenty of heart and determination. “Making Up for Lost Time:” is my pick to click. www.myspace.com/davidford
GOOD SHOES- NO HOPE, NO FUTURE- BRILLE- This is the 2nd full-length from this gang of UK young uns and like the debut (2007’s THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK) this has more of that tightly-spunk post-punk that the band now seems to specialize in. A little Gang of Four here, some Wire there and as far a current bands, think The Futureheads. Both the opener “The Way My Heart Beats” and “No Control” were 2 of my faves here. www.brillerecords.com
MARTIN HAGFORS- MEN AND FLIES- ME- I had never previously heard of this slick Norwegian but he apparently has plenty of records out in his home country. Regardless, I liked what I heard, Hagfors is a pop craftsmen dedicated to his songcraft. You’ll hear jangly guitars, bouncy keyboards and Hagfors exuberant voice offering up 9 nuggets of hope. MEN AND FLIES is worth several spins. www.martinhagfors.com
HOUSEHOLD NAMES- STORIES, NO NAMES- SELF RELEASED- Nice, melodic pop from these 4 Austin, TX-ites who offer their third record here (but this is the first I’ve heard ‘em). Plenty of harmonies and jangly guitars, in fact a lot of this reminded me of the latest Broken West record. Not quite there yet but close. www.householdnames.org
INDUBIOUS- COSMIC SEED- RIGHTEOUS SOUNDS- A reggae band from Southern Oregon who are out there trying to spread good vibes. The first song is called “Be Kind.” Do you really need to hear anymore? www.www.indubiousmusic.com
LIBBY JOHNSON- PERFECT VIEW- WRONG- Beautiful acoustic folk pop from this singer/songwriter I had never heard before. Absolutely lovely vocals and a nice pop sensibility too. Fans of Joni Mitchell take note. www.wrongrecords.net
LIBRARIANS- PRESENT PASSED- POST FACT- Hard-to-categorize bunch from California who sometimes go for a low-end murky sound while other times looking for the kids to dance! Vocals are doomy and “Candy Place’ was my favorite though they lose me a bit on the final few tunes (where they delve into messy psych). www.postfact.com
LOVE IS ALL- TWO THOUSAND AND TEN INJURIES- POLYVINYL- This is record #3 by this Swedish bunch and I’m still as mixed on here as I was on the first two. On the one hand the band is able to crank out jittery pop gems like opener “Bigger Bolder” and “Less Than Thrilled” but on the other hand they can confound me with annoying, offbeat tunes like “Repetition” and “Early Warnings” (at least the beginning, I like the sax parts). Still not 100% sure on this band. www.polyvinylrecords.com
MATT MARKS- THE LITTLE DEATH: VOL . 1- NEW AMSTERDAM- This is Matt and Mellissa doing occasionally eerie electro pop with, if I’m not mistaken, a Christian bent. Apparently matt took the samples on here form religious records as well as rap and soul platters too. Not always sure what they’re on about but the way it’s all comes together is interesting (and occasionally very hummable). www.newamsterdamrecords.com
PEPPER RABBIT- SHAKES & CLICKS- SELF RELEASED- LA duo who employ lots of kitchen sink sounds on this record . I hear horns, woodwinds, samples, omnichord (??!), a vibraphone, and well, you name it and it’s most likely on here but the songs are good. “Harvest Moon” (not the Neil tune) is excellent as are a few others. Bravo for these two!
PHANTOGRAM- EYELID MOVIES- BARSUK- Trip hop (they call it street beat) duo of Josh and Sarah who hail from upstate NY and used to be called Charlie Everywhere. Soulful vocals (both of them sing) along with beats and fuzzy guitars. Not normally my “thing” but I gave it some time and it’s been growing on me. “When I’m Small” was my personal fave. www.barsuk.com
THE PLIMSOULS- LIVE! BEG, BORROW & STEAL- BOMP/ALIVE- This is the Plimsouls at the peak of their powers and though they were a one-hit wonder band (“A Million Miles Away”, yes, included here) they shouldn’t have been as they had plenty of other terrific songs. On here they’re live and raw at The Whiskey on Halloween in 1981. Good, good stuff. www.alivenergy.com
PROCEDURE CLUB- DOOMED FOREVER- SLUMBERLAND- Umm…not my favorite Slumberland release ever. This is the duo of Adam and Andrea. He plays the music while she sings the words and while I like about half the songs it’s the recording quality that leaves something to be desired. I’m no purist but some of this is even too rough for me. I did like “Feel Sorry for Me” and “Slut Fossil” and bet they can work wonders in a real, live studio. www.slumberlandrecords.com
QUADRON- S/T- PLUG RESEARCH- Danish duo doing real laid back grooves on this one. I guess you could call it acoustic folk soul with some r & b tossed in. On paper it didn’t look all that hot it but while it is playing in my cd player I kinda like it. Does this mean my mind is opening up a bit? Maybe. www.plugresearch.com
REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND- THE WAGES- SIDEONEDUMMY- Record #6 by this trio (not so big, huh?) led by Josh Peyton. His wife, Breezy , is in the band too and a drummer and they come off like a high-energy country jug band (washboard and all). On record this stuff is ok but I’ll bet dollars to donuts these guys are a stone cold hoot live. Yep. www.sideonedummy.com
AMBER RUBARTH- GOOD MYSTERY- SELF RELEASED- Quirky singer-songwriter who reminded me a bit of Regina Spektor. She sings form the heart but is not afraid to show a sense of humor too. Check out the sultry “Full Moon in Paris.” I kinda like this gal. www.myspace.com/amberrubarth
SALLY SHAPIRO- MY GUILTY PLEASURE- PAPER BAG- This is a Swedish duo consisting of a man named Johan Agebjorn and a woman who may or may not (mot likely the latter) be called Sally Shapiro. It’s been called Italian disco which heck, sounds good to me. It reminded me a bit of St. Etienne as well as some of the dancier Club 8 stuff. They also got Roger Gunnarsson (of Nixon and Cloetta Paris) to write some tunes and it’s all really well done electro dance pop. If you dig then you will dig. www.paperbagrecords.com
SHE & HIM- VOLUME TWO- MERGE- You knew more tunes were coming from, Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward, after (dh), volume 1. Here’s 13 more tunes cut from the same cloth. You know, the sort of thing you heard on AM radio back in the early 60’s. The honey-voiced female singer and the expert guitarist delicately plunking out melodic gold. Volume 3? www.mergerecords.com
THE SINGLES- AROUND YOUR LOVE cd single plus 2 others- SOUND ARTIFACTS MUSIC- Vince from Detroit’s Singles was nice enough to send me 3 of their cd singles last year (ok, so I’m a little behind on reviews) which will hopefully mean a new Singles cd this year (their last one was 2006’s START AGAIN). “Around Your Love” was a nice little soulful number while cut #2 was more in the Beatles-vein of their other gunk. The other two cd singles (Don’t Need Your Love and Can You Go Out Tonight?, both with videos)) both keep the songwriting strong and make my anticipation for their next record even stronger. www.soundartifacts.com
THE SISTER RUBY BAND- A SHOT IN THE DARK- SELF RELEASED- 5 dreamy, reverb heavy tunes from this LA-bred, London-based artist known as Johnny Ruby. It reminded me of the more acoustic stuff from Spiritualized, Jesus & Mary Chain and Brian Jonestown Massacre (and V.U, of course, too) . He has an ear for a nice melody and all 5 of these songs are well-worth hearing ( but my favorite is the opener, “Rebecca (Just Take it from Me)”). How about a full-length? www.thesisterrubyband.com
STEREO FREAKOUT- IF WISHES WERE FISHES…- SELF RELEASED- As bad as you think a band called Stereo Freakout would be. Funky hard rock if that tells you anything. www.stereofreakout.com
TENDER FOREVER- NO SNARE- K- I enjoyed one of the records I heard previously by Frenchwoman Melanie Valera but I can’t remember if it was the first or 2nd. On this #3 the sound is darker and more polished and well, not as good. Valera sounds like she’s aching about lost love and in doing so keeps the hooks to a minimum. A little El Perro Del Mar-ish but not as good. www.krecs.com
UNBUNNY- MOON FOOD- HIDDEN AGNEDA/PARASOL- Jarid Del Deo’s first full-length in 6 years and I’m starting to tire of the Unbunny thang. He is still mixing the lo-finess of early Sebadoh with that cracked yodel of Neil Young (listen to “Young Men are Easy Prey”) and you;ll see where Unbunny falls but the songwriting is just ok. Time for a new moniker Jarid? www.parasol.com
DAN WALLACE- DEN OF MANIACS- TORITO BRAVO- I have heard one of Wallace’s previous records and while I liked that one (NEON AND GOLD) a bit more this one is all over the map, like eh was trying to get all of the sounds in his head out in one fell swoop. Opener “Look at Me” had an obnoxious guitar solo but the lower-key “Go Away” was much more pleasant. The rest of it is a mix of folk, prog, pop and experimental. Sometimes hitting the mark and others falling far form it. www.danwallacemusic.com
THE WHITSUNDAYS- SAUL- FRIENDLY FIRE- This Canadian bunch, led by keyboard-collector Paul Arnusch offer more moody pop on their 2nd release here after their 2008 debut. The songs are darker here and took me longer to get into but after a few listens the tunes began to stick. The Outrageous Cherry-ish “Oh Madeline” and the guitar heavy “I Can’t Get off of my Cloud” are two excellent places to start. www.friendlyfirerecords.com
WOODSMAN- MYSTERY TAPE- LEFSE- 5 tunes from these bearded hippies from Denver. They call this stuff “experiemental ambient post-psychedelic” and while that doesn’t sound so great I’m not sure I could describe it better. Normally not my cuppa tea but found myself really enjoying these songs (final song, “Smells like Purple” , is like 30 minutes long). Dig. www.lefserecords.com
JUNE 2010
100 MONKEYS- GRAPE!- SELF RELEASED- LA bunch who fuse funk and folk (not a good idea, kids) and have an actor from TWILIHGT in its ranks. 2 reasons to hate ‘em right there. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. www.100monkeysmusic.com
THE ANYTHING PEOPLE- ANYTHOLOGY- SELF RELEASED- If you dig that 60’s beat sound of bands like The Seeds, The Standells and the like then this NYC combo will tickle your fancy. They have the sound down , but this is no mere imitation, T.A.P. write original songs that groove and sway with the best of them. Check out groovy cuts like “Left Side” and “My Head is Spinning.” Righteous!www.myspace.com/nyctheanythingpeople
JAY BANERJEE- THREE SONGS- SELF RELEASED- Stripped down hooky pop tunes from this NYC songwriter. Not a lot of info on this but good tunes and I do want to hear more. My pick to click is “No Way Girl.” www.jaybanerjee.net
BATUSIS- EP- SMOG VEIL- This is the teaming up on Dead Boys’ Cheetah Chrome and NY Dolls Sylvain Sylvain and it’s mostly meaty 70’s rock. Opening cut “Blues Theme” has a surf rock vibe to it (as does last song “Big Cat Stomp”) while “What You Lack in Brains” is glammier with some cool keys and Cheetah’s “Bury You Alive” is punkier (and not as good). www.smogveil.com
BEACH FOSSILS- S/T- CAPTURED TRACKS- Another fine release from this C.T. labe. This is a Brooklynite (via North Carolina) Dustin Payseur who recorded most of this by himself though, he later found some bandmates who helped out on a few of the recordings. This initially reminded me of the Real Estate record a bit, which is reverby, moody pop songs with guitars that come off as jangly, psychedelic and experimental all at the same time (which is no mean feat) but songs you can tap your foot to (no crashing bores on here). Well done. www.capturedtracks.com
THAVIUS BECK- DIALOGUE- MUSH- LA producer who runs his rhymes a mile a minute and has a mouth like a truck driver (which I can certainly appreciate). This Is 15 musical collages with beats, keys, loops, samples and the like. I’m playing this at the next Hills party. Well done, Thav. www.mushrecords.com
BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE- WHO KILELD SGT. PEPPER?- A RECORDS- 13 more songs of love, jealousy and insanity from Anton Newcombe and his roving band of musical gypsies. The last song is over 10 minutes long and 4 others top the 6 minute mark and one song is called “Let’s Go Fucking Mental.” I’m not always sure what he’s on about but I have to hand it to Mr. Newcombe, he has once again confounded we, thee listeners with another unique record. Gotta give credit where credit is due. My fave here is “Tunger Hnifur.” www.brianjonestownmassacre.com
SCOTT BROOKMAN- A SONG FOR ME, A SONG FOR YOU- SELF RELEASED- Long lost indie pop songwriter Scott Brookman (who had some released on the Twee Kitten label over a decade ago) resurfaces in Virginia (maybe he was there all along?) and offers up 14 more slices of his pop lite (think High Llamas). Lots of bouncy keys and plenty of good songs too. Check out “The First Assault Upon My Day” and “Getting Involved”, just two of many worth hearing. Available at CD Baby. www.cdbaby.com or www.scottbrookman.com
THE BULLETPROOF VESTS- ATTACK!- ELECTRIC ROOM- Terrific new Memphis band who do it all right. They seem to have a perfect amount of swagger and restraint (ok, more of the former) on these 10 tunes mixing power pop, straight rock and even some groovy r & b to the proceedings. Opening cut “Magic Wand” is a rousing romp while “Darlin’ Wait” is a melodic stomper and heck, there’s not a bad tune in the bunch. At a little over 30 minutes these 5 young men don’t necessarily rewrite the book on rock but add an appendix to it. A gem that deserves to be found. www.electricroomonline.com
CARTA- AN INDEX OF BIRDS- SILBER- Bay Area 7-piece band who, like Low or Piano Magic before them, create sad , sweeping songs that are mostly instrumental. When vocalist Kyle Monday does sing it adds another dimension to the songs as well as his rich baritone is a unque instrument itself. Check out the gorgeous “Hourglass” or the moving “Satander.” www.silbermedia.com
CROSSING GUARDS- REVENGE OF THE TALL BOYS- ECLETONE- This Mpls band is heavy on guitars and seem to have snaked a bit of influence from other Twin Cities rockers like The Replacements (‘natch) and Soul Asylum but main songwriter Martin Devaney also has some Costello-isms in him too. This is solid and needs to be heard by in discriminating ears. www.ecletone.com
COREY DARGEL- SOMEONE WILL TAKE CARE FO ME- NEW AMSTERDAM- This is a 2-cd set of what is apparently 2 song cycles based on, as the press sheet says, “Dargel’s acclaimed music theatre pieces, THIRTEEN NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCES and REMOVABLE PARTS. It’s mostly bouncy pop music with lots of piano and woodwinds too. The art pop crowd mi ght love this, I didn’t. www.newamsterdamrecords.com
DEARLY BELOVED- MAKE IT BLEED- ZOE- Over-produced pop rock from Canada with slick synth work and glossy vocals trying not to sound glossy. There are some decent pop hooks but it all sounds too modern rock radio for me. I’ll pass. www.myspace.com/dearlybeloved
ALELA & ALINA- ALELA DIANE & ALINA HARDIN- ep- ROUGH TRADE- ^ songs form these two lovely-voiced women that is in the folky, Joanna Newsom vein. Gorgeous. www.roughtraderecords.com
THE DIG- ELECTRIC TOYS- SELF RELEASED- Moody, modern rock quartet who have some Radiohead influence. Not awful or anything but I can’t say much more. Produced by Bryce Goggin. www.thedigmusic.com
DIRT MALL- PACIFUEGO- DAYKAMP- This Boston band isn’t gonna make you forget SSD or Slapshot but this is decent hard rock with some nice hooks. At times the guitars get a bit too wanky for my liking but again, not bad. www.daykamprecords.com
EDDY CURRENT SUPPRESSION RING- RUSH TO RELAX- GONER- I loved this Aussies band’s 2nd record from 2008 (PRIMARY COLOURS) but one this one they experiement a bit (a few ballads and 2 songs over 6 minutes…one being the final tune, the nearly 25 minute title track….ugh). I say go back to happily bashing away for 2 minutes, please (like on “I Got a Feeling”). www.goner-records.com
FELIX OBELIX- THE TICK OF THE CLOCK, THE BEAT IN THE CHEST- POX WORLD EMPIRE- Carrboro, NC bunch with an eclectic sound that includes glocks and a vibraphone but it is the vocals of Wendy Spitzer that I am having trouble taking. She sounds like…well, I’m not quite sure but she can wail. Interesting arrangement but… www.poxworldempire.org
FINFANGFOOM- MONOMYTH- LOVITT- Post-rock trio from Chapel Hill who return (after 6 years0 with their 3rd full-length. These 9 songs could be considered post math-rock what with their tight , complex structures but this is a lot more subtle than most mathy stuff I’ve heard. Quite talented, they are. “Regret” is my pick to click here. www.lovitt.com
FINGER- STILL IN BOXES 1990-1993- SECOND MOTION- NC bunch (who once had a single on Merge) who were in the wrong place at the wrong time. This sort of heavily guitared rock (with plenty of hooks and heart) is in vogue now but at the time people didn’t know what to do with them. This takes 19 (including a bonus one) tracks from their one full-lengths plus singles, comps, etc. Give it a listen and you’ll agree they really deserved better at the time but kudos to Second Motion for unearthing this stuff. www.secondmotionrecords.com
GANGCHARGER- THE METAL SUN ep- SELF RELEASED- Denver bunch going for a Sonic Youth-ish wall of noise on this debut ep and hit the mark a handful or times, too. Not a bad way to start and I did really like “Secret Destroyer.” I do NOT like the band name though. Can you please change it for me, guys? www.gangcharger.com
GIFT HORSE- MOUNTAIN OF YOUTH- SELF RELEASED- Athens, GA quartet who create a sort of droning, hypnotic sound courtesy of some heavy keyboard use. At times they sound a bit like MBV while other times like Austin’s Black Angels. Always nice to be pleasantly surprised by a band you have never heard before. www.myspace.com/gifthorsetheband
THE GO FIND- EVERYBODY KNOWS THIS IS GONNA HAPPEN ONLY NOT TONIGHT- MORR MUSIC- Enjoyed this Belgians band (basically the work of one guy, Dieter Sermeus) 2nd record from a few years ago, STARS ON THE WALL. This 3rd disc is just as good, laid back keyboards, soothing rhythms and Dieter’s chill vocals. You’re lonely no more. www.morrmusic.com
THE GOAT & THE OCCASIONAL OTHERS- THE GOAT SPEAKS- WEREWOLF HEART- Pro skateboarders with too much time on their hands so they formed a band (or so says the press sheet). I really wish they could have found something else to do instead of form a band because if that was the case we wouldn’t have to sit through this abysmal faux punk record. www.werewolfheart.com
GRAVE WITH NO NAME- MOUNTAIN DEBRIS- LEFSE- A bedroom project by Londoner Alex Shields that is now, I believe, a real band. Some of these tunes are underwater gurgles while others reminded me of early (Vampire on Titus) GBV stuff. Not bad. www.lefserecords.com
HUW JACOB- HIGHER EVERY DAY- HEJ- Solid debut from this guy from a musical family from Manchester, England. With a strong backing band behind him Jacob cranks out 11 nice pop nuggets in the Beatles vein (with a bit of Teenage Fanclub too). Opener “Howdyaknow” was a nice start but he then dives into 3 or 4 slower tunes only to pop back up for the melodic “Abide.” Pop fans take note. www.huwjacob.com
HYPERNOVA- THROUGH THE CHAOS- NARNACK- A dark, new wavey dance rock band (think Psychedelic Furs meets Franz Ferdinand and you’re in the ballpark) who formed in….Iran?! Yup, apparently they had to play this style of Western music secretly as to not get arrested (or worse) . The band moved to the USA and now call Brooklyn home and have an obvious political bent (a few song titles: “Viva la Resistance”, “American Dream”, “Empty Times”, etc.) but solid tunes. www.narnackrecords.com
JAMIE & STEVE- ENGLISH AFTERTHOUGHTS- LOADED GOAT- When you have the 2 main guys from The Spongetones on a record is it a Spongetones record? Well, maybe but Mssrs. Hoover and Stoeckel went under their first names for this one but they’re still doing what they do best: create marvelous, jangly Beatles-esque rock. One listen to opener “Emily’s Ghost” or 2nd tune “Fly Girl” or #3, “Let’s Don’t Count This One” and you’ll know what you’re in for. It’s not like this review is gonna “undiscover” them or anything but still, you really need to hear this. www.myspace.com/hooverama
KINGS OF CONVENIENCE- DECLARATION OF DEPENDENCE- ASRTRALWERKS- Everyone’s favorite, gentle Norwegian duo of Erlend and Erik are back with their thirds record (seems like they have been around longer than that, doesn’t it?). These 13 songs are more of what you come to expect from these guys, not a lot of surprises here. I think I like this one a bit less than the other two and I hear fewer hooks. Also, the songs are sparser but they are still the modern day equivalent of Simon & Garfunkel and I’ll always take that. www.astralwerks.com
KNIFE THE SYMPHONY- DEAD TONGUES- PHRATRY- Midwestern trio who seem to have taken some cues from early Husker Du but some of this stuff rocks in a more angular fashion like current Dischord band too. Vocalist must’ve had a major sore throat after this recording session. www.phratryrecords.com
THE LAW- A MEASURE OF WEALTH- LOCAL BOY- Dundee, Scotland is the home of these cocky young upstarts who go for an Oasis-like swagger on this debut and hit the mark a lot. The opening tune, “Don’t Stop, Believe” is more stoner hard rock but the rest of the record is catchy Brit pop (so skip that first tune). And I hear reminders of the Gallagher Bros, Pulp (“The Chase”), The Libertines (“Local Boy Lost”) and lots more. They’re shooting for the big time and just might get there. It’s a fun record and these lads look like they might burn out before record #2 comes along (easy on the booze and substances, fellas) so keep cheering ‘em on. www.thelawmusic.com
LEFT ME BASHFUL- HEART’S IN THE RIGHT PLACE- SELF RELEASED- % song ep that wouold not play in my cd player for some odd reason. Their CD Baby page says RIYL Ben Folds and Coldplay so I dunno about this one. www.myspace.com/leftmebashful
LOOK MEXICO- TO BED TO BATTLE- SUBURBAN HOME- On this sophomore effort, this Tallahassee band further refines their emo sound (with some math rock tossed in ). The band can certainly play but the pleading vocals and crisp arrangement rub me the wrong way. Can’t exactly put my finger on it but I know it when I hear it. Not necessarily bad, just not my cuppa tea. www.suburbanhomerecords.com
MANIC STREET PREACHERS- JOURNAL FOR PLAGUE LOVERS- COLUMBIA- In which this Welsh band use lyrics from ex-member Richey James Edwards (ie: Richey Manic) in all of the songs, only thing being is that Richie has been gone (missing) for 15 years. The band , fresh with Richie lyrics in hand, entered the studio with Steve Albini and ground out 13 more slices what they do best: create fiery, incendiary music with guts and passion. www.manics.co.uk
MARCHING BAND- POP CYCLE- U & L- Wow, had never heard of this Swedish duo before but I’m glad someone sent me this. This is mature, marching pop that’s well-produced and well written. A bit in the Teenage Fanclub vein but with a Swedish bent. 10 songs and no filler. This is superb. www.urbandlazar.com
MARK MATOS & OS BEACHES- WORDS OF THE KNIFE- PORTO FRANCO- Nice , languid, vaguely psychedelic country stuff (I hear a pedal steel) with Mark’s earthy vocals (and lyrics). Some tropicalia even slips into the fold on the nearly 11-minute “Warrior & the Thief” is quite the opus. www.portofrancorecords.com
NEW MODEL ARMY- TODAY IS A GOOD DAY- ATTACK ATTACK- I know this band and this highly charged political message has won them many fans over the years but I don’t count as one. I could care less about the politics and most of the songs don’t rock (though admittedly, a few do). www.myspace.com/newmodelarmymyspace
NORMAN- HAY HAY MAKES A WISH TURN AWAY- TIMBER CARNIVAL- Had no idea these guys were from Oregon but yup, they sure are. These cats, like other NW artists Blitzen Trapper, Fleet Foxes, etc find influence in the twang-lings of Flying Burrito Bros, Byrds, Uncle Tupelo, etc. At times it gets a bit jammy for my liking but mostly these tunes are well written and have lots of heart (and hooks). Will look for ‘em on the liver circuit. www.petmarmoset.com
PARKAS- YOU SHOULD HAVE KILLED US WHEN YOU HAD THE CHANCE- SAVED BY RADIO- This Canadian band has been around for nearly a decade and I know I have at least one of their other cds. I guess the band has called it quits and decided to release this farewell record. “Isolation pay” was a gutsy rocker in the Springsteen vein as was “Waxwing.” Nice way to go out, guys.
PIRATE LOVE- BLACK VODOUN SPACE BLUES- KONG TIKI- Everyone and anyone involved in the making of this awful Norwegian band’s record should be taken out and shot. This blows. www.kongtiki.com
PRESTON GREY- FIRST AND VINE- FTG- RIYL Dave Matthews and Jack Johnson. Not me, pal.
RAYMILLAND- RECORDINGS ’79-’81- BDR- Very short-lived St. Louis band that I am not even going to act like I had heard of previously. These 12 songs come from a demo tape, a single that came with Praxis magazine, a song form one of the old Sub Pop tapes and some rehearsal tapes. The song is obscure post-punk with tweaked keys and even more fucked vocals. Just weird enough for me to like it. Seriously, one listen to opening cut “No Good Trying” will seal it for you (or not). (BDR: PO Box 19202 St Louis, MO 63118-9202)
JEFF RIDDLE- 16 REASONS TO KILL- ANARCHY PANCAKES- Apparently this guy is known through his local circles in S.C. as being in a gnarly punk band (called Steve Hit Mike). But on this solo record, Riddle turned off his amps, busted out his acoustic guitar and went folk on us. Well, folk with “lots of salty language”, as he says. I’m gonna be more Randy Jackson then Simon Cowell here and say I like it. www.myspace.com/shitshortsmcriddle
SCRAPING FOR CHANGE- BREAKING THE SILENCE ep- SELF RELEASED- I knew I’d hate this before even listening to it judging by the band name, the artwork on the cover and the photo of the guys. I was expecting some bad gutter punk but this is bad modern rock with keyboards and “serious” vocals. www.myspace.com/scrapingforchange
SEEDHILL BRUISER- SEEDHILL FOLK SONGS- POX WORLD EMPIRE- Get this, press sheet says “haunting , dreamy songs from a Scot who is a gay, schizophrenic recluse.” Whoa, a lot to take in but while heavy, this is good stuff. Main guy Tim Wilson layers his folk music in shards of ethereal fuzz and it sounds a bit Cocteau Twins ish with some MBV tossed in (plus some folk, think Stephin Merritt). In “The Gay Highwayman” he might have his first pop hit, let’s hope, www.poxworldempire.org
SENRYU- INKLING- EL DETH- Knoxville , TN bunch who wanna go for eclectic (like Gorky’s Zygotic Mynci) but end up with a big mess on their hands. I don’t even know where to begin on this one but how about starting with a whole new band (and whomever’s idea it was to put the song titles on the back in dark green set against the black background, good job). www.myspace.com/senryu
SHARK SPEED- EDUCATION ep- SELF RELEASED- Thus band hails from Provo, UT of all places but I don’t care if they’re from Timbuktu, this is well-played crystalline pop. Only 4 tunes but you’ll get the picture pretty quickly. Opener “King of the World” is in the Ra Ra Riot vein (a bit of DCFC and Helio Sequence too). I’ve heard they have a full-length out and it sounds like I need to hear it. www.myspace.com/sharkspeedrawks
THE SMALL CHANGE- EVERY LINE IN MY HEAD- UNSMASHABLE- Wow, another terrific Unsmashable release (also check out The Doll Test and The Riffbrokers) . Apparently this is their 3rd record which means I need to hear the other two! Hard-driving power pop played with guts, soul and passion. No surprised that it’s produced by Johnny Sangster (mastered by Kurt Bloch) but no info on band members. Still, pick this one up pronto, not a band tune in the bunch. The opening cut, “From the East Coast’ will be the perfect litmus test for you as to whether you’ll love it or not. www.unsmashablerecords.com
SOURPATCH- CRUSHIN’- HHBTM- I think I was getting this San Jose, CA band mixed up with Sukpatch but I LIKE this band. The opening guitars of “It’s So Strange” will remind you of Sacramento’s late/great Tiger Trap and the female vocals are close too. The songs are short and fun with gooey melodies and there’s really nothing to not like here. Capiche’? www.hhbtm.com
ANGELO SPENCER ET LES HAUTS SOMMETS- S/T- K- This 10 song all instrumental breeze by in 30 minutes and sounds like a soundtrack to a Harmony Korine flick. It even gets bit surfy at times. www.krecs.com
STANDISH ARMS THERE’S A DISTINCT POSSIBILITY I’VE NEVER WOKEN UP- SELF RELEASED- Lo-fi pop that’s a bit on the sappy side. I did hear some nice strings and some ok melodies but the vocals wore me out a bit. Just sorta there.
SUNSET- GOLD DISSOLVES TO GRAY- AUTOBUS- Former Sound Team guy (Bill Baird) goes a bit slanted and enchanted on record number 4 on us. He’s trying a little bit of everything and most of it works. www.autobusrecs.com
TAPE DECK MOUNTAIN- GHOSTS- LEFSE- Brainchild of unemployed San Diego native Travis Trevisan. Fuzzy nuggets of melodies occasionally pop up but most of this meanders too much and a lot of it sounded way too self-conscious. I’m waiting for the punch and it hasn’t come yet. www.lefserecords.com
TINDERSTICKS- FALLING DOWN A MOUNTAIN- CONSTELLATION- Hard to believe these UK suave poppers (led by the elusive Stuart Staples) have been around for nearly 2 decades and i have to admit it has been nearly half that long since I’ve heard them. 10 minutes in (the first 2 songs, one being thee opening title track) and you’re still waiting for Staple’s coffee to kick in but by track three, the beautiful pop song “Harmony Around My Table” it finally does. Gentle piano pop song “Peanuts’ is a keeper as is the vaguely western (??!!) “She Rode Me Down” with Staples once again bellowing out cool vocals (ala Scott Walker). Tindersticks, you’ve done it again. www.cstrecords.com
TWO HOURS TRAFFIC- TERRITORY- BUMSTEAD- I really dug this band record from 2007, LITTLE JABS. This one had a promising beginning with the terrific opening cut “Noisemaker” but from there the song either got weak (“Wicked Side”) or sounded a bit overproduced. Actually the tltle track was really good too. I need to give it another listen but it definitely is not LITTLE JABS. www.twohourstraffic.com
STUART VALENTINE- A GOOD MAN NEEDS NO CREDIT, A BAD MAN DESERVES NONE- SELF RELEASED- Low-key Portland musician Stuart Valentine is too darn good to be so unknown. This new ep features 6 songs that were written over the last decade but just recorded last year. The guy is a born pop songwriter and in a different era would’ve been employed by the Brill Building. He’s obviously a Beatles/Beach Boys fan and all 6 of these cuts are worth of your time. www.stuartvalentine.net
VISQUEEN- MESSAGE TO GARCIA- LOCAL 638- Seattle trio Visqueen are back are a short hiatus (leader Rachel Flotard was taking care of her sick dad, who eventually died) with record #3 and the songs come fast and furious. There’s plenty o’ hooks and even some horns (check out opening cut “Hand Me Down”) and piano (“The Capitol”) and both (“Summer Snow”) plenty of plain ol’ guitars. If you miss The Muffs (or hoped for a female-led Buzzcocks) then this is more than an able replacement. www.local638records.com
VLOR- SIX-WINGED- SILBER- This NC band, led by Silber Media head John Brian Mitchell, has been around for nearly 2 decades (hard to believe, huh/). This 16 songs record is mostly ambient waves with the occasional melody and occasional vocals as well. Not my cuppa tea exactly but still, music is made with heart and a sense of adventure. www.silbermedia.com
WALKING SLEEP- MEASURES- SELF RELEASED- LA 6-piece, led by Hunter Curra, who used to be known as The Flying Tourbillion Orchestra but changed it to something, uh, better. These 10 songs unfold with swaying strings and some nice keyboard bounce too (I enjoyed the female vocals, too). At times I want to hear some stickier melodies but still, this isn’t bad. For fans of The Zombies. www.myspace.com/walkingsleep
WALLACE- PLAYING WITH FIRE- SELF RELEASED- Folky, Dylan-esque tunes (5 songs on here) from this BKNY dude armed with an acoustic guitar and a harmonica. He can play bit it comes off as a bit heavy-handed at times (actually more vocally than playing-wish). I did like “The Lies.”
ZEUS- SAY US- ARTS & CRAFTS- A few of these cats used to back roots dude Jason Collett but this is more pop akin to the Beatles or Canadian compatriots, Sloan. The band has 3 distinctive songwriters , each one more than capable of minor gems. Well worth your time. www.arts-crafts.ca
V/A- DORM SESSIONS 7- HEAVY ROTATION- This is a compilation of student musicians at Boston’s Berklee School of Music. There are 9 artists offering 2 songs each and up first id Ann Driscoll with a nice pop tune in “I Wanna Be Your Zombie” while Jordan Tarrant offers up a groovier, vaguely Western number in “64 Dollars.” Liz Langley has some lovely singer/songwriter tunes with a strong voice and Liptease uses loops and synths for unique sound. The others (Ton Soldier, Julia Easterlin, Black Kettle, Tais Alverenga and KR 8 the Future) all offer promise too. www.hrrecords.com
MAY 2010
SCOTT ALEXANDER- MAKE 7 OR 8 DOLLARS- SELF RELEASED- Brooklyn via Minnesota guy who actually studied bassoon at college for a bit and then ethnomusicology. What? He writes these quirky pop songs in his bedroom and calling them either “pop” or “songs” might be a stretch. He said he thinks being famous “would be annoying” so don’t worry, I don’t think you have anything to worry about, Scott. www.scottalexandermusic.com
BRENT AMAKER & THE RODEO- PLEASE STAND BY- SELF RELEASED- These Seattle, WA scene veterans apparently have quite a hardcore following both in the Emerald City and wherever else they happen to play. This is record #3 and it is more of that Johnny Cash-infused twang that the band seems to have corned the market on. Brent is on vocals while the Rodeo lays down a cool , dusty groove and all 12 of these tunes are worth of repeated listens. www.myspace.com/brentamakerandtheroseo
THE AMERICAN DOLLAR- ATLAS- YEAH MUSIC- Minimalist NYC duo of John and Richard craft lush electronic soundscapes and I guess the closest comparison would be The Album Leaf. I wondered if they were new but they have four other records so they have been around for a while to hone their craft and hone it they have as most of this is excellent. www.theamericandollar.info
THE AMERICAN PROFESSIONALS- THE SPECIALIST- SELF RELEASED- Only 4 tunes on this one and their first record since their 2004 debut. Heavy on the gee-tar (always fine by me) as the title track and “Jump This Train” were both 4th gear the whole way. I still need to hear that debut. www.myspace.com/theamericanprofessionals
ARCHEOLOGY- MEMORIAL- SELF RELEASED- Two dudes who met at an archaeology research site in Washington and not only were both of their parents preachers but, these guys look eerily alike too. Whoah. They released 5 eps in year and this is their first full-length and they have a terrific pop sensibility. Something about this record gives it the feel of a lost 60’s classic every time I hear it. Giver a listen to “By the By” and you’ll see what I mean. These guys are going places and if they’re not, well, they should be. www.myspace.com/archeology
BALMORHEA- CONSTELLATIONS- WESTERN VINYL- These guys play instrumental rock with some odd touches (some classical here, a banjo there) and before I realized it I was getting sucked into their web. I generally don’t like these sort of tunes with wide open spaces but something about these guys drew me in. Not sure what it was but now I want to see then live. www.westernvinyl.com
BLACK ROBOT- BADDASS- FORMOSA- Heavy, wailing hard rock boogie that fans of the genre would probably eat up but I found it annoying and forgettable. www.blackrobotmusic.com
BLAIR- DIE YOUNG- AUTUMN TONE- Brooklyn, NY (via New Orleans and then Los Angeles) gal who was born in the 80’s and a child of the 90’s (ie; she loves Beck and Nirvana). On DIE YOUNG she has cooked up some fine hazy pop with shimmering keyboards and even some violins. Blair’s vocals , thought you may have no idea what she is saying, sound like she’s lived 100 lives. And maybe she has. The key to finding out is to listen to DIE YOUNG. www.autumntone.com
BLUEBRAIN- SOFT POWER- LUJO- Electropop from Washington , DC as performed by the brothers Holladay (Hays and Ryan) and while this isn’t normally my preferred mode of listen these two guys do it well adding unique orchestration and an all-around creativeness to it. Well done chaps. www.lujorecords.com
THE BLUE VAN- MAN UP- SELF RELEASED- A Danish band who go for a 70’s sound (but the punks like ‘em). Their songs have appeared on shows like Scrubs and BH 90210. I repeat this band sucks. Badly. www.thebluevan.com
THE BUNDLES- S/T- K- This I the duo of Kimya Dawson (Moldy Peaches, etc.) and Jeffrey Lewis and while both have garnered some acclaim on their own (especially Dawson after the JUNO soundtrack) have written plenty of clever tunes when together this record didn’t hit the sweet spot I thought it would. While “Pirates Declare War’ was engaging” “Klutter” was beyond annoying. www.krecs.com
JIM CAMACHO- BEACHFRONT DEFEAT- SELF RELEASED- This guy used to be in Florida power poppers The Goods but they broke up years ago and here we have a solo Jim Camacho. Like a lot of guys out there, he has Tommy Keene syndrome. The guy has a good, emotive voice and can write good songs but this type of singer/songwriter stuff never seems to have caught on and I’m guessing, never will. Don’t let it stop you from hearing this guy’s tunes though (“Long Ago”, the title track, etc.). www.jimcamacho.com
CINDERPOP- CINAMON WINTER- POPOGANDA- More, dreamy 60’s pop from this fine Canadioan band. I have their two previous full-lengths that I really enjoyed and these 5 songs are more of the same. The title track is just dreamy (think the Left Banke). www.cinderpop.com
CLEM SNIDE- THE MEAT OF LIFE- 429- I thought that when leader Eef Barzelay began releasing solo records that his band, Clem Snide was long gone. Glad to see they are back. I have always liked their hazy, low-key pop sound like on the opener, “Walmart Parking Lot” where Barzelay croons the word “beautiful” over and over again to lasting effect. Beautiful is right, just like Clem Snide. www.429records.com
CREEPY – STRONG LIES KILL HIGHS- TEENO- New wavey punk from the Bay Area who are heavily influenced by Good Riddance and seem like they’re shooting for some kind of punk stardom. Go for it guys. www.myspace.com/creepy
DEATH BY STEAMSHIP- THE FALL OF THE VIADUCT- WHOA BOAT- These art-damaged Seattle punks take very little seriously. But their music they take very seriously. Best song title: “These Song for a Belltown Pseudo Yuppie.” www.whoaboat.com
DESTROYAH- DISC OF THE DAMNED- SIQ- Hawaiian nutjob who wants to be Prince. www.myspace.com/djdestroyah
THE DOLLY ROCKER MOVEMENT- OUR DAYS MIND THEE TYME- BAD AFRO- Aussie psych rockers who shoot us straight back to 1967 on their 3rd record with heavy doses of acoustic guitar (and plenty of electric too) , organ and cosmic lyrics/vocals. They handle it in the same way BJM does , not being stuck in the 60’s but taking bits ‘n pieces from it and these guys write good songs too, which really is most important. Not a bad song on here. www.myspace.com/badafrorecords.
E-GRAND- S/T- SELF RELEASED- E-grand has written some pretty pretentious comments on his myspace page but you know what? The guy can back it all up with good songs. The guy , who hails from the UK (I think) has some serious talent and he has taken his love of artists like Morrissey, Leonard Cohen, Bowie, etc. and cobbled them together into a fine pop stew. Check out winners like “The Retired man’s Blues”, “Magical Love” and “Domestic Whore” just to name three. Lend him your ears. www.myspace.com/egrandmusic
EUREKA CALIFORNIA- EUREKA CALIFORNIA IS DEAD- SELF RELEASED- Almost as good asd The Blue Van.
FANSHAW- DARK EYES- MINT- Fanshaw, is the nom de plume of one Olivia Fetherstonhaugh, a Canadian who is also a member of The Choir Practice. Apparently this solo debut was 5 years in the making (and is a tribute to writer Anais Nin, of sorts) but it doesn’t sound like overcooked, perfectionist stuff. On the contrary, she writes nice songs and has a lovely set of pipes . The songs are a bit dark and broodings and sometimes creep along at a glacial pace but that just adds to the mystique. www.mintrecs.com
GILLS AND WINGS- S/T EP- SELF RELEASED- Virginia Beach,VA quintet who go for the pomp and circumstance of Queen (in a good way) with these 5 songs. “Rebirth of a Nation” is the best song on here with a unpredictable swagger to it and both “Catastrophe” and “Man in the Well” (sorta Keane-ish) come close. Nice. www.myspace.com/gillsandwings
GLOSSARY- FERAL FIRE- LIBERTY & LAMENT- This Tennessee bunch have been around since 1997 (debut record came out in ’98) but I’m not gonna pretend like I had heard of them before. Still, frontman Joey Kneiser is a good songwriter and the players seem quite talented. First tune, “Lonely is a Town” has a “Boys are Back in Town” chug to it (just add twang) and , well, so does song #2 (“Save Your Money for the Weekend”). The band is not afraid to put the hammer down or let up and go acoustic either. If they ever come to Portland I’ll change plans to see ‘em. www.myspace.com/glossary
GRAND ATLANTIC- HOW WE SURVIVE- LAUGHING OUTLAW- These Aussies are back with their 2nd record and they have a penchant for big hooks and a big sound overall. They veer between straight up guitar pop tunes (like the opener “Coast is Clear”) and more synth-oriented stuff (which I liked less) like “Tripwires.” I did like the sunnier “Used to Be the Sensitive Type” and overall I didn’t love the record but not bad. www.laughingoutlaw.com.au
CALVIN HARRIS- READY FOR THE WEEKEND- SONY BMG- Dance house music by this Scottish guy who has apparently become quite the stir the past few years. Is he a Paul Oakenfold with horn-rimmed glasses? Maybe but I still don’t get it.
CURTIS HARVEY- BOX OF STONES- FAT-CAT- Former Rex frontman (and Pullman member) Harvey takes out his dusty acoustic guitar for these 12 songs. Folky, dustbowl tunes with a creaky voice and a strumming affinity for John Fahey (his biggest influence) makes this one an engaging listen. “Seen” was my favorite tune here. www.fatcat-usa.com
THE HELIGOATS- GOODNESS GRACIOUS- GREYDEY- I have a problem with any band with goat in its name….except these guys. Leader Chris Otepka writes clever lines on an acoustic guitar and can find his way around a melody pretty well too. These guys should be as big as , I dunno, maybe the Apples in Stereo, one day. I won’t hold my breath but GOODNESS GRACIOUS is an engaging listen. www.greydayrecords.com
HITS- LIVING WITH YOU IS KILLING ME- MERE NOISE- Ragtag Aussie bunch led by a vocalist named Evil Dick. Song titles include “Fuck the Needy”, “Crackpipe” and “Touch of the Shorts” to name a few. Guitars are cranked up to 11 and fans of The Stooges will want to go along for the ride. Oh, I hear they like to drink, too. www.merenoise.net
WILLIAM HUT- SILENT HIM- UNIVERSAL/MERCURY- Chrome-domed Norwegian guy who was previously in Poor Rich Ones releases his 5th solo record here. It’s mostly dramatic, sweeping and grandiose pop that sounds a lot better here in my office than when I was listening to it out in the garage. I didn’t love it but it was solid and had moments of near perfection. (horns on “Soulcity House”). www.myspace.com/williamhut
JOOKABOX- DEAD ZONE BOYS- ASTHMATIC KITTY/ JOYFUL NOISE- Formerly Grampall Jookabox , this is David “Moose” Adamson’s 3rd record under that moniker (or partial moniker now) and this is more of the same: clumsy beats and tweaked (not in a good way) vocals. Saying I hated every second of this would be kind. www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com
JULIEN-K- DEATH TO ANALOG- METROPOLIS- Guys from Orgy doing industrial dance. Wee! Nearly as good as Karnivool.
KARNIVOOL- SOUND AWAKE- SONY- I know when a record is described as nu metal (not new) it’s not gonna be my bag at all and this Perth, Australia bunch definitely fall into that category. For fans of Tool.
LAWRENCE ARABIA- CHANT DARLING- BELLA UNION- I should love this record, this guy (James Milne) not only cites the Beach Boys as a big influence but was also in two fine New Zealand bands, the Brunettes and The Ruby Suns. I dunno, the first few listens I was left flat. Recorded all over the place the record is a pop patchwork that I’m still trying to wrap my head around. I dunno, maybe I never will. www.yeproc.com
THE LIONS RAMPANT- IT’S FUN TO DO BAD THINGS- DEEP ELM- The Deep Elm label was emo central for years but this Kentucky trio ain’t emo! These guys seem like they don’t want the party to ever end and apparently are hoot live. This is bluesy r & b garage punk swagger in the vein of The Dirtbombs. “Lights On” will get the party started here. www.deepelm.com
LITTLE TYBEE- BUILDING A BOMB- SELF RELEASED- Low-key Atlanta band led by songwriter Brock Scott who sounds like he might be trying to be more southern than he is but what do I know. There is some tasteful violin on most tracks and I really like the songs. My only regret is not listening to it sooner (I have had it for months). www.myspace.com/littletybee
ZACH LUPETIN & THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL- YOU CAN’T GO BACK TO THE GARDEN OF EDEN- SELF RELEASED- About 10 folks in the Venice, CA collective who manage to mix a whole heap o’ styles into one enjoyable stew. You’ll hear Dixieland jazz, folk, bluegrass, gospel and some blues and swing too. This doesn’t; sound like they’re trying to jump on any bandwagon just a group of musicians who are having some fun and paying homage to the music they love. znlupetin@gmail.com
JANE BAXTER MILLER- HARMOM AMONG THE WILLOWS- SELF RELEASED- Was surprised not to see a Bloodshot sticker on the back of the record from this Chicago resident. The tunes have a real twang to ‘em and Jane has a unique voice with a real honky tonk down home sound and the guitar work, by Grant Tye, sounded nifty too. www.janebaxtermiller.com
MOTION TURNS IT ON- KALEIDOSCOPE EQUINOX- CHOCOLATE LAB- Houston, TX bunch who whip a million different elements into their psychedelic stew, at times gratingly annoying and other times bordering on beautiful and occasionally both in the same song (see “Occipitalized”). Still not sure what to make of it all.
MUSIC FROM THE FILM- PLAYFULLY ABRASIVE- SELF RELEASED- This one (see below review) would not play but still, 24 “songs.” Drop ‘em a line, they’ll fuck with you a bit. www.myspace.com/musicfromthefilm
MUSIC FROM THE FILM- WORD WAR TREE- SELF RELEASED- Sounds like Gary Young (not that one) and Arthur Harrison were two peas in a pod. If it is considered a “sound” they will record it and record it well. The record opens and closes with chainsaws but in between are glockenspiels, maracas, metal, banjos, metal, a fan, chims, metal. Did I say metal? www.myspace.com/musicfromthefilm
MUSIKANTO- GHOST PAIN- SELF RELEASED- Singer-songwriter tunes from a guy who was formerly in Chicago band Sleeper Car (I remember liking one of their records). Judging by the cover i thought I was going to be some bad world music but this is good straightforward batch of tune w/ some occasional pedal steel and horns, www.musikantomusic.com
MV + EE- BARN NOVA- ECSTATIC PEACE- Like a countrifried version of that first Royal Trux record. www.ecstaticpeace.com
NANA GRIZOL- EUTH- ORANGE TWIN- Athens, GSA supergroup of sorts featuring Laura Carter (Elf Power, Neutral Milk Hotel, etc.), Robbie Cucchiaro (NMH, Music Tapes, etc.)and plenty of others. Like a lot of bands from that town, there is a real looseness to them that give it that Elephant 6-ness (early Pavement too) that seems to only come from bands based there. Listen to “Blackbox”, a chugging pop tune with occasionally blaring horns while “Atoms” is spare and pensive. Nice. www.orangetwin.com
NITE NITE HOW TO TOUCH THE MOON- SELF RELEASED- Dark and brooding stuff from this trio who apparently want to make goth fun again (that made me laugh so it made it more fun). . Vocals reminded me a bit of Siouxie Sioux and some of the bass lines were pretty cool but overall not mah thang. www.myspace.com/niteniteband
NOFX- COKIE THE CLOWN ep- FAT- This 5-song ep was released late last year and has a pic of Fat Mike on the cover looking like the sad, drunk clown (yes, make up and all) . The title track is a pumped-up tune in the NOFX vein (you know what I mean) as is the great “Fermented and Flailing.” They even do an acoustic track at the end (“My Orphan Year”) that was pretty funny. Not too proud to admit I like NOFX. www.fatwreck.com
PAPER CITY- S/T- MOEDOG MUSIC- Leader Marisa Predisik has apparently gone through a few different bands (Moedog Darling and Mareesa, to name a few) but this is the first I have heard her. She has breathy vocals that have some panache’ and plays the uke too. The backing instrumentation is pretty low-key but while I love a song like “You Make Me So Nervous” I didn’t like the kinda obnoxious “Hollywood.” A mixed bag with about 50% good. www.papercitymusic.com
PAST LIVES- TAPESTRY OF WEBBS- SUICIDE SQUEEZE- Ex-Blood Brothers guys (the ones who didn’t go on to Jaguar Love) on their debut record and while some folks are doing backflips I’m sitting here in my chair same as always. Opening cut “Paralyzer” sound like a moodier Bowie tune (w/ some Cars tossed in) while most cuts (“Hex Takes Hold”, Falling Spikes”, etc.) were jerkier and more energetic. Not bad but my bag. www.suicidesqueeze.net
JEREMY PORTER- PART OF ONE- MAG WHEELS- This is the same Jeremy Porte who was in Detroit power pop band The Offramps and he appears to have gone solo and is on Toronto’s Mag Wheel Records (thought that label was long gone). These 9 songs have a bit o’ Replacements feel to them with some twang, wounded vocals and sweet melodies. The beautiful “Last Time I Saw You Happy” is my pick to click here but most of this is really good. www.magwheel.com
POST HARBOR- THEY CAN’T HURT YOU IF YOU DON’T BELIEVE IN THEM- BURNING BUILDING- 10 tunes of intrumental rock (or mostly instrumental) where things start up and slow down and move swiftly form side to side. You could call it post rock but then no one would wanna hear it. Not my cuppa tea (though at times gorgeous) but if bands like Explosions in the Sky float your boat then give this a listen. www.myspace.com/postharbor
THE RAILS- PARALLEL MOVEMENTS- SELF RELEASED- Tight pop from this Cleveland, OH trio who want to go from playing the Grog Shop to wherever the Indians or Browns are playing this days. Nothing super unique but some nice hooks and well played. www.railsrailsrails.com
REGO- FROM THE ROYAL ARCADE- SELF RELEASED- Windy City gal Rebecca Rego who has an unusual voice and whose co-horts use some traditional instrumentation (Piano, pedal steel, mandolin, etc.)to create haunting folk tunes. This is her first full-length after an ep and it shows some definite promise. “Caterpillars” is my pick top click here. www.rebeccarego.com
REIGNING SOUND- LOVE AND CURSES- IN THE RED- More genius soulful garage rock/pop by these Memphis long-timers) led by legend Greg Cartwright) who after six full-lengths (including 2 live records) are not slowing down or burning out. In “The Bells” Cartwright has written one of the best songs of his career (if not my fave R.S. tune) but really it’s all good here. www.intheredrecords.com
SCREAMING FEMALES- SINGLES- DON GIOVANNI- NJ trio (with only one female in its ranks) and no , this is not a singles comp. At least I don’t think it is. Instead it’s a 6 song ep of hard-hitting/lo-fi rawk with dirty guitars and vocals that reminded me a bit of Corin Tucker Sleater-Kinney. Some of the guitar work was even Mascis-esque so how about that. www.dongiovannirecords.com
SLOW CLAW- GRANDFATHER CLOCKS- SELF RELEASED- Tennessee trio (Chris, Brian and Bob) do some nice low-key rock/pop tunes. Nothing earth-shattering here but they seem to find their groove with most tunes and I like the acoustic one too (“Colorado”). slowclaw@gmail.com
SLOW SIX- TOMORROW BECOMES YOU- WESTERN VINYL- Indie goes….classical? Yup, classical composer Christopher Tignor would probably vomit at being called “indie” (or post rock). You’ll hear whirring keyboards, sawing violins and a general sense of anything goes. This is mood music for a film that has not been made (or thought of) yet. www.westernvinyl.com
STATIC IN VERONA- BE QUIET AS YOU LEAVE- SELF RELEASED- This is Rob Merz who is also in Chicago power-poppers Ash Avenue. This is a solo side project which leans more towards indie pop and I like it more than A.A. He can eek a hook out of anything and both “Drag Me Down” and “Unlucky Stars” were my two favorites on here. www.ashave.com/staticinverona
TEALIGHTS- TAKE US BY SEA- SELF RELEASED- 6 song ep by an Atlanta, GA band who eschew that cities love of all thing drunk and garage for a dreamier bunch o tunes. They call is indielectronica and mix lot of keys and beats and even some strings (flute, too) . I enjoyed about half of these songs (especially opener “Exit”) but was lost on a few. www.myspace.com/tealightstheband
THE VIOLET HOUR- THE FIRE SERMON- SKY ROCKET- Not a Clientele tribute band but a defunct UK band who originally released this back in 1991 and it just got a proper reissue a few years back. It came in a purple velvet pouch and the band cites prog and UK folk as influences. Vocalist Doris Brendel went on to do some `solo stuff. Didn’t really turn my crank. www.dorisbrendel.com
WINTER GLOVES- A WAY TO CELEBRATE- PAPER BAG- This takes their ABOUT A GIRL record and offers up a different version of each of the 10 songs on there. Demos, alternate mixes, remixes. I prefer the real deal but this was worth hearing. www.paperbagrecords.com
JOSIAH WOLF- JET LAG- ANTICON- This is Why? guy Josiah Wolf’s (another Why? guy, his brother Yoni, produced this) solo debut and it comes after a breakup of an 11 year relationship. The guy has obviously been through a lot so it’s not like review on the DAGGER site is gonna bum him out more but this sprawling 12 song disc was , I dunno, ok. I say that because I read a lot of rave reviews but I don’t hear a work of genius but a record that has some pretty good songs on it. Out front are his gentle vocals and a lot of vibes (the instrument not a feeling). My faves here were “The Opposite of Breathing” and “The New Car.” www.anticon.com
YEAR LONG DISASTER- BLACK MAGIC: ALL MYSTERIES REVEALED- VOLCOM- Dark, hard rock form LA by a band led by two guys who met in rehab (hopefully they are still clean and sober). They reminded me of an updated version of Black Sabbath and while this kind of stuff isn’t my cuppa hot chocolate they do it pretty well. www.yearlongdisaster.com
YUKON BLONDE- S/T- BUMSTEAD- Low-key and little known Canadian quartet who write sweet, sweet pop tunes. It would have been to easy to pass this by in the BIG box o’ cds but I’m glad I didn’t. “Blood Cops” is my fave. www.bumstead.com
V/A- PERMAGRIN: THE MUSIC OF JUSTIN VEATCH BY THE IVORTON PIANO FACTORY & FRIENDS- POLYVINYL- Don’t worry, I had never heard of Justin Veatch either but he was a 17 year old musician who died in his sleep of an accidental drug overdose. Apparently he had some songs recorded and his dad saw through to finishing Justin;’s recorded projhect. Along with some friends (Owen, Hard Calibers, Stay Home, etc.) this record is 14 songs: 6 by Justin and the rest being by the bands. Some bands do the same song so it does get a bit repetitive but it is apparent that Justin had some serious talent. MY faves here were “Clean” plus “ESRT Page 14’ (Justin’s version though Owen and Hard Calibers do it too). Well worth looking into. www.polyvinylrecords.com
APRIL 2010
BEAUJOLAIS- ADMIRATIONS- PARASOL- Record number 2 from Joe Ziemba who was part of The Like Young , Busytoby and several other bands with his (now ex) wife. The marriage ended bitterly and Joe vanished only to return a year later with his new solo project, Beaujolais. The lyrics on this, like the debut are very confessional but not embarrassing, just honest while the music is a platter of pop music form synth-based stuff to the good ol’ guitar. “Elbows’ is my pick to click here but most of this is good. www.parasol.com
BRIDGES & BLINKING LIGHTS- HEROES, GUNS AND SNAKES- SELF RELEASED- Texas dudes who get a bit too riffy for my liking. Not that I mind the hard stuff but the guitars get a bit too wanky (check out “The Last March”) though I did enjoy “Consuela.” Also vocalist Jake Wilganowski has a wiling voice you might not like ( I didn’t like it on most tunes). Try with caution. www.myspace.com/bridgesandblinkinglights
THE BRONZED CHORUS- I’M THE SPRING- HELLO SIR- 8 instrumental tunes by this duo and I think a vocalist would help this band out immensely. The songs are occasionally interesting with some cool guitar passage (like on “For the City Lights”) but it mostly feels like a jam session and if anything, those NEED a vocalist.
CLARE AND THE REASONS- ARROW- FROG STAND- Clare is actually Clare Muldaur, daughter of Geoff and Maria (you remember her from her hit “Midnight at the Oasis”) and along with a little string quartet she plunks out low-key chamber pop. What is most out front is her high-pitched vocals which I can only take in small doses. This isn’t bad but I didn’t find it really memorable either. www.frogstandrecords.com
DEATH IN THE PARK- S/T EP- END SOUNDS- % songs of pretty much by-the-book emo from this quartet outta Alabama. Not my bag but they do it well, especially on opening cut “Pitifully Exposed.” www.endsounds.com
DESTROY NATE ALLEN- PERFECT RECIPE FOR A SMILE/ DON’T LET THIS SMILE FOOL YOU- SELF RELEASED- 2 records one one cd from this Portland punk with heart. On the first record he recorded w/ his wife Tess while the 2nd one (songs 11-20) were just Nate. This is goofy folk-punk with strummy acoustic guitar and song titles like “White Flag”, “I Am Alive”, “Phil Collins” (in which he rhymes it with Henry Rollins) and “How to Make a Girl Cry.” The vocals were occasionally annoying but I’ll be he./they are a hoot live. www.destroynateallen.com
DRIFTING IN SILENCE- FACE WITHIN- LABILE- Dark, electro pop from the mind of Chicagoan Derrick Stembridge. Not my bag at all and on one song he evens does that distort voice thing like Styx did (remember (“Mr Roboto”?). Not a good place to be IMHO. www.labilerecords.com
EASTER MONKEYS- SPLENDOR OF SORROR- SMOG VEIL- Early 80’s Cleveland post-punk led by Jim Jones (not the reverend) who had been previously in the Electric Eels and The Styrenes. This is a reissue that has 15 songs which include as some live and rehearsal stuff as well as a dvd (that admittedly I have not watched). The band was confrontational and aggressive just like a lot of those early Cleveland bands were. www.smogveil.com
ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN- THE FOUNTAIN- OCEAN RAIN- Had this record been the band’s first release you might be doing cartwheels but as a band who released some of the 80’s best music this is merely a solid record. Most of the edge is gone but we’re still left with a batch of decent songs, some very good. Opener “Think I Need it Too” is one of those as is the melodic, bouncy “Proxy.” Still, if you’re a fan I’d say you’ll want to hear it. www.bunnymen.com
THE FABULOUS POODLES- MIRROR STARS/THINK PINK- AMERICAN BEAT- These London quirky posters always seemed to weird to be appreciated by the masses but not quite weird enough to be taken in by the new wave crowd so the power pop crowd seemed to embrace therm. This is their first (only) 2 records on one cd as they broke up in 1979. You might remember their cover of “Roll Your Own”, there’ that one on here and 20 other tunes. My only complaint I that I wish the booklet had more photos/liners. www.ccmusic.com
FOREIGN CINEMA- NON-SYNCHRONOUS SOUND- PARALLAX SOUNDS- 4 songs of dark, brooding, noir-ish pop that’s both spacey and dubby. Not my kinda stuff . WWW.PARALLAXSOUNDS.COM
FUN- AIM AND IGNITE- NETTWERK- Way ambitious trio led by Nate Ruess who was in The Format. Along with his bandmates and a cast of thousands (including produced Steven McDonald and contributor Roger Manning) the record has more swoops than a bald eagle. Taking cues from equal parts Queen, The Beatles and E.L.O. The record I all over the place, giddy and the band, thankfully, doesn’t take it all too seriously (how could you with a name like Fun?). One listen to “Benson Hedges” will push you to one side of the fence or the other. www.nettwerk,com
GIRL LOVES DISTORTION- YOU BETTER RUN, YOUR HIGHNESS- EXETE- Wash, DC trio full-length produced by Devin Ocampo and on about half the tunes they reminded me a bit of Versus with a tense, wiry, driving sound that was good. Later on the toss in some annoying keyboards and mess it all up. Still at least half of this was well worth hearing. www.girllovesdistortion.com
HIMALAYA- S/T- SELF RELEASED- 9 tunes of spaced out , ragged glory from these obvious Pink Floyd fans. You might also hear some B.J.M. antics and that’s fine too. You’ll need some time and space and probably a comfortable hammock too. Start with “31” and blast off. www.himalayamusic.com
JEFF THE BROTHERHOOD- HEAVY DAYS- INFINITY CAT- These 9 songs veer between heavy, stoner rock and speedier, punk gunk with song titles like “Heavy Krishna”, “Bone Jam”, “Heavy Damage”, etc. I like the latter tunes but overall this was just ok. www.infinitycat.com
THE KING KHAN & BBQ SHOW- INVISIBLE GIRL- IN THE RED- Record #3 shows these two nutjobs (and ex-Spaceshits members) still got it. They still sound like a classic hoedown of doo wop, soul, blues and garage. Not as special as that wonderful debut from a few years back but at last as good as #2 (WHAT’S FOR DINNER) and they prove it’s ok to be sensitive. www.intheredrecords.com
MEMPHIS 59- RAGGED BUT RIGHT- SELF RELEASED- You might think this roots rock trio hails from Memphis but they actually called Arlington, VA home but hey, VA IS the south so the twang in both the voice (from guitarist/vocalist Scott Kurt) and instruments is real. Plus these guys go the songs to back it up. Strong cuts like opener, “Me Myself and Eyes”, the punchy “Black & White TV” and the mid-tempo, “Girl at the End of the Bar” show they got the goods. For fans of the Old 97’s and the Jayhawks. www.memphis59.com
THE JEFF MICHAEL BAND- THE OTHER SIDE- SELF RELEASED- Tom Petty-esque pop from this LA transplant (originally from NY). These 5 songs had some decent hooks and plenty o’ twang. MY pick to click here was “Let Her Go.” www.myspace.com/jeffmichael78
AMY MILLAN- MASTERS OF THE BURIAL- ARTS & CRAFTS- Stars member Amy returns with her 2nd solo record after the terrific debut, HONEY FROM THE TOMBS. Don’t like this one as much but there is still some fine material on here like the gorgeous opener “”Bruised Ghosts” and the warm “Old Perfume” an she also does a nice cover of a Richard Hawley tune, “Run for Me.” Her voice still sounds nice and raspy and the strings are lovely, I just didn’t like the songs on here quite as much. www.arts-crafts.ca
THE MOST SERENE REPUIBLIC- ..AND THE EVER EXPANDING UNIVERSE- ARTS & CRAFTS- Way ambitious, grandiose pop music form this Toronto collective (and not one member of Broken Social Scene is in the lineup if you can believe). Too talented to be so unknown. www.arts-crafts.ca
MOTHER HIPS- PACIFIC DUST- CAMERA- Nearly 2 decades on this Bay Area mainstay is still churning out sturdy records. They were expected to blow up but that never happened but the band seems happy with their place in life and the music scene. The stuff is usually described as roots rock and you’ll hear everything from alt country to folky pop (“Jess Oxox”) to some jam band gunk to what sounds like a Skynyrd tribute (“Third Floor Story”). Nothing ion PACIFIC DUST is mind-blowing but after hearing it you’ll be glad they released it. www.camerarecords.com
NEVERWONDER- LET IT OUT- SELF RELEASED-- This L.A. band features former American Idol vocalist Megan Bobo (I don’t watch the show, I just read that) and the band specializes in that modern rock sound which is not my thing at all. Bobo reminded me a bit of Tina Turner mixed with Janis Joplin and is definitely the best part of the band. They’ll probably be huge. www.neverwonder.com
PICASTRO- BECOME SECRET- MONOTREME- Odd glacially-paced gunk from this Toronto band (originally on the Pehr label) with female vocals though you could swear the band is an instrumental at first listen. Didn’t love it but my curiousity is piqued and it is interesting nonetheless. www.monotremerecords.com
RESEARCH TURTLES- S/T- SELF RELEASED- Louisiana brothers Jud and Joe Norman (Jud writes the tunes) and two other friends (Logan and Blake) offer up 11 tunes of melodic, crunchy pop. They’ve got their chops down and have an ear for a cool melody too as evidenced on strong cuts like “Let’s Get Carried Away”, “Mission” and the super poppy “Tomorrow.” Look out for these guys. www.researtchturtles.com
D. ROGERS- SPARKS ON THE TARMAC- POP BOOMERANG- A bit of a folk turn for the normally power-pop minded Pop Boomerang label. This Aussie dude writes some decent tunes here. Nothing mindblowing but solid nonetheless. My fave was “Knocked Down the House” (probably the most upbeat tunes on the record). www.popboomerang.com
THE SHAKY HANDS- LET IT DIE- KILL ROCK STARS- Portland bunch who get rave about in the papers here and I hear a decent band but not the monsters the Portland Mercury would have you believe. Opening title track kicks hard but most of this fails to show anything other than a band who can ape its influences but not much more. www.killrockstars.com
WILL STRATTON- NO WONDER- STUNNNG MODELS ON DISPLAY- Gorgeous acoustic piano pop from a true talent. Get this! www.stunningmodelsondisplay.com
TRULS & THE TREES- AILANTHUS- METRONOMICON AUDIO- Norwegian dude Truls Heggero who is also in Lukestar. This is sweet indie pop with high-pitched vocals (that can occasionally get annoying) but more often than not are charming and lots of cool melodies. www.metronomiconaudio.net
WETDOG- FRAUHAUS- CAPTURED TRACKS- All female UK trio who slice and dice their way through 14 tunes in less than the time it takes to watch a SEINFELD rerun. If you have heard The Raincoats before then this won’t be a huge surprise: rumbly bass, obedient rhythms and vocals that sound alternately demanding and freaked out. What? www.capturedtracks.com
WINTER GLOVES- ABOUT GIRL- PAPER BAG- Dancy guitar pop from this Montreal-based band. This stuff was all the rage a few years ago (Bloc Party, etc.) and these guys are certainly not the worst of the bunch. Not bad with a few excellent songs (like “Let me Drive”).
MARCH 2010
A PLACE TO BURY STRANGER- EXPLODING HEAD- MUTE- Brooklyn, trio on record #2 and these ex-Skywave folks certainly know how to bring the noise. Never heard their debut but heard it was even noisier but a bit of sheen on these kind of songs isn’t a bad thing. Think MBV meets New Order as the band steamrolls down the block crushing everything in its path. Just get the hell out of the way, please. www.mute.com
ANJULIE- S/T- HEAR MUSIC- A Guyanese singer from Toronto and I have no reference points for this kind of music ‘cept maybe Nelly Furtado as her dancey soul pop reminds me a bit of Nelly. Allmusic also mentions Santigold, Laura Nyro, Beyonce and Regina Spektor but I’ve only listened to two of those women (guess which ones). www.anmjuliemusic.com
ANVIL- THIS IS THIRTEEN- VH1 CLASSIC- Yup, sounds like metal (a genre I have never been a fan of) . Had not even heard OF this band before the band-made documentary that came out last year. Referred to as the “real Spinal Tap” these Canadians have been slogging it out with very little mainstream success for nearly 3 decades. Said to be an influence on Metallica and Anthrax Lips (guitar/vocals) and drummer Robb Reiner (ha ha ha ) who, with Glenn Five on bass crank out 14 tunes and ya’ know, this is good stuff. Normally I hated the wanky metal leads but Lips does it with style on here (and doesn’t go so overboard) while Reiner is an animal on drums. Lyrics are occasionally goofy but that’s ok. At this point don’t think these guys will ever become stars but with records like this, they will still have respect. www.vh1classic.com
SETH AUGUSTUS- TO THE POURING RAIN- PORTO FRANCO- Coarse, grizzled, tweaked blues in the Tom Waits vein but they mix in some Beefheart-ian weirdness too just to keep you on your toes (as if sounding like Mr. Waits wasn’t weird enough) . Not my thing but he does it very well. www.sethaugustus.com
THE BIG PINK- A BRIEF HISTORY OF LOVE- 4AD- Trippy UK spaceheads who recall the golden age of shoegaze from the late 80’s when bands like Chapterhouse and Catherine Wheel were turning heads left and right. Who knows, maybe they’ll restart the genre as this isn’t a band start. www.4ad.com
BLACK TAPE FOR A BLUE GIRL- 10 NEUROTICS- PROJEKT- This project, started by the label founder Sam Rosenthal, has been going on for nearly three decades and umpteen million records (or so irt seems). This collection seems a bit waltzy from, the Waits-esque opener “Sailor Boy’ to the female sung “Inch Worm” which could be a showtune for something. There is a good mix of styles and Rosenthal never lets his art rock ambitions get too far away (and the Richard Kern-esque photos inside the cd booklet ware tantalizing as well). www.projekt.com
BROADWAY CALLS- GOOD VIEWS, BAD NEWS- SIDE ONE DUMMY- Rainier, Oregon (of all places) bunch who hired Mr. All/Descendent Bill Stevenson to produce here and it’s well-produced but not overly slick and the songwriting is good. The vocals are way out front in the mix and the guitars sound loud and clear. Well done. www.sideonedummy.com
BROWN BIRD- THE DEVIL DANCING- PEAPOD- This Portland, ME via Seattle cat, David Lamb, has been as it for a few years now and this is record #4 (2nd for the Peapod label) and his brand of spooky, folky blues has turned more than a few heads. Vocally he sounds a bit like the gravel of Tom Waits while the music sounds broken and busted in the best way possible (he has a fine cast of players on here). Give both “Down to the River” and “Much and Mire” listens and go from there. www.peapodrecordings.com
THE CINEMATICS- LOVE AND TERROR- THE ORCHARD- Glaswegians who apparently get compared to The Editors quite a bit (and are sick of it). I hear a bit of that as well as some Echo & the Bunnymen and some Cure too. Most of the songs are sweeping and grand and they don’t forget the hooks either, which is always nice. Give the superb “New Mexico” a listen. www.myspace.com/thecinematics
THE CREEPY CREEPS- FINK ABOUT IT!- DIONYSUS- San Diego surf/garage punk who probably wear out organs quicker than I go through underwear (tmi?). This wasn’t bad but I’ll bet live is where this band needs to be experienced. Best song title; “Shanghai Supplies.” www.dionysusrecords.com
DARK MEAT- TRUCE OPIUM- EMERGENCY UMBRELLA- Athens, GA group of hundreds led by erstwhile nutjob Jim McHugh. Actually I think there are like 10 people in the band but this sophomore effort is just as scattered and gonzo as their 2006 debut. 2 of the 8 songs here top the 10 minute mark and it’s all a cacophonous blast of horns, percussion and yelps (oh, guitars too). A few of these tunes might drive you to drink but I’ll bet live they’re a fuggin’ hoot. www.myspace.com/darkmeat
STEVEN DEAL- RADIO TWELVE- SEDITIONARY KITTEN- For those of you who remember 90;’s power poster Chopper (Big Deal Records) well, this this guy Mr. Deal is one half of that duo. Seems he had been in hiding for a number of years (after the demise of his post Chopper band, The Absolute Zeroes) but here he returns with 12 new tracks of hard(er) hitting pop than the acoustic jangle that was most of Chopper. Well, to be honest there is a nice mix of styles on this from Chopper jangle to pop that has more of the power in it. Strong songwriting and a welcome return to say the least. www.seditionarykitten.com
DELETED WAVEFORM GATHERINGS- GHOST, SHE SAID- RAINBOW QUARTZ- Norwegian 5-some who , like a lot of the bands on the R.Q. label worship at the church of the B;’s (Beatles, Big Star, Byrds, etc.) but on this, their 3rd record they seem to be going for the gold a bit more. In other words, rocking out but GHOST, HE SAID still has some sublime pop moments on it like the jangly “Miss Missing You” and the punchy “Why I’m Falling”, it just has fewer than the previous records. Still, not a bad effort here. www.rainbowquartz.com
THE DEPRECIATION GUILD- IN HER GENTLE JAWS- KANINE- This is Kurt Feldman’s, drummer for Pains of Being Pure at Heart, side project. As busy as that band has been it’s surprising to see he has a side project but here it is and it’s really good, too. This was originally self-released in 2007 but the Kanine label picked it up and have remastered and reissued it. These 10 songs take a heavy UK dreampop influence of bands like MBV, The Field Mice and some Jesus and Mary Chain too and make good use of the effects. Nop top tier ryet but close. www.inhergentlejaws.com
DESERTERS PALE MORNING- POP BOOMERANG- Melbourne songwriter Luke Thomas , who plays in a few others bands (The Pictures, The Ronson Hangup, etc.) and is a busy enough guy but here felt he needed to squeeze in another project. On PALE MORNING he grabbed some members of The Wellingtons and on these 9 songs cranks out nice, acoustic-flavored pop in the vein of DAGGER favoriteMojave 3. The guy has a real velvety smooth voice and knows his way around a song, dropping in plenty of hooks and occasional left turns. Check out the anthemic “Take It as it Comes” or the swoony title track for further proof. I hope this side project becomes a full-time concern. www.popboomerang.com
DIVISION DAY –VISITATION- DANGERBIRD- Sounds to me like generic post punk with beats , washes of keyboards, pretentious vocals and very mediocre songwriting. With this Santa Cruz, CA band trust me, you’re not missing much. www.dangerbirdrecords.com
ELLSWORTH- BRIGHT RED ROAD- SELF RELEASED- This BKLNY folkster has apparently been writing and recording music since the 70’s and on this, his 2nd solo record, he has a large cast of characters helping out (including a sousaphone player). Some of it is hooky and driving (“Saxophone”, “One More Time” ) while other was goofy and a bit annoying (title track, “These Park New Orleans”), etc.) but heck, art least the guy has a sense of humor and doesn’t take himself too seriously. Not a bad listen, www.ellsworthsongs.com
EL PERRO DEL MAR- LOVE IS NOT POP- THE CONTROL GROUP- Swede Sarah Assbring returns with her 3rd full-length. This time it’s she and producer rRasmus Hagg (from Swedish band Studio) and this record still features her lovelorn vocals but this time a bit of pop sheen glides across the record. Don’t get me wrong, she still soaks these 10 songs (which includes 3 bonus tracks) in her unique heartbreaking melancholy but something about these tunes sounds more, I don’t know, maybe up to date. She uses reverb and echo to her advantage and she has, once again, created another highly listenable record. www.elperrodelmar.com
FOR AGAINST- NEVER BEEN- WORDS ON MUSIC- This trio, who have been at it for over 2 decades, hail from, of all places, Nebraska. The band has a dark, post-punk sound (a bit of Joy Division in there as well as a big 4AD influence) ) but mix it with dream pop melodies and vocalist Jeffrey Running’s moody vocals. This isn’t their strongest record as I found a few of the songs dull but overall it’s solid from a band that had defined consistency. www.words-on-music.com
LEIGH GREGORY- 1973- VOLLWERT- Thought this was a release form 1973 (retro photo on the cover) but this is the guy who was in Mellow Drunk (who I never did hear, never heard Gallon Drunk either) doing 80’s style pop rock , a bit in the vein of Robyn Hitchcock. Real nice. www.leighgregory.com
HUAK- SECRET TREES ep- PEAPOD- 6 tunes by this Portland, Maine bunch who go for the jugular with an angular, hard- hitting post-punk sound Think equal parts Mission of Burma mixed with Q and Not U and a dash of Minutemen funkyness too. I like the low-end rumble and cacophony of “Stats and Demographics” the best of the bunch. 5 songs. www.peapodrecordings.com
RAY WYLIE HUBBARD- A. ENLIGHTENMENT, B. ENDARKENMENT, (HINT: THERE IS NO C)- BORDELLO- Curiously titled disc from this old Texan and he’s not trying to sound old, this cat was born in 1946 and hung with the likes of Jerry Jeff Walker and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott (and probably David Allen Coe too). Right in between Mississippi Delta Blues and honky tonk, this cat is the real thing. Drive by Truckers fans take note. www.thirtytigers.com
KANDI CODED- FELL FOR THE GIFT- VOLCOM- Riff rawk from Seattle and produced by, who else, Jack Endino (who I believe it also in the band). The songs are heavy and fairly simple and honestly, nothing on here yanked my chain at all (those guitar leads were driving me nuts) . www.volcoment.com
THE KING OF ROCKSPRINGS- THE MILKMAN VS. THE POSTMAN PROBLEM: A COMEDY IN 5 PARTS- SELF RELEASED- 5 tunes in just under 17 minutes from NYC via Georgia guy Scott Sosebee (Japancakes, Little Red Rocket, etc.). Opener “The Perfect Guy” is pure circus jam with fast lyrics and a hyperactive bounce to it while “Kicking Dogs/ Throwing Phones” is sad and maudlin piano tune. The other 3 tunes are a mix of the two styles (wht nmy fave being the acoustic “Springtime for newe Yorkers”). Sosebee is searchin’….., let’s hope he finds whatever it is he is looking for. www.thekingofrocksprings.com
KITES WITH LIGHTS- THE WEIGHT OF YOUR HEART- 24 HOUR SERVICE STATION- This one guy (Jonah Cordy) offering up 5 songs of moody, 80’s synth pop ala OMD. The songs are good and it’s all easily likeable stuff. www.24hourservicestation.com
KNOCK ‘EM ALIVE- CONEY ISLAND RIDE- SELF RELEASED- Interesting mix of pop styles on here form a NYC guy named Johnny Gruber. Was expecting more straight up power pop but there are some interesting keyboard flourishes on here and some beats too but still, most of this is for fans of Cheap Trick and the like. My pick to click here is “Some Summer.” www.knockemaliveband.com
ELAINE LACHICA- I THINK I CAN SEE THE OCEAN- STUNNING MODELS ON DISPLAY- Oddball NYC singer songwriter who has gotten some comparisons to both Regina Spektor and St Vincent. She mixes her ethereal (classically trained) vocals with intricate arangements (check out “Tumbleweed”) but doesn’t forget the songs. A few dull moments here and there (“April Train”, etc.) but overall pretty strong. www.stunningmodelsondisplay.com
BRIAN LARSEN- BREAKING- PROTOCOL- 23 year old Baltimo resident who has apparently been recording since he was 11. This breezy acoustic based rock and I liked about half the tunes on here. A few of the tunes were a bit too earnest for my liking but opening cut “Stay or Break” was excellent as was the jangly “Running out of Breath.” www.breakingbrianlarsen.com
AUSTIN LUCAS- SOMEBODY LOVES YOU- SUBURBAN HOME- Between this and the Chad Price record it seems that the normally punk minded Suburban Home Records is getting folkier. This Texas kid is the son of Bob Lucas and it’s folky country stuff with some elements of bluegrass. Admittedly, I’m not too keen on Austin’s voice but the guy can write a tune and writes with passion. Well worth checking out. www.suburbanhomerecords.com
THE MAN FROM ANOTHER PLACE- THE LONELIEST COWBOY ep- SELF RELEASED- Only 5 (instrumental) tunes here and I believe it is the work of one guy (known only as Dan) but it’s a promising beginning (if it is indeed a beginning). Very reminiscent of the High Llamas so no surprise that Sean O’Hagen had kinds words for the record on the sticker on the front of the cd (as did Edwyn Collins). Nice stuff. www.themanfromanotherplace.com
MEAN JEANS- ARE YOU SERIOUS?- DIRTNAP- Portland trio who add a nice little kick to the shorts of a genre (pop punk) that usually sounds generic but not when put in the hands of a band like this who know their history. I hear elements of both the Ramones as well as label mates The Marked Men. You’ve heard this before but this is definitely a cut above. www.dirtnaprecs.com
MORGAN HERITAGE- THE JOURNEY THUS FAR- VP- This 2 disc set (one cd/ one dvd) contains 20 songs on the disc and this acts as sort of a greatest hits package since the band, around since the early 90’s, has quite an extensive catalog. The band itself is made up of 5 or 6 of Denroy Morgan’s 29 kids (that was no typo, ….29 offspring). This is feel-good reggae with some r & b tossed in. Not my bag but reggae lovers will rejoice here.
MORNING BELL- SINCERELY, SEVERELY, ORANGE- Florida brothers Travis and Eric Atria (along with Eric’s wife and a drummer named Chris Hillman…no, not THAT one) come together on record #4 and bring some seriously good tunes. Hell, these guy might even be part jam band, I dunno but the songs are too good to ignore and that drummer Hillman pulls it all in. An occasional Mayfield-esquee falsetto will bring some fist –pumps too. www.orangerecordsgainesville.com
OM- GOD IS GOOD- DRAG CITY- The rhythm section of Sleep continue on but this time offer only 4 tunes (opener ”Thebes” is nearly 10 minutes long tho and tune #2, “Meditations is the Practice of Death is nearly 7 minutes) . No more metal for these dude, this is more like short-circuited drone with occasional chants. Not my bag but someone’s. www.dragcity.com
JACK PENATE- EVERYTHING IS NEW- XL- Posh Londoner doing excellent dance pop here. Actually just calling these 9 songs dance pop is sort of a lazy description as he adds some ska, northern soul, and indie pop here and does it all well. One listen to the opener “Pull My Heart Away” will give you an indication if you like this or not. I do. www.xl-recordings.com
PENGUIN PARTY- SEE THRU SONGS- SITTING TARGET- Take my advice and skip the first song. It’s not good and not indicative of how the record the record sounds. The band is led by UK songsmith, David Milligan (from the band Arco) and you’ll hear some beats, oddball keyboards but Milligan is at his best doing 80’s style pop as the guy knows his way around a tune (lie the excellent “Here be the Chorus”). www.sittingtarget.net
POCKETBOOKS- FLIGHT PATHS- HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE LOVED- Had not previously heard of this UK based indie pop band but being on the HDIFTBL label (also home to Butcher Boy) i had a feeling ti was going to be good and it is. I was initially reminded of Heavenly with their sprightly pop tunes plus Emma’s vocals remind me a bit of Amelia Fletcher too. “Footsteps” is a sweet opener to get things going while “Fleeting Moments” is a bit zippier with some nice piano and “Camera Angles” , sung by a male, is more Belle & Sebastian influenced but just as solid (as is “Cross the Line” which brings in horns). “Sweetness and Light” is another winner and fro those who long for the late 90’s golden days of indie pop ,well, Pocketbooks is bring back the magic. www.howdoesitfeel.co.uk
CHAD PRICE- SWEET SMILE FACE- SUBURBAN HOME- In which the former All vocalist records, on his solo debut, an album of 10 acoustic songs. It’s actually better than it sounds. The guy has a good voice and while it is too earnest at times it’s not cheesy.
PROUD SIMON- ANCHORD AWEIGH- SELF RELEASED- This Brooklyn, NY band, led by songwriter Brian Keenan, impressed on their 2008 sophomore release (NIGHT OF CRIMINALS) and this 5-song stop gap ep isn’t bad but at times a bit too breezy and well, regular sounding, with little to differentiate it from packs of other bands doing the same thing. The songwriting is still pretty good and the title track and jangly “Morning Paper” were both standout. Will still keep my ear on what they’ re doing and remain cautiously optimistic. www.myspace.com/proudsimon
HOPE SANDOVAL & THE WARM INVENTIONS- THROUGH THE DEVIL SOFTLY- NETTWERK- Ex-Mazzy Star vocalist Hope is still among us, it just took her nearly a decade for a follow up to 2001’s BAVARIAN FRUIT BREAD. This time she is still joined by MBV’s Colm O’Ciosoig and musically, well, not much has changed as they are still doing the slo-mo folly dream pop kinda stuff with Hope’s waifish vocals. Opener “Blanchard’ sets the tone for the entire record and the songwriting here is just as good as the debut, maybe even a bit better and perfect for those 2 AM drives to no where. www.nettwerk.com
SHELLSHAG- RUMORS IN DISGUISE- DON GIOVANNI- BKNY duo of Johnny Shell and Jen Shag have apparently been all over the scene, in numerous bands while in San Fran, running an art space in the 90’s and generally wreaking havoc wherever they went. Here they are with record #2 and these 15 tunes are short n’ sweet with hooky guitar riffs and songs that sound like instant classics the first time you hear them (or that feeling that you have heard them before). When thy harmonize it’s nearly perfect (check out “Mean That Much to Me”). www.dongiovannirecords.com
THE SIMPLE PAGES- TO AFFINITY & BEYOND- SELF RELEASED- Riffy, mid-tempo pop rock that was ok, but nothing special really. A few decent hooks here and there.
SINGING BRIDGES- THREE TRAINS- SKIPPING STONES- 5 more tunes of noisy yet melodic indie poop from Will and Christine of the Skipping Stones label. They had a previous ep that I really enjoyed and these songs are even more fully realized. My pick to click on here is “Crazy Street.” www.skippingstonesrecords.com
SNOWBYRD- DIOSDADO- SAUSTEX- Another band from Spurs country (see Sons of Hercules below) with, I believe, their sophomore effort here. The record, however, is cloaked in sadness as drummer Manny Castillo died while the band was recording the record so half the tracks are from those session while the other are older tracks (also with him on drums). The band’s sound and style are hard to pin down as they mix several style into their own but I heard Byrds-y jangle as well as elements of prog, garage rock and even some country too. It’s a bit uneven but the good tracks here are really good (check out the gorgeous “Ozona”). Should they decide to continue, there’s a ton of promise here. www.saustexmedia.com
THE SONS OF HERCULES- A DIFFERENT KIND OF UGLY- SAUSTEX- While I have heard their name over the years I have never before checked out this San Antonio, TX institution who have been plugging away for 2 decades without a hint of mainstream success (that’s not what they’re lookin’ for anyway). The 12 songs that make up A DIFFERENT KIDN OF UIGLY don’t vary too much in style but this band is nothing if not consistent. They take elements of The Stooges and the Stones and grind out mid-tempo nuggets with snotty appeal and with vocalist Frank Puglise, a front man who would probably spit in your face, pour your beer on your head and then buy you another one. In addition to the 9 originals here they also had the good sense on to cover The Saint’s (“Misunderstood”), Lazy Cowgirls “Rock of Gibraltar”) and the Mystery Dates (“Easy Action”). Go! www.saustexmedia.com
SOUTH CHINA- WASHINGTONS- PEAPOD- Essentially the work on a married couple, Jeremy and Jerusha Robinson (though there are a lot of other musicians on here, including their friend David Lamb of Brown Bird). South China create music that is sparse, at times experimental and occasionally eerie. When Jerusha sings it’s a bit more haunting and the clashing of cello, glock, keys and other instruments create a musical backdrop that is complex yet simple, warm yet lonely. www.peapodrecordings.com
STEREOPHONIC SPACE SOUND UINLIMITED- THE SPOOKY SESSIONS- DIONYSUS-Swiss instrumental retro duo (Ernest Maeschi and Karen Simpson) with lp #6 (I believe) who do everything from space age bachelor pad type chill music to groovy 60’s mashups to surf to out and out garage rock. They pull out all of the stop including the kitchen sink on this one: sitars, moogs, bongos, homemade electronic gunk and everything in between and the whole thing is instantly likeable with groovy jams and with song titles like “Sitar Jerk”, “Do the Lurk Around” and :”Chicken Skin” can these guys name songs or what? www.dionysusrecords.com
THE STRANGE BOYS- AND GIRLS CLUB- IN THE RED- Austin via Dallas cats who do an r & b influenced sort of garage rock that sounds like a Dylan clone on vocals. I don’t want to say leader Ryan Sambol is aping Mr. Dylan I just think that when he opens his mouth that is what comes out. The guitars sound pretty great, like mid-60’s Brit. Invasion bands just waiting for their shot. At times like The Kinks and others times like 80’s band the Gibson Bros. Great song titles too (“Woe is You and Me”, “No Way for a Slave to Behave”, “Should have Shot Paul”, etc.). www.intheredrecords.com
TIN HUEY- BEFORE OBSCURITY: THE BUSHFLOW TAPES- SMOG VEIL- Oddball 70’s stuff outta , where else, Cleveland, Ohio where bands like Devo and Pere Ubu ruled the earth. This stuff is all over the map but mostly sorta geeky new wave with Ralph Carney’s honking sax. www.smogveil.com
TORO Y MOI- CAUSERS OF THIS- CARPARK- This band is actually is the work of one, Chaz Bundick. A South Carolina native who records alone and has whippeed up something fairly unique. Here it’s got synthesizers/keys, guitars and all sounds a bit hazy and occasionally sounds as if it was recorded underwater but there’s some undeniable hooks to be found and even if you don’t like bands like Animal Collective or Grizzly Bear (who this reminded me a bit of) some of the hooks are too gooey for words. Not my favorite genre (whatever that might be) but I’ll keep listening. www.carparkrecords.com
GEORGE USHER- YOURS AND NOT YOURS- PARASOL- Hard to believe that this guy was in both The Bongos and Beat Rodeo but it’s true as he has been making music in the Big Apple for over three decades. ON this, his 5th solo record he refines his chamber pop tunes with gorgeous string arrangements and impressive songs. He earned his keep a long time ago. www.parasol.com
VAMPIRE WEEKEND- CONTRA- XL- Not a bad follow up to their terrific debut record form a few years back but this doesn’t have the super memorable songs that record had. They’re still doin’ the Paul Simon thing, in fact, even more so now.
VIVIAN GIRLS- EVERYTHIGN GOES WRONG- IN THE RED- This time the BKNY trio offers up 13 songs and the song lengths even go towards the 5-minute mark this time. It’s basically the same as the first record only the songs aren’t quite as good. If you don’t know the influences it’s C86, girl groups and punk rot (Ramones , etc.). It’s still good but lacks the charm (and hooks) of the debut. www.intheredrecords.com
STELLAN WAHLSTROM DRIFT BAND- ACROSS THE ROOM- BELPID- Gentle folky tunes with piano, violin and plenty of acoustic guitars. This is from the same guy who used to be in Crypt Records garage band The Wylde Mammoths! I have to admit I’m a sucker for heartfelt tunes like these as long as the songwriting is good and it is played with passion, like these songs are. www.belpid.com
WE ARE WOLVES- INVISIBLE VIOLENCE- DARE TO CARE- This Canadian trio has been making quite a name for itself with their hi-energy, electro shouty, dance punk (think Suicide meets Joy Division but with more commercial appeal). I could normally take or leave the dance punk movement but these guys can actually write pretty good songs and have an edge to them as well. The driving “Reaching for the Sky” and the whirring “Dreams” are my two picks to click here but there’s more to it than just those tunes. www.daretocarerecords.com
ALLISON WEISS- WAS RIGHT ALL ALONG- SELF RELEASED- Earnest, passionate, occasionally goofy University of GA student who is a “musician by night” who can really write songs too. Not sure how many record she has out but at least two and not sure why I was expecting this to be bad but I’m glad it’s not. Go to her myspace site and listen to “Fingers Crossed’ and “From You to Me” and you’ll (possibly) be hooked. www.allisonw.com
THE XX- XX- YOUNG TURKS- This made most major magazines top 10 of 2009 lists but when I listened I heard some tired old beats and detached singing. Sure, there is an occasional nice hook but I’m still waiting for the sky to open up and it hasn’t happened yet.
YELLOW FEVER- S/T- WORLD WIDE- Trio from Austin with 2 gals and one guy and one gal, Jennifer Moore, is also in Voxtrot and Vivian Girls Cassie Ramone did (a rat and a cat) the artwork. Unlike this Vivs, this is more spare and takes more of a Rough Trade (think Young Marble Giants) take on things. Plunky and loping, just the way I like it. www.myspace.com/yellerfever
YOUNG FRESH FELLOWS- I THINK IT IS- YEP ROC- As if Scott McCaughey isn’t busy enough with the Minus 5 (and his work with R.E.M.) he unleashes his nearly 3-decade old band with a new record here. It’s their first since 2001 and produced by Robyn Hitchcock, this record does what all good rock records do (specifically any band with McCaughey in it) is shows a true spirit of rock and roll with 13 fun , nothing-fancy-here tunes with lots of guitar grit and good times. Grab the cooler. www.yeproc.com
V/A- CHRISTMAS SPECIAL- SERIES TWO- The tireless Chros from, Series Two continues on with his cdr and this is, as the title implies, Christmas tunes from many of the bands in his stable. You have stellar cuts from bands like Seaside Stars (“Santa Soon”), Later (“An Old Excuse”), Betsy & a Ukulele (“I thought I’d write you a Christmas Song”), The Legendary Ten Seconds (“Sitting in this Trench:”) and plenty more. www.indiepages.com/seriestwo
V/A- STRICTLY THE BEST/ VOL. 41- VIP- Pretty lame reggae comp,. and the only person I had heard of on here was Beenie Man but some other names include Mr. Vegas, Laden, Munga, Mavado, Busy Signal, etc. Not a fan of the genre anyway but this really blew.
KIDD OBLIVION tells you the truth…(written on prozac & bourbon)
COBRA VERDE – HAVEN’T SLEPT ALL YEAR – SCAT – New slab from all but forgotten, ex GBV flunkies that sounds like KISS playing indie-rock. Except when it sounds like low budget Supersuckers…
JOHN DOE & THE SADIES – COUNTRY CLUB – YEP ROC – A drunken promise from Doe to the Sadies in a Toronto bar turns into the best thing he’s released since he was in X. About a 70-30 mix of cry-in-yr-beer laments to shuffling rave-ups, with plenty o’ pedal steel to go ‘round. Sho-nuff.
WAYNE HANCOCK – VIPER OF MELODY – BLOODSHOT – Will his streak ever be broken? Wayne “the Train” continues his string of catchy, authentic, well written country honks and proves to be Bloodshot’s main man and workhorse. Great album title too! Stand-up as usual.
HEARTLESS BASTARDS – THE MOUNTAIN – FAT POSSUM – I wasn’t crazy about the first 2 Bastards records, but this one definitely grabbed me. Erika Wennerstrom’s songs are a bit alt country and a bit garage-rock and she has a voice well suited to both. I actually like the slower jams on this better than the rockers for a change…
HORNET LEG – RIBBON OF FEAR – K – Hornet Leg present a great ramshackle, basement indie-rock record that is right at home on K. The songs stagger fromSiltbreeze / In The Red romps to clumbsy nerd-rock a la Joaquina, Dieselhed or the Dead Milkmen. The deadpan Who cover is hilarious as well.
THE INEVITABLE BACKLASH – MY TWO BROOKES – HEGEMONY – Name’s too long – strike 1. They’re from LA – strike 2. Wah-wah pedal – strike 3. Adios Backwash. I mean, Backlash...
JACK O & THE TEARJERKS – THE DISCO OUTLAW – GONER – Normally that name and the awful cover shot would’ve caused me to throw this directly in the trash, BUT it’s on Goner so I listened first. Glad I did, ‘cause this is a nice, sleazy slice of memphis country rock. Great guitar tones and vocals throughout and the production is just dirty enough. Cool man.
KID CONGO & THE MONKEYBIRDS – DRACULA BOOTS – IN THE RED – An awesome dose of slinky garage soul laid down by longtime NYC stalwart Kid Congo. Equal parts Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Andre Williams and Iggy Pop served over scratchy / sultry R&B. King Khan owes Kid Congo a huge debt of gratitude.
KNIFE THE SYMPHONY – CRAWLER – PHRATRY – This is a nice blast of 3 pc. indie-rock from Cinnci that reminded me a lot of early 90’s Dischord and Amphetemine Reptile bands, as well as folks like Babes in Toyland and 6 Finger Satellite. Lots of youthful energy and yelling to be had herein.
LIFE AND TIMES – TRAGIC BOOGIE – ARENA ROCK – Nice cover art on this terribly named album by L&T who manage to combine old-school shoegazing and buried, dreamy vocals with amped up drumbeats and howling guitars. Basically, the fast ones are good (and rival bands like Averkiou), while the slow ones are kinda duds. Almost there.
MAGIK MARKERS – BALF QUARRY – DRAG CITY – This record is Soooo Siltbreeze circa ’93! Then again, it totally fits on DC too. This stuff is damaged, deconstructed sludge mixed with moments of crisp clarity that is cool, interesting and kind of really awesome.
MEAT PUPPETS – SEWN TOGETHER – MEGAFORCE – Man, I was so ready to slag this because I never liked the ‘Puppets, but they come out on this thing sounding like a Supersuckers/Sebadoh combo one minute and an REM /Husker Du combo the next. Totally shot down my plan. I had some good zingers for them too. Guess i’ll have to save them for the next review…
MOTORIK – KLANG! – SELF – This is a pretty standard yet enjoyable Cure / Joy Division rip-off with chick vocals. My two favorite tracks were actually the Wire-y “utopia parkway,” and the decidely Pylon-ish “patent kiss.” Not bad at all really…
BOB MOULD – LIFE AND TIMES – GRANARY – Ah, speak of the Devil… You never know what you’re gonna get with old Moldy Bob, but luckily this record is a lot more like Sugar than “Workbook,” whew! Interestingly, each of the 3 songs on this album with the word “Life” in the title are total pieces of shit. The rest are pretty great though. PS: He’s old.
RED RED MEAT – BUNNY GETS PAID (DELUXE) – SUB POP – I saw these guys a bunch of times in the early – mid 90’s and never gave a fuck about them. Turns out, they were way ahead of me and I should’ve been paying closer attention. This record was totally ahead of it’s time compared to most 1995 indie-rock, and was criminally under-appreciated. It sounds huge, the harmonies soar and the songs are solid as rocks. Sorry about my lacklustre attitude dudes, my bad.
SUPERDRAG – INDUSTRY GIANTS – 30 TIGERS – Over-produced indie-rock made for radio or TV commercials.
THUNDER POWER – LOVE YOURSELF – SLUMBER PARTY – Imagine a happier Cat Power singing over music that’s akin to the Bats, the Zebras and the Lucksmiths with just a pinch of Beat Happening thrown in there for cuteness.
THUNDERS – THE SYMPATHETIC OSCILLATIONS – A SQUARED – Having been to Indianapolis, it’s very hard for me to believe that there could be a decent band from there, but Thunders are making a good case. Straight-up Velvets vibe with touches of the Black Angels, the Kills and the Raveonettes. Quite nice.
UNKNOWN INSTRUCTORS – S/T – SMOG VEIL – Ok, alternative super group starring Mike Watt, George Hurley, Joe Baiza, Dave Thomas and Raymond Pettibon. On paper it sounds great, but it was just a bunch of spoken word / poetry recited over noodling. Sorry dudes.
VARIOUS ARTISTS – A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS GAFFNEY – YEP ROC – With the exception of the Big Sandy/Los Straightjackets track (that’s 1 out of 18!), this record is a predictable, crushing bore.
V/A – A TRIBUTE TO DOUG SAHM – VANGAURD – This comp features many of the same artists as the Chris Gaffney tribute, but is about 85-90% good-to-great. This leads me to believe that Doug Sahm is the better songwriter. Simple math really…
YOUNG FRESH FELLOWS – I THINK THIS IS – YEP ROC – I must be honest with you: I think of all the bands out there that have worn out their fucking welcome, the ‘Fellows are top of the heap. I mean, gray, pear-shaped cornballs that should be playing at the Jersey shore – every one of them. Not to mention that having to call a bunch of 60 year olds ‘young’ and ‘fresh’ totally pisses me off. Here’s where it get interesting though: the fucking record’s actually pretty good – punchy, fun punk-pop. Goddammit. Time to go slug a bottle of Nyquil.
OBLIVION – OVER AND OUT!
FEBRUARY 2010
A CUCKOO- DESTINATION UNKNOWN- LE GRAND MAGISTERY- Leeds, England is the home of A Cuckoo and this is basically a one-man project. Musically this is tough to describe, similar to a male version of el Perro del Mar but even that really isn’t all that accurate. There’s lot of drawn out synth work and affected vocals and again, like the Idle Tigers review (see below), perhaps a bit of el Records influence. He doesn’t cover Missing Persons but he does cover Bob Dylan. Curious. www.magistery.com
BAD VEINS- S/T- DANGERBIRD- A duo from Cincinnati (Benjamin & Sebastian) and all I kept hearing about was their single. “Gold and Warm.” I listened to it and it’s good tune, not the greatest thing since sliced bread but still good. The rest of this record of half grandiose/half dancey pop in the Franz Ferdinand vein. They won’t overtake the Afghan Whigs are Cincy’s best band but ya’ know. www.myspace.com/badveins
THE BEAT RATS- A CELLAR FULL OF RATS!- KOOL KAT- This NYC combo sound like they came straight out Hamburg in 1963 ala the Fab Four, they have the sound that down pat. You’ll also hear elements of mod, garage and surf rock too but the original Liverpudlians are the ones they love. Nothing earth-shattering here but fun. www.koolkatmusik.com
LAURIE BIAGINI- RIDIN’ THE WAVE- SELF RELEASED- Laurie may hail from Canada (Vancouver, BC) but you wouldn’t know it from her sunny tunes. You might think she hailed from Hawthorne, Calif. These 16 songs have a real relaxed Beach Boys/surf pop/sunshine pop feel to them (think Mamas and Papas too) with sticky melodies and Laurie has a nice voice too. A few picks to click were “Two Feet off the Ground” and the title track but really there was plenty to like here. www.myspace.com/lauriebiaginimusic
ALYSE BLACK- HOLD ONTO THIS- SELF RELEASED- Torchy, sultry gal from Austin, TX who unfolds 12 songs into our laps in the Tori Amos vein. It’s not all slo mo stuff though as she does have a rock/pop side. Not my cup tea but definitely someone’s. www.alyseblack.com
CLINT MICHIGAN- HAWTHORNE TO HENNEPIN- KIAM- NYC duo of Clint and Amy and both sing, play guitar and play banjo and together they can write some terrific songs (love when they harmonize together, which is nearly every song). Think of something in between Sufjan Stevens and (occasionally) Elliott Smith. “Blue and Gold” is nearly perfect as is “Alameda.” Discover now! www.myspace.com/kiamrecords
FIVE FINGER SDEATH PUNCH- WAR IS THE ANSWER- PROSPECT PARK- These Mad Max-lookin’ goons are apparently in the same camp (music-wise) as System of a Down and while I do hear some interesting rhythmic variation and a few decent riffs it’s the King Kong vocals that I find laughable.
JOHN FRAZIER & THE 8 YEAR OLDS- BOOGIEMAN- SELF RELEASED- Off-kilter quartet doing oddball gunk that is part no-wave, part surf rock and part Zappa weirdness. First time through I hated it but it slowly grew on me (still there’s a handful of tunes I really didn’t like) . Not something I’d listen to very often but I give them major props for trying something different. www.john-frazier.com
GLOBES ON REMOTE- THE WOO HOO WOO- SELF RELEASED- Debut from L.A. band and they mention the words “dance p[arty’ , “Hall and Oates” and “Huey Lewis” on the sticker on the cover. Basically it’s synth-based dance music with falsettos, hand claps and the like. Not as bad as that sticker says. www.globesonremote.com
HAIL THE SIZE- I CAN’T DIE IN L.A.- GOOD DRUMMER- This band is essentially the duo of Charles Ezell (Nashville cat) and Matt North (drummer/produce r) and these 11 cuts offer perfect reflections of the cry-in-your-beer ethos that we’ve all heard before but on I CAN’T DIE IN L.A. the performances are convincing and they have added some talented players (including Lone Justice’s Maria McKee and cellist Matt Fish) and the songwriting is ace. Don’t let this obscure near-classic pass you by. www.goodrummer.com
HALF-HANDED CLOUD- CUT ME DOWN & COUNT MY RINGS- ASTHMATIC KITTY- After 4 full-lengths John Ringhofer decided it was time to do some compiling so these 46 songs are culled from previous eps, tape, singles, comps, etc. They span all of the 2000’s and range from clumsily put together lop-fi cuts to something much more sophisticated. While I don’t always like Ringhofer’s tunes (though I usually dig about half) you have to give the guy credit for going at it and slowing down or even not taking a breath. My fave song of the bunch: “He’s Not the Swindler We Are.” www.asthmatickitty.cm
HARLEY’S WAR- HARDCORE ALL-STARS- MVD CD/DVD- This is ex-Stimulators/Cro Mags guy Harley doing solo stuff and the cd portion of it includes the Harleys war cd (generic metal/thrash) along with a 1982 solo demo (4 songs that I like a lot more) and a live gig from CBGB’s (15 tunes). The dvd contains a NYC show, a show from Germany and one form Japan. I can respect the guys longevity and dedication to the scene but have never really been a fan. www.mvdb2b.com
GARY HIGGINS- SECONDS- DRAG CITY- Drag City reissued his1973 record RED HASH a few years ago and here are some new Higgins tunes that are, well sorta similar to his record from over 3 decades ago and very different. The production here is, naturally, a lot crisper but his songwriting still seems strong. Opening cut “Demons” is pretty little acoustic song while “Little Squirrel” ads some dramatic strings but then gets a bit too dramatic considering the subject matter. “Ten-Speed’ adds some baroqueness to it and “When I was Young’ is just a nice acoustic pop tune. Overall? I’m impressed, this coulda been bad but it’s not. www.dragcity.com
HOLLANDS- MOTHER ep- SELF RELEASED- Hard to categorize this NYC bunch, (led by the elusive John-Paul Norporth) but repeated listens will yield fresh fruits. At times it’s folky while others times cracked spasms of noise will come bounding out of your stereo and elsewhere a cello n’ viola will duel and at times all 3 in the same some (“Just Like Them”). Take a chance. www.hollandsss.com
IDLE TIGERS- THE SPIRIT SALON- LE GRAND MIGUSTERY- Oddball release from this one man band outta Toronto (Ross Hawkins is his name don’t wear it out). Oddball synth pop in the ‘el Records vein with cracked spoken words pieces atop a synth gone loco. I can’t figure it out. www.magistery.com
I LOVE YOU- BELL ORD FORREST- JOYFUL NOISE- It gave me a headache (and made my pee smell weird). www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com
KATASTROPHE- THE WORST AMAZING- 307 KNOX- Well, sounds like rap music. Better than Vanilla Ice but not as good as Ice Cube, how about that? www.307knoxrecords.com
KRUM BUMS- SAME OLD STORY ep- TKO- The normally reliable TKO has released a stinker here. Metallic punk with truly awful vocals (with some occasional backing whoah-ohs). These guys should listen to some old Die Kruezen records to see how it’s done right. www.tkorecords.com
KARNIVOOL- SET FIRE TO THE HIVE- SONY- Aussie “hard rock, experimental, metal, prog and compared to Tool and Incubus” have earned the distinction of the worst record listened to this month. Good job!
LOUISIANA TERRITORY- TRACES OF GOLD- SELF RELEASED- Real nice melodic gunk by this Richmond, VA trio and produced by John Morand (who did a bunch of the Honor Roll stuff back in the day). Vocalist Mark Brown has a real nice set of pipes and musically it’s a cross somewhere between Nada Surf and The Church. 10 cuts, no filler. www.laterritory.com
THE LOVELY EGGS- IF YOU WERE FRUIT- HHBTM- Holly & David are the duo here and they hail from Lancaster, which is somewhere in England. These 19 songs seem to waver between inspired amateurism (ala early Beat Happening) and just plain annoying noise of two folks fucking around and recording it. At times childlike and other times childish. A bit too much for me. www.hhbtm.com
THE LOWER 48- EVERYWHERE TO GO ep- GRAPE JUICE- Quartet of Twin Cities youngsters who sound incredibly mature for their young ages. Ben (guitarist) and Sarah (guitars and piano) both sing and sound lovely but it’s Colin Martinez’s viola that adds more depth and beauty to the songs. “Transmission Pt. 1” and “Bedroom’ are two beauts but all 5 of these tunes are strong. www.myspace.com/heylookitsthelower48
LULLWATER- FOLREST FOR THE TREES- SELF RELEASED- I’ll give any band that has water in their name chance. Was expecting something a lot more low-key but these 5 tunes are more bombastic than I like. Sorta like the Drive by Truckers minus the good songs, but it’s not all bad as I did like “Whatever Happened.” www.lullwatermusic.com
MADNESS- THE LIBERTY OF NORTON FOLGATE- YEP ROC- These UK ska mainstays might be remembered for their early 80’s hit “Our House” (for me it was more “One Step Beyond”) but they are huge in their home land. This I their first record in a decade and its chock full of soul to pop to pub and beyond. And always nice to see that sense of humor (humour) is still there. www.yeproc.com
NO EVIL STAR- FAIRY TALES & FALLING THEMES- SELF RELEASED- “Analog fuzz in a digital world.” I can’t describe it any better than that. www.myspace.com/noevilstarproject
NOW WE’VE GOT MEMBERS- THEN IS JUST ANOTHER KIND OF NOW- METRONOMICON AUDIO- They hail from Oslo, Norway, one review said they sound lie Belle & Sebastian (which got me excited….they don’t) and now all I hear is what sounds like Greek/Balkan music. Apparently live it’s quite a party but all I’ve got is this cd and I wanna hear something else. www.www.metronomiconaudio.net
ROBIN O’BRIEN- THE APPLE IN MAN- LUXOTONE- Every once in a while I pop a cd into the player for review and it doesn’t play. This , unfortunately, was one of those circumstances. I can tell you it’s her third record sand a song cycle as well (also that she was a classmate of Aimee Mann and Juliana Hatfield at Berklee School of Music). www.luxotone.com
PARALLAX PROJECT- I HATE GIRLS- KOOL KAT- Hailing from , of all places, Mechanicsburg, PA this limber quartet, led by power pop afficionado Mike Giblin (ex-Cherry Twister), sound like are firing on all cylinders. The production, by longtime guy on the scene Don Dixon, gives the tunes some guitar grit and Giblin never passes up an opportunity to stick a well-placed hook right where it’s needed. A few of the pop nuggets on here include the title track and “Waiting to Pull the Trigger” and they even send the set with a cover of the Velvelettes “Needle in a Haystack.” Nice. www.koolkatmusik.com
AMANDA PEARCY- WAITIN’ ON SUNDAY- BUDDY JAKE- Sometimes this sort of homespun honkeytonk Americana resonates with me and sometimes it doesn’t. This time it didn’t. She has a nice voice, can write a tune and has a host of talented musicians on the record but probably not something I’d listen to again ( I did really enjoy “Paint by Numbers”) . www.amandapearcy.com
RESIN HITS- HOW TO CUT A ROCK- EXOTIC FEVER- Sore throat rock that reminded me at times of Rancid, Dropkick Murphys and a few other screamers (press kit says Buzzcocks but I don’t hear that at all). Leader Daniel Hukill keeps things simple and while it wasn’t bad for a listen not sure I’ll be spinning it again. www.myspace.com/resithitsmusic
SARAKULA- CITY HEART- SELF RELEASED- Pro, piano pop by an Aussie who , if they stars aligned properly, could be real famous. While he has a nice voice and can find his way around a hook, most of this is a bit too slick for me (and I’m no lo-fi snob) . He does get help on the record from DAGGER fave Bryan Estepa. www.sarakula.com
SECRET POWERS- SECRET POWERS AND THE ELECTRIC FAMILY CHOIR- SELF RELEASED- Not sure if this Montana bunch are cult-esque (ala The Polyphonic Spree) but there’s a ton of people on the cover an it seems to have that same sort of up with the people vibe to it . At 20 songs it’s a lot to swallow but for the Beach Boys/E.L.O. fan in you (and the P. Spree too) then by all means give it a whirl as there’s lot of tasty hooks on here. www.myspace.com/secretpowersmt
THE SEEDY SEEDS- COUNT THE DAYS- EURODORABLE- Cincy duo of Mike and Margaret who love the Reds, hate the Bengals and have made one of the more fun records I’ve heard this year. Folky pop with occasional bits of electronic and when they both sing it’s the tops. Sweet (and extra points for the cover reminding me of an Ed’s Redeeming Qualities record) www.eurodorable.com
SELF-EVIDENT- ENDINGS- DOUBLEPLUSGOOD- Tight math rock and though I’m no fan of the genre this would work out if it were instrumental. It’s the vocals I don’t like (occasional bouts of scream) but these guys have their chops down. www.doubleplusgoodrecords.com
SLEEP WHALE- HOUSEBOAT- WESTERN VINYL- This Denton, TX duo of Bruce & Joel (formerly known as Mom) have garnered a boatload (sorry) full of positive press on the strength of their breezy audio collages. I can usually take or leave this stuff but these two do incorporate some sweet, sweet sounds into their post-rock tripness. Say no more, I’m a believer (for the good songs, anyway. www.westernvinyl.com
SNOWSTORM- S/T- MONOTONE RECORDS- This is Kevin of the Monotone Recs empire doing his own lo-fi bedroom pop and it’s great to hear. Back in the 90;sd bands like this were dime a dozen but now everyone has gone all pro and tossed their 4-tracks away , ‘cept for Kevin (and Lou Barlow). 10 songs in 20 minutes and it’s ALL good. www.monotonetapes.com
SPECIAL PATROL- THE STRANGER’S DOZEN- SELF RELEASED- Adelaide, Australia 5-some who bring the pop noise on their third record. Sometimes it’s ebullient and sometimes real laid back and low key but regardless they can write a great tunes. And I’m not sure why “Right On” has 4823 plays on their myspace page while the amazing pop tunes “Ordinary Life” only has 934. Come on people, get a playin’ and get this record pronto. www.specialpatrol.com.au
THE STEVENSON RANCH DAVIDIANS- LIFE & DEATH- SELF RELEASED- This So. Cal. bunch, led by Dwayne Seagraves, write gorgeous hymns to the silence with lots of gentle melodies and Dwayne’s smooth voice. I was reminded of the acoustic Brian Jonestown Massacre tunes as well as Spiritualized. There’s 10 songs on here and not a dog in the bunch and I still can’t believe how unknown this band still is. Tune in and turn on. www.thestevensonranchdavidians.com
STILL LIFE STILL- GIRLS COME TOO- ARTS & CRAFTS- Apparently this Toronto bunch have been at it for over a decade but this is their debut record. Perfectionists? Maybe, but Broken Social Scene guy Kevin Drew did a masterful job on the production and hey, let’s give the band some credit here too. GIRLS COME TOO is full of crystalline guitars and occasionally complex rhythms to show they’ve got chops but most of the 11 tunes are embedded with a hook to die for. “Flowers and a Wreath” is a perfect example of this and just for some advice, don’t wait as long as I did to finally check this record out. www.arts-crafts.ca
VEGAS KINGS- YOU’LL NEVER WORK IN THIS TOWN AGAIN- MERENOISE- Like Special Patrol (see above) these cats hail from Oz but these guys are from Brisbane and go for a more grinding, blues/garage howl. Not in Cosmic Psychos or feedtime territory yet but maybe after a few more records. www.merenoise.net
THE VERY FOUNDATION- THIS RESTLESS ENTERPRISE- SELF RELEASED- What I think was one dude in his bedroom has ballooned to more than a few members but this Portland bunch with helop for some Decemberists and many others) are all over the place in the best way possible. “My Sweetest Defeat” has tootin’ horns all over the place (as does the great “Runaway to Tokyo”) while “Better Get Off” has a murky bottom end and Michael Lewis’ deep croon (think Nick Cave in a good mood). T.V.F .are onto something here and you do not wanna be the last one on this bandwagon. www.myspace.com/theveryfoundation
WAUMISS- S/T- ODESSA- A husband/wife duo of Clarque and Caroline Blomquist might be like any other schmucks out there recording on their 4-track in their laundry room (cos’ the bedroom got too passé) but these cracked sounds actually sound unique and while at times it’s bit fractured they make the whole thing work and it’s (usually ) hummable too. My faves were “Tummy Aches’ and “RAH-MO-NYA.” Oh and if you tell Clarque he spelled his first name wrong he WILL hurt you. So don’t do it. Just don’t. www.odessarecords.com
WIRETAPS- STATIC RESURRECTION- SELF RELEASED- A posthumous release for this Seattle band that featured Lisa from The Inhalant, Dave from the Fall-Outs and Steve form The Calabros. I think this is only their 2nd (full-length) record in 14 years but hey, better late than never, right? Ultimately they’re pop songs as influenced by The Modern Lovers as they are The Sonics. These 14 tunes are the best of the most recent recordings. These songs should make you wanna write letters begging them to reform (please use your best penmanship). stevemalmin@verizon.net
WORLD’S GREATEST GHOSTS- NO MAGIC- LUCKY MADISON- Yet another Portland bunch I knew nothing about. These bearded weirdos (ok, so only 1 person in the band has a beard) crank up the synths and don’t forget he fun. Most songs swirl n’ sway and occasionally bust wide open (“Magick Words”) in the best way possible. It’s 90’s indie rock meets’ the 2000’s .,…whatever. I’m honestly surprised these guys haven’t gotten more acclaim as they definitely deserve it. www.luckymadison.com
V/A- FLIP SKATEBOARDS PRESENTS: EXTREMELY SORRY SOUNDTRACK- VOLCOM- Why is Lemmy flipping me off on the back cover? www.volcom.com
AND HERE’S SOME SHORT REVIEWS BY REBECCA LIANNE!
APOSTLE OF HUSTLE – EATS DARKNESS – ARTS&CRAFTS RECORDS- At first I thought these guys sounded like YLT, which they do a little, but the more I listen, the more I hear Modest Mouse. Wait, they just brought in a female vocalist, so I’m back to YLT. Take it for what it’s worth – the rhythms are catchy, the lyrics are sometimes humorous and fairly clever - not half bad. Best tracks = “Soul Unwind,” “Xerses” and “Blackberry.”
THE AX – OUR QUEEN OF DIRT – WHOA! BOAT RECORDS- This is what the Velvet Underground would sound like if they sucked.
BLACK MOTH SUPER RAINBOW – EATING US – GRAVEFACE RECORDS- The first track is very Yankee Hotel Foxtrot – oooh..gimmie more. Mazzy Star meets My Bloody Valentine with a little help from Little Joy. The sound is a bit freaky. It’s like indie-drone-techno. Take a ride.
RACHEL TAYLOR BROWN – SUSAN STORM’S UGLY SISTER AND OTHER SAINTS AND SUPERHEROES – CUTTHROAT POP RECORDS-I think her voice is an acquired taste, but I also think her music has merit. It’s super quirky but more experimental than someone like Regina Spektor. Echoes of The Beatles mirror completely whacky sound effects and musical arrangements. Brown meshes old school with new age pretty flawlessly, but that mix might sound sour for some.
ARRINGTON DE DIONYSO – I SEE BEYOND THE BLACK SUN – KLP 200 RECORDS - This is the most frightening thing I’ve ever heard. It’s like all the scary monsters that have ever lurked under your bed are coming out to sing to you. Hell to the no.
DES ROAR – MAD THINGS – INDEPENDENT RELEASE- It seems The Pink Spiders have a redheaded stepbrother: Des Roar. In short: NYC rockers that do too many drugs, drink too much booze and write songs about it in predictable time and on-again/off-again vocals. With a more polished attitude, they might get somewhere other than out of your bed at 6 a.m. Tracks that might stay stuck in your head include “When In Rome” and “Baby You’re Too Young.”
ROBERT GOMEZ – PINE STICKS AND PHOSPHORUS – NOVA POSTA RECORDS - I feel like I’ve heard this opening track, “On This Day,” somewhere before, and it’s a happy familiarity. It’s eerie yet mellow and is like a psychedelic dream in my ear. The other songs follow suit, but stand outs include “Middle Of Nowhere” and “Lock The Door’ because it sounds like Nico’s “Winter Song.”
GLASVEGAS – SELF-TITLED – COLUMBIA RECORDS- Right in line with this band’s lamer than lame name is their lamer than lame attempt at making pop-punk-emo something experimental and epic. The vocals are overdrawn and gasping for air. These songs all sound the same - like rock’n’roll versions of boy-band love ballads. I hate this. Shame on you, Columbia.
HANDSOME FURS – FACE CONTROL – SUB POP RECORDS- If gothic, 80’s electronica is what you’re into, then I apologize, but at least you’ll have a new favorite band: Handsome Furs. If Depeche Mode had exaggerated vocals and dabbled in the Marilyn Manson guitar arts, you’d have this band like 15 years ago. Oh, and nice try of ripping of Gang Of Four’s “Entertainment!” by creating a totally red album cover with bold, uppercase letters and a distorted image left of center. Umm... yeah, this is bad.
HEAD RESONANCE COMPANY AND PETER PIXEL PROJECT – 19 TRACKS FOR UNKNOWN PEOPLE – BETA-IACTAM RING RECORDS- What we have here is electronic music mixed with standard noise and it’s kind of like being in slow motion - a slow rave… The sound qualities vary from ambient to poppy and the “vocals” are just vocoder tracks at different speeds made to sound robotic. Maybe I’m over the whole robot craze, but I was pretty bored with this by track four.
HI RED CENTER – ASSEMBLE – JOYFUL NOISE RECORDINGS- Before the music even begins, Hi Red Center recorded this album in Brooklyn and are on Joyful Noise Recordings…how bad could this be? The musical arrangements are really interesting and a bit reminiscent of Ladybug Transistor or even old-school Weezer. But the vocals, my God, the vocals - nasally, shaky and trying way too hard to be cute. My ears, they gag.
HOT GOSSIP – YOU LOOK FASTER WHEN YOU ARE YOUNG – GHOST RECORDINGS - Hot Gossip are just a bunch of hot guys. Correction: a bunch of hot, Italian guys. It’s pop-rock at its finest, right along with Arctic Monkeys, Gringo Star and Good Shoes. Your head will bop, your toes will tap and the eye candy is pretty sweet, too. Sure, every song kind of sounds the same, but that comes with the genre. My faves include “Everybody Else,” “Fast In The Rain,” “You Name It” and “And Again.”
LADYFINGER (NE) – DUSK – SADDLE CREEK RECORDS - This a little too generic-sludge-emo for me. The bands on Saddle Creek just keep getting worse and worse, right? It sounds exactly like Alkaline Trio, which was hugely popular like a decade ago. Boo. Hiss.
LKN – PHRATRY EP – PHRATRY RECORDS- This was completely unexpected. After a really stupid 40-second, spoken intro bit, the guitar riffs wail into some rollercoaster of sound and LKN (Lauren K. Newman) tuning into her inner Patti Smith. I think Kim Gordon would like this. Now THAT’S a good review!
MAD SIN – 20 YEARS IN SIN SIN – HEP CAT RECORDS- I can tell by the cover art, band name and album title that I’m going to hate this. OMG, and it’s two CDs; how will I survive!? I press play, aaaaand….it’s fast, hard and morbid. Although, it’s actually not the worst neo-punk I’ve ever heard. There are even some throwback riffs to surf-punk. So, I’ve learned that this band is great to skank to and you can’t judge a bunch of punks by their album cover.
THE OLD CEREMONY – WALK ON THIN AIR – ALYOSHA RECORDS-This band has an air about them that smells as sweet Wilco, especially in “Plate Tectonics.” With a voice like Brandon Flowers, this band could really have mass appeal. Every track is very dreamlike in a Spain sort of way with a hint of inspiration from Radiohead. I dig.
PUSH-PULL – BETWEEN NOISE AND THE INDIANS – JOYFUL NOISE RECORDSINGS - I’ve never heard a band trying so hard to BE the Pixies. Guys, it’s not going to happen, especially with whatever the hell THIS is. The album art is this band’s shining moment. Inserting CD into CD player just a waste of time.
ANNI ROSSI – AFTON – 4AD RECORDS - This chick was referred to me by a friend as a cure for the Regina Spektor overdose. Upon finally listening, I can see what he means, but I don’t think Rossi can lyrically compare to Ms. Spektor. If you’ve ever heard of Hop Along Queen Alseis, and you liked her, you’ll like this, too. Best tracks include: “Ecology” and “Wheelpusher.”
STENCIL – THE DEAD LIE GOLDEN – NO RECORD LABEL- It’s easy to sell me with handclaps, and “Marble” is littered with them. Stencil has a Belle & Sebastian feel without that charming European accent… Interesting musical arrangements and instruments make for an indie-rock-pop menagerie a la The Sneetches, The Decemberists and Matthew Sweet. Other noteworthy tracks include “The Prize” and “Glossolalia.”
SYLVIE – TREES AND SHADE ARE OUR ONLY FENCES – WEDNESDAY RECORDS - Aww…Matt Pond PA had a baby. Sylvie would like you to think of them as MPPa, and this album is dreamy and drum-driven enough to kind of pull it off. I hear a little more of a pop-punk influence in Sylvie’s sound, but it doesn’t overshadow the obvious indie-emo-pop goal. “Breakout For Summer,” “Listen Up” and “When We Were Young” are keepers, for sure.
BOBBY VACANT AND THE WEARY – TEAR BACK THE NIGHT – LUXOTONE RECORDS 704 - Robyn Hitchcock meets Ryan Adams. It’s eerie but pretty, disturbing but reflective and is full of some damn good finger picking. “Dylan’s Dead” could have easily been a Neil Young song. This is a solid record with kitsch appeal, but a clearly identifiable and definite musical foundation, as well. Bobby Vacant and The Weary pass with flying colors.
VALINA – A TEMPO! A TEMPO! – JOYFUL NOISE RECORDS- This, is horrible.
WESTERN CIV – SHOWER THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE WITH GOLD – CLERMONT RECORDS - I was on the fence of this indie-rock band until I heard “The Disturbing Presence of Chachi.” It takes me back to “Stop Breathing,” and who doesn’t smile when they hear Pavement? Western Civ makes pretty good music, and is certainly influenced by some of the best (Sonic Youth lovers, rejoice!).
THE WOLVERTON BROTHERS – OLD, UGLY AND LOUD – IONIK RECORDINGS - The vocalist on track one sounds like we’re about to do the mash, the monster mash. The Wolverton Brothers are like drone metal lite, with some experimental noise thrown in. Parts of every song are okay, but just okay. As much as I admire the album title and the fact that they have a song named “Cheese,” I’m pretty sure that that’s the most they have going for them.
JANUARY 2010
AH HOLLY FAM’LY- RESERVOIR- LUCKY MADISON- My initial thought , before listening, was “another way overhyped Portland band (way too many of them) but upon listening this is actually low key folky gunk with an Appalachian feel, at times and a soundtrack-y feel at others. The voice comes from husband and wife of Jeremy and Becky and lots of strings on here too (plus bells, flutes and a clarinet…what, no oboe?). Jeremy’s vocals take some getting used to but this is a unique record that deserves repeated listens. www.luckymadison.com
APPLE ORCHARD- LEAFY LANES- HAYMARKET- More gentle pop goodness form Ryan and Dale Marquez straight outta the SF Bay Area. Last year’s HALF-STEPS TOWARD BIRGHT SKIES was a nice full length and here are 5 more tunes in the same vein. The opener “Hit or Miss” is pure Field Mice pop while “That Sleepy Side of Town” was pure jangle If you’re missing labels like Sarah or Sunday then this will give you’re the proper fix. www.appleorchardpop.com
ADAM BALBO- BIG KID NOW- SELF RELEASED- Looking at this guy’s site it appears that he has a ton of records out (including a full-length newer than this called FIX). These 6 tunes are sorta a Bob Dylan meets Adam Green, that’s to say folky tunes with a bit of jokey innocence. The best tune here is the title track but it is solid all around. www.myspace.com/adambalbo
ALAN BERNHOFT- FRANKENSTEIN ROCK- SELF RELEASED- This is the same guy who released the BEATLESQUE ONE cd a year or so back that I reviewed. Looking at his site he has a ton of releases out, this one is a tribute of sorts to Frankenstein , sort of retelling the story with light pop accompanying. I think I’ll stick to the BEATLEESQUE cd. www.alanbernhoft.com
ALAN BERNHOFT- COSMIC CROONER- SELF RELEASED- One of Bernhoft’s many cds, this is spacey rock with deep, dark vocals ala Jim Morrison, Leonard Cohen or David Bowie, take your pick. I really could have done without hearing this. www.alanbernhoft.com
WILLIE BREEDING- CHEAP VODKA RAIN- SELF RELEASED- Brooklyn via Kentucky songwriter who, with help from Marah’s Dave Bielanko, has crafted a terrific record here with a fine batch of musicians and some true songwriting talent. Drinking form that Gram Parsons well too Breeding has made heartbreak sound quite pleasant. www.myspace.com/williebreedingmusic
CARTOGRAPHER- S/T- SELF RELEASED- This San Francisco band is led by Mr. Scott Gagner (who is also in Town & Country, see review below) but this band is his baby it’s not far off from T & C’s smooth pop. Only 7 tunes here but they do a nice mix of styles and opening cut ”The Trouble With You” opens to near pop perfection while “I’m Not Following You” is pure hand-clappin’ power pop. With Christmas nearing treat yourself (yes, you!) to this AND the Town & Country cd for what will be a joyous holiday season. www.cartographermusic.com
CAUSE CO-MOTION!- BECAUSE BECAUSE BECAUSE ep- SLUMBERLAND- These jitter punks are still at it, offering us 6 more reverb-heavy tunes that don’t really expand upon the full-length but are easily just as good. If the C-86 scene was important to you (as it was me) then this will be a welcome addition to your collection. www.slumberlandrecords.com
CHARIOTS OF TUNA- FONDNESS MAKES THE HEART GROW DISTANT- SELF RELEASED- Been a while since we heard from NYC-er Ben Morss but he still has his bands going. This is only 3 songs but three fine summery pop songs with plenty of bah-bah-bahs. Just the kind of stuff to play on this sunny (but very cold ) December morning. www.myspace.com/chariotsoftuna
CHOO CHOO LA ROUGE- BLACK CLOUDS- KIAM- O, so this Boston trio gets a D minus in the band naming dept but they excel in other areas (penmanship, etc.). Led by vocalist/guitarist Vince Scorziello , they have a real cool Velvets/Modern Lovers vibe on this sophomore effort. The rhythm section more than capably keeps the beat while Scorziello wiggles his axe into an Ira Kaplan-esque submission on most tunes (especially on opener “The Relentless Money Love Blues”) while a few other tunes have more of a Americana vibe. Take notice, DAGGER readers. www.myspace.com/kiamrecords
COFFINBERRY- S/T- COLLECTIBLE ESCALATORS- I liked the cereal (or was that Frankenberry?) and might have liked this but being a cds would not play in my player. Check out the Collectible Escalator label though, they have lots of good stuff on it. www.collectibleescalators.com
AMELIA CURRAN- WAR BRIDES- SIX SHOOTER- Canadian chanteuse Amelia recorded this in her bedroom with her pal Phil Sedore . She sings and plays acoustic guitar while Phil plays a ton of other instruments. Musically it’s low key and countrified (lots of mandolin from Phil) but it’s her raspy vocals and stories of love both found and lost that resonate with listeners. Straight up, this is a terrific collection of tunes here. www.sixshooterrecords.com
THE DEAR HUNTER- ACT III: LIVE AND DEATH- TRIPLE CROWN- Record #3 (duh) from Casey Crescenzo’s studio project (he used to be in Boston emo band Receiving End of Sirens) and it’s the 3rd part in a rock opera trilogy (concept album). The record veers from ambitious pop arrangements ala Queen to something rougher, more jagged and emo sounding (my least favorite parts of the record), often in the same song. Both “In Cauda Venenum” and “What It Means to be Alone” were impressive. Still trying to make my mind up about this record but at the very least you gotta commend Crescenzo on his ambition (even the packaging as each song has its own postcard with lyrics and info on it). . www.triplecrownrecords.com
DEJHA COLANTUONO- TEA &VODKA- MAD MEOW- I’ve never heard of this gal before but apparently she has been on the Seattle scene for years and with the amount of musicians on this record it appears she is well connected. The sound is all over the place, I didn’t like the meandering opener (“Beginning to End”) too much but “Color Blue” was more direct and rockin’ with some great lead guitar work and “Fences’ was a nice mid-tempo number and “Anxiety” shows off Colantuono’s cool raspy vocals. www.madmeowmusic.com
THE DOWNER PARTY- EGO-DRIVEN LUST CREATURES- POP SMEAR- San Fran trio doing snappy pop punk with occasionally annoying female vocals which are equal parts Poly Styrene, Courtney Love and Siouxsie but not nearly as good as any. I did like the beach pop of “Superbowl” but the other 4 tunes didn’t cut it. www.popsmearrecords.com
EMMITT NERSHI BAND- NEW COUNTRY BLUES- SCI FIDELITY- This is Drew Emmitt (from Leftover Salmon) and Bill Nershi (from String Cheese Incident who, along with some other pals on other instruments do a lot of picking and fun strumming’. You’ll hear plenty of banks, mandolins, dobro, fiddle, and, of course, guitars. If I admitted I liked this hippie stuff my friends would disown me (but ya’ know what? It’s pretty good….shhhhh). www.emmittnershiband.com
FIGHTING THE VILLAIN- FIRST IMPRESSION- POP SMEAR- “Progressive pop band” from the East Bay who , to my ears, don’t seem to add anything new to a genre that’s tired to begin with. The female vocals are feckless and rthe whole thing is generic with a capitol G. www.popsmearrecords.com
GORDON GANO & THE RYANS- UNDER THE SUN- YEP ROC- In which our old hero form the Violent Femmes hooks up with the Ryan Brothers (Billy and Brendan of group The Bogmen) and here he offers up an eclectic mix of rock/pop from the soaring opener (“Man in the Sand”) to the funkier chop of “Wave and Water” and the country slant of “Hired Gun.” Wasn’t quite sure what to expect from Gano at this stage in the game and while this is at times uneven, it’s a lot stronger than I thought it would be. www.yeproc.com
HANNY- SCENEITY: AN ACCOUNT OF THE INFLUENCE OF SCENES ON OCCIDENTAL SOCIETIES- METRONOMICON AUDIO- Norwegian bunch and I’m not sure if there’s 3 or 300 people in this band. They add lots of string instruments (lots of violins) and the vocals are female and high-pitched (think Bjork). The stuff has been described as epic and I’ll go with that. Still trying to make up my mind but I did like the one minute piano ballad “Ardennen.” www.metronomiconaudio.net
HER VANISHED GRACE- BLUE- ATHAME MUSIC- Judging by the artwork I thought I was going to really hate this (I was thinking bad prog) but this is really nice dream pop form a NYC couple (Nance and Charlie Nieland) that have been making music for nearly 2 decades. “Slip Away” is the pick to click here but several other tunes are head turners (“Rush” for instance). www.hvgrace.com
HERE WE GO MAGIC- S/T WESTERN VINYL- In which quirky singer/songwriter Luke Temple appears under a new name (with a full band) doing everything from folk pop to more baroque stuff and even delving into country music. “Fangela” is sorta African tribal pop with a dreamy melody while “Tunnelvision” adds more 60’s pop elements to it. Either way it’s all intriguing. www.westernvinyl.com
PATTERSON HOOD- MURDERING OSCAR- RUTH ST- This I the Drive by Truckers main guy on his first solo record (he write half of these songs in 1994, when he first arrived n Athens, GA) and while I love the Truckers I had a hard time with this. It’s got the bloozy, redneck vibe of DBT records but minus the hooks. I tried. www.pattersonhood.com
HORDE OF TWO- GUITAR & BASS ACTIONS- SMARTEN UP/GET TO THE POINT- This is another duo for Mecca Normal’s David Lester but instead of Jean Smith on vocals he has a bassist named Wendy Atkinson to bounce off of. The songs are instrumentals and much more experimental than M.N. They try out some different configurations (including some piano) and the results are usually spare and meandering. www.myspace.com/wendyampdavid
JAMES HUSBAND- A PARALLAX I- POLYVINYL- James Husband is actually James Huggins, a member of Of Montreal (he plays in some other Athens, GA bands too). This is his solo debut and it’s all over the map both in terms of styles as well as song quality. It was recorded over a 5 year period in several different studios and you have everything from Beatles-pop of “Grayscale” to spacier stuff like “Elephant Alibi.” Still trying to make my mind up about this one. www.polyvinylrecords.com
HYPERSTORY- S/T- PURELAND- Ambient space rock from a bunch of L.A. professional musicians. Not as bad as it sounds but not good either. www.hyperstory.com
IMPEDIMENTS- S/T- HAPPY PARTS- These young cats (recent graduates of a high school in Berkeley, CA) know their history. On this debut full-length (11 tunes) these crank out high-energy garage boogie rock ala the NY Dolls/MC5/Stooges/Dead Boys, etc. Give a listen to “Stoned to Bed” and tell me it doesn’t conjure up the ghost of Stiv. Lovingly produced by Greg Ashley (well done, sir). www.happypartsrecordings.com
I WAS A KING- S/T- THE CONTROL GROUP- This Norwegian’s bunch tunes seem to fall right in between the melodic heaviness of Dino Jr and the wigged-out spaceyness of a band like The Lilys. At 15 songs it’s too long but cut it in half and c herry pick the best songs and they have a really strong ep here. As it is now it’s still not bad. www.controlgroupco.com
JEREMY- JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE HEART- JAM- - From the artwork and the title I had this pegged as one of Jeremy’s prog rock records but no, this is a baker’s dozen of his patented psychedelic-y power pop and this is as good a batch of songs as he’s written yet. Lots of 12-string guitars, tambourines and the like. Tune in and turn on.
JOHN’S REVOLUTION- TODAY YOUR LOVE, TOMORROW THE WORLD- SELF RELEASED- They have Swedish (or maybe German?) names claim to be form Italy and sound bombastic and British so who the hell knows. The list influences are Sex Pistols, Oasis, Beatles, Stones and The Verve so they have set their sights high. They seem to have the swagger down and (most of ) the tunes too (at times it gets too overblown for me). My pick to click here is “Pocket Symphony.” www.johnsrevolution.com
SIMON JOYNER- OUT INTO THE SNOW- TEAM LOVE- Record #12 from Mr Joyner and I think I have missed the last several after following him in the 90’s. These 8 tunes fall right in between the gorgeous lonesomeness of Bob Dylan and Townes Van Zandt. With not much more than a voice and his acoustic guitar, Joyner is able to move most folks to tears. For a good cry go here: www.team-love.com
THE LAYAWAYS- THE SPACE BETWEEN- MYSTERY FARM- This Chicago trio have certainly turned my head with this record (their 3rd, I believe) . All 3 of them write songs but most are done by guitarist David Harrell and bassist Mike Porter. At times the sounds gets a bit jagged like Spoon while others it more melodic and I was reminded of Galaxie 500 a bit. Either way they have not forgotten the importance of songwriting (imagine that) and thus, THE SPACE BETWEEN is well worth checking out. www.thelayaways.com
GARY LEWIS & THE PLAYBOYS- THE COMPLETE LIBERTY SINGLES- COLLECTORS CHOICE- Just like the Jan & Dean collection of last year this is their complete singles collection on Liberty Records. 45 songs spread out over 2 discs. Can’t say I knew a lot about this bunch but there’s copious liner notes and of course you get to hear top 10 singles like “This Diamond Ring”, “Count Me In”, ?”Save Your Heart for Me” and plenty of others. Personally I’ll take bands like The Yellow Balloon over this but that’s just me (still, plenty of good stuff on here). www.ccmusic.com
LOS CAMPESINOS!- WE ARE BEAUTIFUL, WE ARE DOOMED- ARTS & CRAFTS- More jagged shoutalongs form these Welsh geniuses. They went to Seattle to record with John Goodmanson who smoothed off a few of the edges (not many though) and these 10 songs bounce from grinning guitars to keys to violins and let’s not forget the genius vocals. Join this party…now! www.arts-crafts.ca
TOM MCBRIDE & THE WHIG PARTY- LIKE A LION- SELF RELEASED- Washington, DC cat who spent some time in Nashville and it shows in some of the tunes as some of this does have a honky tonk swagger to it (“Cheap Thrill”). Most of it is downbeat and minor chords and not really my bag but I did dig the catchy “Cutting Up L.A.” www.myspace.com/tommcbride
THE METROSCHIFTER- CARBONISTAS- NOISE POLLUTION- Dark and dissonant, this ex-Louisville band (main guy has left for Sweden) is for fans of Fugazi. Their resemblance to the famed Wash, DC band (musically speaking) is uncanny. www.noisepollutionrecords.com
VINCENT MINOR- BORN IN THE WRONG ERA- SOCIAL SCIENCE- Terrific piano pop in the Rufus Wainwright vein (and a slight hint of Ben Folds but Vincent is better than that IMHO. Along with his pal Tom Biller (and several other extra musicians) they have made an enchanting record with moody piano, gorgeous strings, and bubbly keyboards and Minor’s conversational voice. My favorite is the shuffling “Late Night Show” but all 5 of these tunes are worthy. www.socialsciencerecs.com
NEW ROMAN TIMES- ON THE SLEEVE- NEW GRANADA- Add these guys name to the list of 00’s bands who dig deep into the 1980’s for inspiration (Interpol, Franz Ferdinand, Bloc Party, Arcade Fire, etc.). Like many of the above bands these guys do it very well (but with 1/10th the audience of those bands). These Austin, TX cats have their chops down and can write good songs. My pick to click here is “21st Century Limited’ but there’s several to choose from. www.newgranada.com
NURSES- APPLES’S ACRE- DEAD OCEANS- This Portland band made a huge splash this earlier this year with this sophomore effort and I hear a few interesting sound but not a lot in the way of songs. It’s as if the Flaming Lips were attempting to cove the Beach Boy’s SMILE. The gurgly “What Then” was nice and “Winter” was nearly as good but these guys need some focus. www.deadoceans.com
PARLOUR STEPS- THE HIDDEN NAMES- NINE MILE- I guess this Vancovuer, BC band , led by songwriter Caleb Stull, had a previous critically acclaimed record last year but I completely missed it. Still THE HIDDEN NAMES is good enough to make me want to search it out. There’s a bevy of musicians on here and while the more upbeat numbers bring to mind another Vancouver band (The New Pornographers) the moodier stuff brings a hint of The Decemberists. Both “Little Pieces’ and “Miraculous” should make believers out of you. www.parloursteps.com
ELVIS PERKINS- DOOMSDAY ep- XL- The son of late actor Anthony Perkins came into the spotlight with last year’s ELVIS PERKINS IN DEARLAND full length and here’s 6 more terrific songs from this (I think) soon to be great songwriter. At times coming off like a Dylan or Cohen, he also imbues his tunes with Dixieland type horns and a real sense of musical freedom as he seems to be racing to the finish line. The guy is a real talent and this is as good as any place to start in his catalog. www.xl-recordings.com
VANESSA PETERS & ICE CREAM ON MONDAY- SWEETHEART, KEEP YOUR CHIN UP- LITTLE SANDWICH- In which the Texas chanteuse, performing with an Italian trio (Ice Cream on Monday) offers up 14 heartbreaking tunes. Alternately sweeping/grand and simple. She should be huge and I’m not sure why she isn’t. www.vanessapeters.com
THE POSTMARKS- MEMOIRS AT THE END OF THE WORLD- UNFILTERED- This Miami, FL trio turned heads on their terrific debut from early 2007. After an all covers record last year this is their 2nd proper releases and it’s a doozie. This time out they go for a more John Barry swingin’ soundtrack type sound (think James Bond film music) and it totally works. Vocalist Tim Yehezekely ‘s( a female) sultry vocals are icing on the cake while the other 2/3 of the trio, Christopher Moll and Jonathan Wilkins (and a host of friends) lay down the vibe. At times it’s a bit much (a few of the tunes top the 5 minute mark) but most of MEMOIRS AT THE END OF THE WORLD is smashing. www.unfilteredrecords.com
PSYCHED TO DIE- YEAR ONE- DIRTNAP- This NJ band features at least one guy from the Ergs and on these 15 songs they creep out with a nihilist view and some dark tunes. This includes at least one previously released ep and some demos too and while it was ok not my favorite Dirtnap release. www.dirtnaprecs.com
THE RED CHANNELS- GHETTO COOKING- TEN DOLLAR- Creepy, at times eerie, mostly instrumental work form this duo on their 3rd or r4th fill length. Occasionally it slips into reggae tinged gunk. The 8 songs here are unique and while it’s good to see a band forge their own path this is not something I’m gonna play very often. www.myspace.com/redchannels
REVERENED HORTON HEAT- LAUGHIN’ AND CRYIN’ WITH THE REVEREND HORTON HEAT- YEP ROC- Was never a big fan of this popular rockabilly cat but the guy sure does have a big fan base. This is record #...I dunno 10? 15? Some of his early work was pedal-to-the-metal but this more like rockabilly lite. Not bad as background music but for fans lookin’ for something to play in their G.T.O. while hauling down the street this just wouldn’t cut it. www.yeproc.com
THE RURAL ALBERTA ADVANTAGE- HOMETOWNS- SADDLE CREEK- This low-key n’ nimble indie pop band form the outskirts of Toronto is easily likeable with their campfire songs about towns near you and me. Leader Nils Edenloff gets some help from a few lady friends and along the way there’s shuffling drums (and drum machine), a furiously strummed acoustic guitar, a violin, and Nil’s earnest vocals. Tunes like “The Deadroads” or “Don’t Haunt this Place’ are nearly impossible not to like. That same earnestness occasionally gets in the way but you won’t mind too often. www.saddle-creek.com
SAN KAZAKGASCAR- IDLE SHIPS- LATHER- 2nd record form this Sacramento, CA band doing sun-baked Middle Eastern music complete with inventive percussion and , of course a clarinet. Vocalist Jed Brewer has just the pipes for this kina material and if snakes out there need to be charmed then this is the band you’d want to do it. For fans of Sun City Girls and the Rain Parade’s “No Easy Way Down.” www.latherrecords.com
SCENE OF ACTION- 20 MINUTE HOURGLASS- POP SMEAR- More of that edgy, dancy poppy gunk that the kids love (ie: Bloc Party, etc.). While this isn’t my favorite genre these guys do it fairly well. I did dig “Jaded.” 6 songs. www.popsmearrecords.com
ALAN SEMERDJIAN- THE BIG BEAUTY=- ALAN ARTS- NYC cat who used to front the 90’s band Surreal but Alan has decided to strike out on his own,. This is his 2nd release and the songwriting is solid to excellent all the way around. Basically it’s a nice mix of rock/pop with a dash of Americana tossed in. “Bad Dreams” and the more acoustic-based “Bad Dreams” are two of my faves here. www.alansemerdjian.com
J. SEGER- WITH HIS HAT ON- SELF RELEASED- This NYC dude’s music is described as folk/blues/country on his my spaced site and I really wanted to hear this but it wouldn’t play in my cd player. Hey. It happens. www.myspace.com/jseger
THE SEXY ACCIDENT- MANTOLOKING- SELF RELEASED- This Kansas City, MO band named their (3rd) record after a town in my native New Jersey and got Seattle guy Steve Fisk to produce. This is decent rock/pop that occasionally melts into obnoxiouness (that guitar on “Buy Me Out”). Didn’t do a lot for me but you know how picky I am. www.sexyaccident.com
SHONEN KNIFE- SUPER GROUP- GOOD CHARAMEL- Hard to believe this Japanese trio has been around since the early 80’s when they won a cult following here in the USA but have appeared here only sporadically over the past several years. The only original member is singer/guitarist/songwriter Naoko Yamano. The simple pop tunes on here work these best and are close to the bandss best work but the other half of the record, where the band briefly forget they’re not The Donnas with meathead metal riffs, , simply don’t work. Still, the title track, the cloppity “Deer Biscuits” and the chipper “BBQ Party” are among the band’s best songs. www.goodcharamel.com
SISSY WISH- BEAUTIES NEVER DIE- AFTERNOON- Norwegian chanteuse Siri Alberg (aka Sissy Wish) came out of nowhere in 2003 with an ep and after 2 more guitar-oriented record decided to experiment on this 3rd record (which was released 2 year ago in her home country), toying more with synths, and the results are ……interesting. The songs are undeniably catchy and while this isn’t something I usually go for I am finding myself getting sucked in to these magical tunes. www.afternoonrecords.com
SOY UN CABALLO- LES HUERES DE RAISON- MINY FRESH- Gentle pop from this Belgian duo who barely seem to go above a whisper with their elegant, dreamy pop. Can’t understand a word they are saying but that’s ok as the musical backdrop is so comforting. “Volet” is my pick to click here. www.mintyfresh.com
THE SPINDLES- PICTURE IN PICTURE- SELF RELEASED- Always nice to see a talented new band come shakin’ outta my first adopted hometown of Santa Rosa, Calif (Portland being my 2nd adopted hometown). The vocals are by some guy named Coalmine (who I never heard of) but the band includes ex-Cropduster drummer Jamie Voss (he plays bass and harmonica here) and Sari Flowers on vocals (Sari was in a band called Pretty Face back in the early 90’s with Softie Jen Sbragia). The record opens with the sweet pop of “Sticky Sweet Jesus”, a terrific song with a catchy melody and the hushed vocals of Coalmine while “Something Serious’ is just as good with a killer, Byrdsy guitar work and “Asteroid” sounds like pure Beatles. A few of the tunes meander a bit too much but most of this is strong and I like the production job by man about town Jesse Wickman, eeking out (and leaving in) all of the band’s nuances. I unfortunately, missed their first Portland gig earlier this year but plan to be front and center for their next NW jaunt. www.myspace.com/thespindles
SUNLEY- APOLOGIES- DUNEDIN MUSIC- Sunley is actually Evan Sunley James, a New Zealand resident who has created a fine little record here with some cracked Americana. What you hear is a busted banjo, shuffling drums ,dusty acoustic guitars and on top is Sunley’s yearning vocals, not completely unlike a NZ-bred Will Oldham (minus the voice cracking). No crazed warbling here just good songs. www.sunleyband.com
SUSURRUS STATION- ADD A DAY GOING WEST- This duo’s music has been described as “avant folk’ which could drive it in many different directions. There are guitars, half mumbled vocals and what i think is a theremin. Music that confounds me this much is doing a good thing. www.aiorecords.com
TALBOT TAGORA- LESSONS IN THE WOODS OR THE CITY- HARDLY ART- This Seattle trio is young and inventive enough to try all kinda of tricks out in their 14 songs debut, I guess you could call this no wave as all three instruments (add a shriek of voice) crash the gates happily just to see what will happen. They are trying anything because no one told ‘em not to. Bet live they slaughter everything in their path. www.hardlyart.com
TEREU TEREU – ALL THAT KEEPS US TOGETHER- SELF RELEASED- Virginia kids doing rock that goes from cool n’ low key (opening tune “Perpetual Motion”) to anthemic and charging (“Beyond the Coast”). They even have a song called “Neal Cassady” and I really liked Ryan Little earnest vocals. www.tereutereu.com
THING-ONE- YOU’LL BE FINE- RHYTHM METHOD- One of the reviews on their myspace site described their music as “serious dancified landscaping.” I can’t do any better than that. www.myspace.com/thingone
TIMBER TIMBRE- S/T- ARTS & CRAFTS- This moody, minimal work is one guy, Taylor Kirk and he describes it as (gothic rockabilly blue” and that sounds about right. Think a less grizzled Tom Waits in experimental mode and you’ll be close. Could be a soundtrack for some twisted film, probably one I don’t want to see. www.arts-crafts.ca
TOWN & COUNTRY- MY BLUE HEAVEN- SELF RELEASED- Not to be confused with the Chicago band (who had records out on Thrill Jockey) this is a San Francisco bunch who do a pleasant mix of well-crafted pop (ala Elvis Costello) with a dash of alt country tossed in for good measure. “Variation On a Theme By Mo” has some creamy harmonies while “Daytime Emmy” added touches of early Wilco. These 7 tunes are well worth your hard-earned money. www.myspace.com/townandcountrysongs
JUSTIN TRAWICK- STARTING OVER- SELF RELEASED- It sounds like he’s from the deep South but this guy hails from the nation’s capitol but he’s obviously influenced by country tunes. These 5 tunes weren’t awful but to me it does sound generic plus his voice takes some getting used to and I never got used to it. www.justintrawick.com
DEREK WEBB- STOCKHOLM SYNDROME- INO- This is solo record #5 by Mr. Webb and while the mix of acoustic guitars and electronics had me thinking of a band like Trembling Blue Stars or Northern Picture Library this isn’t nearly that good. Don’t get me wrong, Webb has talent and plenty of followers and I can get into parts of S.S. but most leaves me bored. www.inorecords.com
YOUR GRACIOUS HOST- EASY RED- SELF RELEASED- This guy’s debut from last year was a double cd set and here he is with 11 more tunes. The band is basically one guy, Tom Curless (with very little help) and the songs are mid-tempo power pop. Nothing mind-blowing here but most of this is solid songwriting. My favorite here is “Blue Sky.” www.myspace.com/yourgracioushost
V/A- AT THE DIVE 1999-’02- DIRTY RIVER- The Dive was better known as Billy Ray’s and on this 24 song comp 12 bands offer up 2 songs each and you have the hardcore rage of 86ers to the more garage spew of Flip-Tops and Hunches. Other bands include Belligerents, Spicoli’s, The Neins, Straightjacket and plenty more.
