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May 2007 Reviews by

Aeroplane
Pageant*
Bang
Gang
Bears
Bitter
Old Bitties
Black
Rebel Motorcycle Club*
Black
Tie Revue
Blktop
Project
Cary
Brothers
Brothers
Martin*
Marc
Broussard
James
Chance & The Contortions
Conformists
Datarock
Dog
Day
Doors
Dumpster
Baby
Earthless
Enders
Room*
Familiar
Fun
God
Will Damn You
Goon
Moon
Great
Northern*

Kate
Havnevik
Bobby
Hebb
Darrin
James Band
Jimi
Hendrix
Joy
Electric*
June
Umbrella
Kite
Operations*
Living
In Hell
Lopside*
Loose
Salute
Magic
Bullets
Graig
Markel*
Marlboro
Chorus
Maserati
Mochipet
Montag
Abra
Moore
Morningbell*
Mother
Hips*
MUS*
The
Nappy Headed Hos
No
Big Deal
Nonloc

Orchard
of Comradery
Payment
Required
Port-Royal*
Pow.
Wow.
Puppy
Pops
Rasputina*
Ray's
Vast Basement
Retina.IT
Luther
Russell*
Seven
Storey Mountain
Sick
Puppies
Sons
Spain
vs. Mexico
Stafraenn
Hakon
John
P. Strohm
Stuff
Tenderhooks
Touchers
Laura
Veirs
Jonathan
Wilson
Winter
Sounds
Without
You
Zero
Hero Today

*Top
Picks

Additional Items Received

RATING SYSTEM:
= THE BEST OF THE GODDAMN
BEST
= EXCELLENT, THANK
YOU MS. MUFFIN
= VERY GOOD FRIED NOODLE, YES VERY
GOOD
= GOOD BOY, NOW
DOWN, GET DOWN NOW...
= FAIR IS HARDLY FAIR ANYMORE IN THIS
SHITTY WORLD
= SHITTY IS ABOUT AS SHITTY CAN BE, DEEDLE
DEE DEE...

Aeroplane Pageant - Wave to the Moon (Independently released CD, Progressive
pop)
Aeroplane Pageant is driven by the songwriting skills of Brian
Kelly but also includes Chris Anguis, Mike Areephituk, Tim
Watson, and Erik Deangelis. The band previously released an EP (He
Is Fire) that went over well with many critics and listeners. Wave to the
Moon features complex modern progressive pop that is sometimes reminiscent
of Lilys. Mr. Kelly has a cool, warbly voice that really makes these
tunes cook. The melodies weave all over the place...hardly the predictable
blubber that many modern pop bands are guilty of producing. Some of Brian's
melodies are absolutely out-of-this-world. Our guess is that this band will
probably be embraced first by college kids...then later accepted by members of
the general public. Smart and inventive cuts include "All the Days," "Wherever
September," "Ghost and the Ballerina," and "New Parade." Classy stuff. (Rating:
5++)

Bang Gang -
Something Wrong (CD, From
Nowhere, Progressive pop)
Only occasionally do we hear new bands from
Iceland...but when we do, they are usually intriguing and unusual to say the
least. Bang Gang is a project driven by Reykjavik's Bardi
Johannsson...an extraordinarily talented writer, producer, and
multi-instrumentalist. Previously only appreciated by fans in their own country,
the folks in Bang Gang are now the central focus of a lot of people in the music
business...mainly due to the fact that Ryko is now distributing their music in
the United States. (As a side note, From Nowhere is the first Icelandic label
ever to be nationally distributed here). Something Wrong features dreamy,
articulately arranged tracks that are somewhat epic in nature. Johannsson's
tunes are moody and unpredictable...and feature sweeping instrumental sections
that have a cool, breezy quality. Considering the cerebral, odd nature of this
album...it seems weird that the band would choose to include a cover of The
Supremes' "Stop In The Name of Love." But even more peculiar is the fact
that the track actually works (in many ways sounding as good or even better
than the original...!). With the release of this album, the folks in Bang
Gang immediately establish themselves as major contenders in the world of
twenty-first century progressive pop. (Rating: 5++)

Bears - Shortest
Day of the Year (Independently released CD EP, Pop)
A short EP with tunes
that are slightly reminiscent of The Hang Ups. Though this EP only offers
seven tunes, it will certainly serve to whet the appetites of the band's growing
legion of fans. "Those Years" and "Losing My Love" are without a doubt two of
the niftiest pop tunes we've heard thus far this year. Our only complaint is the
length of this disc. After hearing sixteen minutes...we really wanted to hear
more, more, more. Hopefully this will be followed up in the very near
future with a full-length album... (Rating: 5)

BITTER OLD
BITTIES

Pity the bitter old bitties
Because they are
bitter.
Give up on bitter old bitties
While you're on the
shitter.

(Rating: 1)

Black Rebel Motorcycle
Club - Baby 81 (CD, RCA, Pop/rock)
We've been into this
band's music in the past...but Baby 81 is a REAL knockout. Laced with
traces of Marc Bolan from start to finish, Baby 81 is a fuzzpop
masterpiece. The guys in Black Rebel Motorcycle Club were in the peculiar
position of being labeled way too hip and cool way too fast...and we were
worried that all the attention would go to these guys' heads. Apparently, at
least up to this point, that is not the case. Despite the fact that this
album features some super catchy tunes, it also packs a hearty punch. These guys
have it all...a killer rhythm section, great lyrics, mind bending guitars,
vocals drenched with attitude...and yet they seem to maintain creative control
despite the fact that they are on a major label. We'll certainly be blasting
this l'il sucker in our truck and MP3 player all spring long. Killer cuts
include "Took Out," "Windows" (a real standout track), "All You Do Is Talk,"
"Killing the Light," and "Am I Only." Highly recommended. (Rating:
5+++)

Black Tie Revue - Code Fun (CD, Gearhead, Pop)
Simple catchy
pop played with genuine enthusiasm. The guys in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's
Black Tie Revue have a sound that is decidedly unhip and
uncool...both of which are impressive in this little corner of the internet.
Instead of playing modern noise or (c)rap hop, these guys play hard power pop in
the same general vein as some of the best bands from the 1970s. The
appropriately-titled Code Fun is one great big danceable ball of catchy
fuzzpop. This 10 song mini-album is a great introduction to a band with a real
future ahead of 'em. The vocals sound superb. Pure feelgood tracks include "Red
Everywhere," "Call Waiting," "Too Much Thinking," and "Absent Radio." Ultra
positive pop with punch. (Rating: 5+)

Blktop Project - Blktop Project (CD EP, Galaxia,
Instrumental)
Blktop Project began in 2002 when skateboarders Ray
Barbee, Tommy Guerrero, and Matt Rodriguez went on a road trip
and began making music together (the band now also includes Doug Scharin
and Chuck Treece). This eight song CD features smooth, jazzy, almost
lounge-ish compositions that flow by like puffy clouds in the sky. Rather than
creating the abrasive (c)rap rock that many skateboarders are guilty of
producing, these fellows create music that is much more cerebral in
nature...sounding very much like a movie soundtrack. Our only complaint
here...is that this disc is only about 24 minutes in length. With this sort of
mood inducing stuff...it would have been far more effective if the disc were at
least an hour long. A minor point, however, as quality is always more important
than quantity in this fluffy office suite... (Rating: 4+++++)

Cary Brothers -
Who You Are (CD, Bluhammock, Soft pop)
Okay, so it
may not be the most original sounding album in the universe...but Cary
Brothers' smooth, pensive pop still sounds mighty damn good to us.
Who You Are is a collection of slick, polished, acoustic guitar driven
pop music featuring excellent vocals and arrangements that sometimes border on
orchestral. Cary's sound and style may be far too accessible for underground
fans...but there's a large audience that we'd bet will welcome this guy's music
with open arms. Although we're always impressed with super intelligent, creative
artists whose music is challenging and bizarre...there are times when all you
want is some easy pop to groove on. And there is plenty to groove on here.
Excellent songs include "Jealousy," "Honestly," "Loneliest Girl in the World,"
and "Precious Life." Our guess is that the ladies are really going to
love this guy... (Rating: 4++++++)

Brothers Martin -
Brothers Martin (CD, Tooth and
Nail, Pop)
What an intriguing surprise to receive this release. These
two ultra talented brothers have been writing and recording music for many
years...and now they finally collaborate on an album together. Ronnie
Martin is the man behind Joy Electric and Jason Martin is the
man behind Starflyer 59. Both bands have been babysue favorites
for years and years. So...what does Brothers Martin sound like...? Well,
we are pleased to report that it sounds very much like...a cross between Joy
Electric and Starflyer 59 (imagine that!). Songwriting duties are split
up evenly between the two with the first track ("Communication") being the only
joint writing endeavor. After hearing this...we can't help but wonder if this
project will continue or whether this is a one shot deal...? No matter. This is
like getting a new album by two of our favorite artists all rolled into one.
Jason and Ronnie's sounds merge together surprisingly well...making this yet
another remarkable collection of pop songs that we couldn't live without. Killer
cuts include "The Harsh Effects of Time," "The Missionary," "Opportunities," and
"Life on Strings." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)

Marc Broussard
- S.O.S.: Save Our Soul (Advance CD, Vanguard, Soul/pop)
Marc
Broussard's debut for Vanguard Records immediately recalls the music of
Stevie Wonder. As a result, some people may tend to dismiss Marc as a
copycat artist...but we don't subscribe to this theory. Actually and instead,
since Stevie isn't exactly churning out quality material like he used to, we
find Mr. Broussard's sound and style a refreshing reminder of how much we love
great soul/pop from the 1960s and 1970s. Broussard chose to cover the icons
here...Al Green, Staple Singers, Otis Redding, Marvin
Gaye, Bobby Womack, Allen Toussaint and more...and his
versions are in most cases as good or better than the originals. Folks who long
for the days when soul was the focus of most black artists are bound to fall in
love with this music. Sure we may have heard it all before...but when it's
delivered with this much integrity and style...it still sounds good.
(Rating: 5)

James Chance & The
Contortions - Soul Exorcism Redux (CD, ROIR, Funk/punk/jazz)
Remastered
reissue with three bonus tracks added for extra punch ("Disposable You #2," "I
Don't Want Nobody To Give Me Nothing," "Truth or Consequence"...all three taken
from a four-track recording session in 1987). This disc is a live recording of
the band playing in Rotterdam, Holland in 1980. Must've been a wild
night. This hot, blistering session features throbbing rhythms, James
Chance's raw and intense vocals, and some crazy instrumental improvisation.
While tons of artists are playing this style of music today, way back in the
early 1980s James Chance and his associates were treading new territory. The
band's music incorporates ingredients from rock, punk, modern jazz,
experimental, and progressive rock into one big bad nasty stew. On that fateful
night, the band consisted of Chance, Patrick Geoffrois, Fred
Wells, Lorenzo Wyche, Al McDowell, Richi Harrison, and
Anya Phillips. This is some pretty wild stuff. Provocative and intense.
(Rating: 5+)

Conformists -
Three Hundred (CD, 54
40 or Fight!, Progressive/experimental)
Peculiar stuff, even by our
standards. Conformists is neither a noise band nor a hard rock band nor a
punk band...nor is it completely experimental. Instead, the folks in this band
create music that is an odd congregation of elements from all of these and more.
One minute they're angry, the next moment pensive, then they sound almost jazzy,
then abrasive and noisy. The tracks on Three Hundred can best be
described as...schizophrenic. Perhaps our favorite segment of this album
is the beginning of "Black People"...which features the band playing their final
crash of the evening as the vocalist says "Thank you, thank you, thanks,
thank you very much, thank you..." And that is, of course, the
beginning of the song. Obviously these guys have a sense of humor, and at
times they are a total scream. This band is bound to lose almost all
listeners as they attempt to expand the boundaries of what music is and can be.
Although we find some of this to be rather amazing, we can only recommend it to
folks who are really, really far out mentally... (Rating:
5)

Datarock -
Datarock Datarock (CD, Nettwerk, Techno/pop/rock)
The two
fellows in Datarock have a sound that is reminiscent of artists like
The Frogs, Young Gods, Sex Pistols, and Kraftwerk.
Datarock Datarock is almost certain to elicit a variety of reactions from
listeners and reviewers. Datarock is the Norwegian duo consisting of Frederik
Saroea and Ketil Mosnes...two fellows who apparently aren't gay but
seem to enjoy singing about gay themes. The tunes on Datarock Datarock
are basic modern techno with punk rock aesthetics. The lyrics are particularly
inventive and humorous. The songs themselves...are somewhat of a hit and miss
affair. When these guys hit the target, they hit it dead on ("I Used To Dance
With My Daddy," "Princess," "Laurie"). But some of the tunes tend to be a bit on
the generic side ("Computer Camp Love," "See What I Care," "I Will Always
Remember You"). So...while this album may be a bit uneven, if you don't mind
skipping around a bit you will find some really great songs. This is a good
album...but the duo's next release could very well be a complete
knockout. (Rating: 4+++)

Dog Day -
Night Group (CD, Tomlab,
Pop)
We had to do a double take here...a pop group...on Germany's
obtuse Tomlab label...??? Strange but true, the folks in Dog Day
play accessible alternative pop music that is melodic and hummable. Our initial
reaction to this band was that...we didn't have much of an initial
reaction to this band. But fortunately we came upon this l'il sucker on a day
when we had some extra time to spare...and within a short amount of time we
found ourselves happily tapping our toesies to this group's simple, catchy,
feelgood music. This Canadian group plays modern progressive pop that is
slightly reminiscent of The Wedding Present with vocals that remind us of
Lou Reed's first solo album. Nifty keepers include "Lydia," "Oh Dead
Life," "Gayhorse," and "Bright Light." A cool, uplifting experience. (Rating:
5+)

DOORS

Here's the church and
Here's the steeple.
Open the
doors and see shitty
People.

(Rating: 1)

DUMPSTER BABY

Put your baby
In a dumpster and
Leave it
there.

(Rating: 1)

Earthless -
Rhythms From a Cosmic Sky (Advance CD-R, Tee Pee, Rock)
Most bands end
their concerts and albums with an intense jolt of chaotic noise...but that's how
these guys chose to begin this album. Earthless is the trio
consisting of Mario Rubalcaba, Mike Eginton, and Isaiah
Mitchell...three guys in San Diego, California who have a really big, thick
sound that combines elements of 1970s heavy metal with 1990s stoner rock. The
lead track ("Godspeed") is an exercise in excess. Instead of offering a nice,
catchy, radio friendly tune to begin their album, these fellows immediately
launch into a crazed hard rock free-for-all...this wild track lasts over 20
minutes and never lets up. The playing is intense and the guitars are truly
gripping. For folks who liked Black Sabbath or Fu Manchu but found
the songs too commercial and accessible...this may just be your favorite new cup
of tea. Noisy instrumentals that you won't soon forget. (Rating:
4+++++)

Enders Room
- Hotel Alba (CD, Tuition
Music, Progressive/jazz)
Johannes Enders has played saxophone
with some notable artists including The Notwist, Billy Hart, and
Roy Hargrove. Enders Room is Enders' own project in which he
records with no less than ten other musicians...and the results are indeed
impressive. Hotel Alba features twelve modern, funky, progressive tracks
that incorporate influences from all over the map. Some of these recordings are
slightly reminiscent of Britain's Grassy Knoll...except more jazzy in
nature. In addition to saxophone, Enders also plays flutes, clarinette, piano,
and klampfe and provides electronics, programming, and vocals. We are
particularly impressed with Johannes' vocals. He has a deep, smooth, subdued
voice that works perfectly with the style of music he records. While it isn't
likely that this album will yield any commercial hits (the music is too mature
and obtuse), critics and fans of musical undercurrents are bound to be wildly
enthusiastic about this disc. Groovy cuts include "Tiki Land," "Just Red and
Blue," "La La Bee," and "Morph 2." Super cool stuff. (Rating:
5++)

FAMILIAR

Your father is a liar.
Your mother is a bitch.
Your
brother is a faggot and
Your sister is a witch.

(Rating: 1)

FUN

She bludgeoned her husband
With a hammer.
She shot
all her children
With a gun.
She took her own life
With a carving
knife
Because she thought dying was
Fun.

(Rating: 1)

GOD WILL DAMN YOU

When you wish upon a star
God will damn you.
When you
do a good deed
God will damn you.
When you help those in need
God
will still damn you.
When you don't do anything at all
God will
continue to damn you
To infinity.

(Rating: 1)

Goon Moon
- Licker's Last Leg (CD, Ipecac, Pop)
Goon Moon is the
duo consisting of Chris Goss (Queens of the Stone Age, Masters
of Reality) and Jeordie White (previously known as Twiggy in
the band Marilyn Manson and also now a member of Nine Inch Nails).
Surprisingly, the tunes on Licker's Last Leg don't sound much like any of
these fellows' other bands. These tracks have much more in common with
androgynous popsters like Peter Murphy and David Bowie. If the
band's own tunes weren't an indication of where they are headed, then the
inclusion of an intriguing Bee Gees cover ("Every Christian Lion Hearted
Man Will Show You") is a dead giveaway. The thickly produced cuts on this album
are, for the most part, pure pop played with plenty of modern pizzazz and kick.
Goss and White write songs that are melodic and memorable...and the vocals are
particularly impressive throughout. Although fans of those other bands may be
confused by Last Leg...our guess is that these guys now stand to land an
entirely new fan base. Nifty tracks include "Apple Pie," "An Autumn That Came
Too Soon," "Tip Toe," and "Lay Down." (Rating: 5+)

Great Northern - Trading Twilight for Daylight (CD, Eenie Meenie, Progressive
pop)
There was no press release that accompanied this disc and we could find
no autobiographical information about this band on their web site so we can only
offer a pure reaction to the music we hear...which is actually a good thing in
cases like this. The folks in Great Northern offer smooth, thick, glossy
soft pop music that relies heavily on melodic harmony and heavenly arrangements.
While the tunes on Trading Twilight for Daylight are mainly soft and
subdued, some elements creep in that are usually reserved for hard rock bands
(crashing drums, loose guitars in overdrive). The combination of various
elements and sounds gives this band a moody and often unpredictable sound that
is inviting and occasionally peculiar. We're always a sucker for great
melodies...and great melodies are the strongest aspect of this band's work.
Driving rhythms...incredible vocals...and a wonderfully lush production...make
this album a purely delightful spin from start to finish. Killer tracks include
"Our Bleeding Hearts," "Home," "City of Sleep," and "The Middle." Recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)

Kate Havnevik -
Melankton (CD, Continentica, Pop)
Cool, dreamy, slick modern
progressive pop. The first thing that struck us about Kate Havnevik was
her voice. Man, what a voice this young lady has. Her vocals are so silky
smooth that on the first listen it is hard to notice anything else on this album
except for the vocals (!). After a couple of spins, however, you begin to
notice to precise arrangements and subtle nuances of the music itself. Although
probably too slickly produced for most underground music fans, we find the tunes
on Melankton to be beautifully intricate and hypnotic. In some ways,
various elements in Havnevik's music recalls other female artists like Kate
Bush (except less dramatic), Lisa Germano (except less dark and
depressing), and Yoko Ono (except more immediately accessible)...while
never really sounding too much like any of them. Some of the techno percussion
that creeps in from time to time seems a bit out of place...but overall, this is
a very soothing and satisfying collection of tunes from a lady who is bound to
make major waves in the musical world in the years ahead. (Rating:
5)

Bobby Hebb -
That's All I Wanna Know (CD,
This is the first commercially available
album of new material from Bobby Hebb since his 1970 album Love
Games. As a key point of reference, Hebb is the man who wrote and sang the
iconic hit "Sunny" (a new version is included on this disc). Although Hebb has
recorded material over the years, the music never made it to the surface for one
reason or another. That's All I Wanna Know features classy, classic
pop/soul tracks...some of which are covers and some of which Hebb either wrote
or co-wrote with others. Thankfully, Bobby and his crew opted to avoid
incorporating modern cliches into this album...resulting in an album with the
soul power of the 1970s combined with the super slick sound that modern studios
allow. Bobby's voice sounds great. He still sounds remarkable and powerful...and
his backing band is super tight. Spiffy cuts include "Different Strokes,"
"A Satisfied Mind," "We're Gonna Make It," "Cold Cold Heart," and "Love Love
Love." Let's all hope that this marks Bobby Hebb's permanent return to the world
of writing and recording... (Rating: 5+)

Darrin James Band - Thrones of Gold (CD, Bridge Street,
Pop/rock)
Genuine, good, simple Americana pop/rock in the same general vein
as artists like John Cougar, The Replacements, Leonard
Cohen, and Bob Dylan. Thrones of Gold is the debut album from
the Darrin James Band. Many folks are bound to be impressed at how
unpretentious this music is. Rather than jump on predictable bandwagons, James
and his bandmates play simple, classic guitar pop that could easily be
appreciated by millions of people. Darrin's songs are straightforward and
real...presenting thoughts and ideas that most people should be able to identify
with. If you're looking for the weirdest new underground band of the month, you
probably won't be impressed with this. But if you're in the market for some
good, hummable music that touches on real human topics...Thrones of Gold
just may end up being your favorite album of the year. Quality cuts include
"Trivial," "Thrones of Gold" (our favorite), "Had Enough of Me," and "In the
End." (Rating: 4+++++)

JIMI HENDRIX

Jimi Hendrix
Was cool
Because he
Took
drugs.
You be cool
Too.

(Rating: 1)

Joy
Electric - The Otherly Opus (CD, Tooth and Nail, Electronic
pop)
Ronnie Martin was, to the best of our knowledge, one of the first
pop singer/songwriters to bring the world of analog synthesizers back from the
grave. Because he was doing this in the 1990s before the onslaught of modern
bands emerged who now proudly rely on early analog sounds, Martin was largely
ignored by reviewers and listeners...most likely because his sound was so loopy
and unusual. Since he began his career, Martin has probably turned on about as
many people as he has turned on. His songs are probably too upbeat and infused
with too much Christianity for hipster underground listeners...while he's
probably a bit too strange for fans of commercial music. Even though it has
become a love-it-or-hate-it commodity...folks who love Joy Electric
really, really love it. And we are proud to be among the group of people
who appreciate the genuine sincerity and talent that goes into every Joy
Electric album. The Otherly Opus continues where previous albums left
off. The album is short (just over a half an hour in length) but once
again...Ronnie delivers. Catchy, smooth, heady pop tracks include
"Frivolity and Its Necessities," "Write Your Last Paragraph," and "A Glass to
Count All the Hours." Great stuff, highly recommended. (Rating:
5+++)

June Umbrella - June Umbrella (Independently released CD-R EP, Progressive
pop)
Very nice seven song EP from this up-and-coming four piece band from
Eugene, Oregon. These tracks are exceptionally mature and polished, particularly
when you consider the fact that the band recorded and produced these songs
themselves. June Umbrella is driven by the songwriting talents of
Brian Hall. This young fellow really knows how to turn a tune...and his
vocals are truly exceptional. Dreamy, textural arrangements add extra depth to
these ethereal pop tracks. We won't be surprised when the next June Umbrella
album ends up being released on one of the super hip underground labels in the
months ahead. Word is bound to spread quickly about this nifty little band
because their music has true substance. Top picks: "Van Gogh," "Harvest,"
"Icicles." (Rating: 5+)

Kite Operations - Heart Attacks, Back to Back (CD, K.O.A., Progressive pop)
Kite
Operations is, first and foremost, an artistic endeavor in which the
musicians are free to do whatever they please. The first track on this album ("I
Want To See") makes it perfectly clear that the individuals involved in this
project have little regard for commercial potential and mass appeal. The tune
begins with an extended meandering introduction before transforming into an
all-out rock tune...and then gradually melts away into a sea of overdriven
guitars. Beautiful stuff. Heart Attacks, Back to Back features the same
sort of heady, puzzling compositions that can be found on this band's previous
album (Dandelion Day). Unlike many artsy bands that use the recording
process as a diving board for pure experimentation, the folks in Kite Operations
always manage to include enough genuine substance in their tracks to ensure the
music holds up to many repeated spins. The more we hear from these folks...the
more impressed we are. If you're looking for easy, familiar music you
would best be advised to steer clear of this album. But if you're in the mood
for consciousness altering creativity...you will find a wealth of thought
provoking material to digest here. Peculiar, unpredictable, crazy tracks include
"Chimera," "Good Morning" (our favorite), "Comfort," "Killing/Afternoon," and "A
Day Outside." Truly nifty stuff. We're big fans of this band... (Rating:
5+++)

LIVING IN HELL

Corporate accountants,
Financial agents,
and
Attorneys are already dead
Because they are already living
In
Hell.

(Rating: 1)

Lopside - When
You're Finally Through Being Responsible (Independently released CD,
Electronic/instrumental)
What a great name for a band...not Lopsided...but
Lopside. Brilliant. And what an excellent album title. And not
only is the title the title...but when you break it up into individual words, it
also becomes the individual song titles. Some real creativity obviously
going on here. We've just been going through a phase in our lives in which we
have determined that being too responsible is just plain dull and boring. When
all you've got is a great band name and CD title, that isn't saying very
much...but when you happen to be Lopside...well then, you just happen to be
doing just about everything right. Although it isn't specifically stated
on the CD itself or the accompanying press release, our guess is that this is
the one man project consisting of D. Linds. Linds composes and records
thick, heady instrumentals that emphasize a thorough understanding of music
technology. The tracks on this lengthy album (over an hour's worth of music
here) are imaginative, spooky, funny, and thought provoking. So many one man
electronic bands on the planet...and yet very few who actually stand out from
the crowd. Lopside is sure one of these. Classy, impressive tracks include
"When," "You're," "Finally," "Through," and "Being." Recommended. (Rating:
5+++)

Loose Salute
- Tuned to Love (CD, Graveface, Pop)
Loose Salute
was formed after Mojave 3 drummer Ian McCutcheon overheard Lisa
Billion singing Bob Dylan songs while cooking at a rehearsal studio
(the band now also includes Charlotte King, Pete Greenwood, and
Alan Forrester). What will strike many folks is how strangely accessible
the tunes on Tuned to Love are. These soft, catchy songs could have
easily been radio hits in the 1970s and 1980s. Nowadays...who knows how
folks will react to this music...? Subdued, reflective, and simple...Loose
Salute songs have a light hippy sound that is somehow reminiscent of 1960s folk
music from London and San Francisco. While the band's sound is soft and
familiar...we're baffled in our attempts to describe the music. Exactly
who does this album sound like...? Harper's Bizarre...?
Fleetwood Mac...? Whatever it is, it's classic and timeless. Excellent
tracks include "Death Club," "The Mutineer," "Why'd We Fight," and "Cold Water."
There are some beautiful little gems on this one... (Rating: 5+)

Magic Bullets - A Child But in Life Yet a Doctor in Love (CD, Words On Music, Pop)
Magic
Bullets is a peculiar little band in San Francisco that plays pop that is
strangely out of place in today's musical climate. The band's unique sound is
due in large part to the odd, slightly strangled vocals of Philip Benson
(who sounds something like a cross between very early David Byrne and
Robert Smith). The band's guitar driven tunes are direct and
danceable...and yet there are peculiar elements in the music that are at times
almost indiscernible. What is most appealing about this album is the fact that
the band members don't seem to be copying the sound and style of other bands.
The musicians seem driven by their own innate desires to make their own kind of
music...and it shows. Clever pop ditties include "Yesterday's Seen Better
Days," "Heatstroke," "Circumstances," and "Spent Nights." Groovy stuff, played
with integrity... (Rating: 5)

Graig Markel -
Via Novella (CD, Sonic
Boom Recordings, Soft pop)
Graig Markel keeps the quality up
on this short but satisfying collection of tunes. On the first spin, one might
mistake Via Novella as just another batch of soft modern pop tunes. But
closer observation reveals the intricacies and nuances that make this album so
rewarding and fulfilling. Markel plays a whole slew of instruments (electric and
acoustic guitars, steel guitar, bass, keyboards, piano, vibraphone, etc.) and
has an impressive crew lending helping hands (Shea Bliss, Jeremiah
Green, Zera Marvel, Jeffrey McCallum, Jen Wood). This
album features eleven personal, moody compositions that are infused with tasty
reverb drenched guitars and subtle, heady arrangements. Graig has a cool
restrained voice that is immediately genuine and soothing. Packaged in a
beautiful diecut digipak sleeve...Via Novella is a wonderfully real
experience. Top picks: "Black Mesa," "Knives Drawn" (our favorite),
"Turpentine," "Silverlining." (Rating: 5+)

Marlboro Chorus - American Dreamers (CD, Future Appletree, Pop)
The
more we hear from the folks in Marlboro Chorus...the more impressed we
are. American Dreamers is, without a doubt, the band's strongest release
yet. This mini-album (lasting just over 30 minutes) features dazzling,
ultra-catchy guitar pop that is bound to put you in a great mood. B
Patric's tunes just keep getting better and better with every passing year.
This album contains some of the best pop songs we have heard thus far
this year . "Love Is In Love," "American Dreamers," and "What Your Mama Said"
(our top favorite...what a dynamite tune!) are just superb in every way
possible. Some of the tunes don't quite reach the peak of the best tracks...but
there's more than enough meat here to satisfy even the fussiest pop fanatic.
Considering the hit potential of some of these tracks, it seems incredible
that...at least at this point in time...Marlboro Chorus remains an underground
band. Let's all hope these folks receive the recognition they deserve this time
around... (Rating: 5++)

Maserati -
Inventions For the New Season (CD, Temporary Residence Ltd.,
Progressive)
The first new Maserati release in four years. The band
now consists of Matthew Cherry, Coley Dennis, newly recruited
drummer Gerhardt Fuchs, and Steven Scarborough. Inventions for
the New Seasons was recorded by Andy Baker at his home studio
in Athens, Georgia. The album features eight impressionistic tracks...all of
which are simultaneously hypnotic and slightly psychedelic. These guys combine
elements of drone music with modern electronics and guitar loops...to create
multi-faceted music that can be appreciated on several different levels. Only on
occasion is the full power of the band evident, as most of this music is
somewhat restrained and heady. At a time when most bands can easily be lopped
into a specific genre...the folks in Maserati are creating their own brand of
hard modern mood music. Nifty clippers include "Inventions," "Kalimera," "Show
Me the Season" (our favorite), and "The World Outside." Interesting stuff.
(Rating: 5)

Mochipet -
Girls Love Breakcore (CD, Daly City,
Experimental/electronic/progressive)
The first thing that caught our
attention about this disc was that it features babysue favorite
Twink on one track ("Toy Piano Core"). The second thing that caught our
attention was...the fact that this is one of the most over-the-top electronic
releases to come out this year. The person or persons known as Mochipet
butcher and mutate various musical forms on this wildly inventive album. Far
from being a solo endeavor, Mochipet involves a whole slew of other artists
here...Otto Von Schirach, Weasel Walter, Rotator, Aaron
Spectre, Doormouse, Paul Costuros, Tralphaz...names
that are probably only familiar to folks following the most serious
undercurrents of modern electronic pop. This music is so crazy that the only
thing most folks will be interested in...is how to make it stop. While we
were confused initially...the closer we listened, the more fascinating this
stuff got. Bizarre cuts include "Girls Don't Love Weird Voices?", "Tumbacore,"
"Wafflecore," "Weaselcore," "Hyphycore," and plenty more... WILDLY
NERVOUS STUFF. (Rating: 5)

Montag - Going
Places (CD, Carpark,
Electronic pop)
Soft, smooth, melodic electronic pop. Montreal, Canada's
Montag is the creation of Antoine Bedard. Bedard's third
full-length release features intelligent, well-produced pop featuring shifting
melodies and subtle shades of sound. Several of the tracks feature guest
vocalists (Anthony Gonzales, Amy Millan, Ghislain Poirier,
Ida Nilsen, Owen Pallett, Leah Abramson, Victoria
Legrand, Au Revoir Simone). Antoine's songs are, for the most part,
simple and straightforward...yet this fact is somewhat blurred due to the subtle
but heady psychedelic sounds that bleed in and out of the speakers. Many folks
would probably lump this album in the dream pop genre (which may be
appropriate)...but in our opinion this music is much smarter than that.
Puzzling, hummable pop tracks include "I Have Sound," "Alice," "Safe In Sound,"
and "Going Places." Nifty stuff. (Rating: 5)

Abra Moore - On
The Way (CD, Sarathan, Soft
pop)
Exceptionally effective smooth modern pop. After going through the
ordeals of being embraced by hoards and being signed to the Arista label,
Abra Moore opted to redirect her career. Released by the Seattle-based
independent label Sarathan, On The Way is a refreshing return to form.
Ms. Moore is apparently more interested in shaping her own career and honing her
craft than merely raking in the bucks. And that is fortunate indeed...because we
would hate to see a talent like this go to the dogs. Ms. Moore's music is an
intriguing hybrid that merges accessible, commercial pop with creative
arrangements and total artistic integrity. Her voice is mesmerizing...quite
obviously one of the best female vocalists of the twenty-first century. Though
these tunes may be too slickly produced for fans of the underground, On The
Way is most certainly a success in more ways than one. The songs are great,
the lyrics intelligent and insightful...and the overall sound is polished yet
genuine and sincere. Snappy cuts include "Into the Sunset," "Sorry," "Birthday
Song," and "No Turning Back." (Rating: 5+)

Morningbell - Through the Belly of the Sea (Independently released CD,
Progressive pop)
Smooth, melodic pop. The folks in Morningbell write
and record dreamy progressive pop that sounds something like a cross between
Alex Chilton and the softer side of Pink Floyd. The songs on
Through the Belly of the Sea don't fit in with general trends in
twenty-first century music. The songs certainly don't sound anything like
commercial crap...but they also have very little in common with the vast
majority of underground pop bands. We always admire bands and artists who follow
their own instinctual tendencies rather than following the crowd...and this is
most certainly the case with Morningbell. The band consists of Travis
Atria, Eric Atria, and Stacie Thrushman. Using traditional
instruments, these three individuals have managed to record twelve modern
classics that will surely stand the test of time. Top picks: "The Speed of God,"
"The Octopus Walks Across the Coral," Utopian Fantasy at the Center of the
Earth," "Sittin' On a Bubble." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)

Mother Hips -
Kiss the Crystal Flake (CD, Camera, Pop)
This is the first
new Mother Hips album since Green Hills of the Earth which was
released in 2001. Kiss the Crystal Flake marks both a return to form as
well as a slightly different direction for the band. Produced by Dylan
Magierek (the man who founded Badman Recording Co.), this album has a
thicker, more modern sound than previous releases. The songs are still upbeat
and hummable...but the instrumentation and arrangements are more mature and
progressive. Songs are what drew us to this band several years ago...and songs
are what make Crystal Flake such a rewarding spin. These tracks sound
slick and smooth without ever sounding overproduced...and the vocals are, as
usual, right on target. Our guess is that this album will please the bands
fans...while hopefully attracting an entirely new (and younger) audience. The
band consists of Tim Bluhm, Greg Loiacono, Paul Hoaglin,
and John Hofer. It would be great if this turned out to be the
breakthrough album for these guys. They've worked hard through the
years...always managing to provide quality recordings with heart and soul.
Killer cuts include "Mission in Vain," "Wicked Tree," "White Headphones," and
"This Bliss." Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)

MUS - La
Vida (CD, Green UFOs, Soft
pop)
If we weren't already in love with the band MUS (which we
were)...Darla's impeccably written press release would most likely have sold us
on this album. Prevous MUS discs were released by the folks at Spain's Acuarela
label, while La Vida is being made available by Green UFOs. La
Vida is a bit of a departure from previous MUS releases in that the music is
more accessible. While applauded by critics and underground fans, this band has
been largely ignored by the general public...possibly due to the fact that they
sing all of their songs in their native Asturian language. In recording this
album, the duo of Monica Vacas and Fran Gayo have apparently
decided that this will likely be the last MUS release. We can only hope that
this is not the case. La Vida is a beautiful, seductive, exotic
collection of intelligent soft pop tracks that are ultimately satisfying and
genuinely unique. Twelve dreamy, longing tracks that will surely stand the test
of time. Killer cuts include "Per Tierres Baxes," "Animas del Purgatoriu," "Les
Patinadores," and "Anada Pal Primer Mes." Highly recommended. (Rating:
6)

The Nappy Headed
Hos - Insecure Overly Sensitive Basketball Playing
Prostitutes With Dirty Stinking Hair (CD, Blendorama,
Folk/pop)
Freedom of speech...or freedom from speech...? The Nappy
Headed Hos intend to butcher everything in their paths with this, their
debut album. Inspired by recent controversy over whether or not people should be
allowed to speak freely, the Hos have a sound and style that is frantic and
mainly driven by dirty panty rings. When they're good they're good ("Ain't
Nobody Gonna Make Me Respect Whitey No Mo") and when they're
bad...well...they're actually pretty bad ("Flowers and Beef Stew Are
Mighty Good For You and Boo Boo Until Somebody Says Something Mean About My
Nasty Goddamn Hair"). We're not taking sides here...but The Nappy Headed Hos are
worthless insecure turds that just can't seem to get through the hoops of life
without whining their pussies off. (Rating: 1)

NO BIG DEAL

Global warming.
It's no big
Deal.

(Rating: 1)

Nonloc - Between
Hemispheres (CD, Strange
Attractors, Progressive)
Nonloc is the solo project consisting
of Mark Dwinell who is also the guitarist in the band Bright.
Dwinell's appreciation of Steve Reich and Terry Riley is obvious
in his music. The compositions on Between Hemispheres revolve around
repetitive rhythms and Robert Fripp-esque guitar loops. In addition to
layering acoustic and electric guitars, Mark also incorporates piano, accordion,
mandolin, and cello into his work. This twelve track album is subtle and
peculiar...sometimes folky, sometimes rather droney, and sometimes as heady as
modern classical music. Unlike many albums of this genre, the tracks do
not all sound the same. Each song incorporates a unique approach...and yet
the sum of the pieces is cohesive and solid. Dwinell's music doesn't easily fit
into specific categories...but rather exists in its own parallel universe.
Peculiar tracks include "Corpus Callosum," "The Golden Apple Pie," "A Popular
Tune," and "Two Dreams." (Rating: 5+)

Orchard of Comradery - The Company (CD, OOC
Music, Progressive pop)
Imagine a cross between Joy Electric,
Ghost Stories, and Nine Inch Nails...and you might begin to have
some idea of what Orchard of Comradery sounds like. This band is the
project created by the one-man-band consisting of Edward Davidson (who
also plays live with the British band Attrition). The Company is a
long album...clocking in at over 75 minutes in length. During the course of
these fifteen compositions, Davidson crafts some very precise, complex modern
progressive tunes that combine the dark with the light. His overall sound is
very different from what we normally hear from totally solo projects. Instead of
catchy, happy pop...this album features dark, serious progressive tracks that
range from soft and pensive to light industrial. A lot of time and thought was
obviously spent creating this album...and it shows. Odd, obtuse cuts include
"Ancient," "The Audition," "All I Need," and "Forever Gone." (Rating:
5)

PAYMENT REQUIRED

This man will dance with you if you
Pay him to dance
with you.
This man will take you on trips
If you will pay for the
trips.
This man will stay by your side forever
If you pay him to stay
by your side forever.

(Rating: 1)

Port-Royal -
Afraid to Dance (CD, Resonant,
Instrumental/progressive)
The second full-length release from Italy's
Port-Royal. These recordings practically define the term modern mood
music. Although the tracks on Afraid to Dance incorporate various
elements from rock, electronic, trance, classical, and experimental
music...there is really no easy, clearcut way of describing this band's sound.
These sweeping, cerebral, heady compositions are far-reaching in
scope...mentally absorbing...and thoroughly engaging from start to finish. And
unlike some music of this genre that is best played at minimal volume,
Port-Royal tunes sound better if you turn the volume way up. Some of the
tracks on this album remind us of some of the more inventive bands we heard on
the Planet Earth label in the mid 1990s. Although we can't adequately describe
the sounds we hear on this disc, one thing is certain. This band's music is
absolutely mind blowing and light years beyond the average modern day
instrumental outfit. Classic, spacey tracks include "Bahnhof Zoo," "German
Bigflies," "Internet Love," and "Attorney very Bad (Aka the Worst)" (what a
great title for a song). Intensely beautiful music for the discerning
listener. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5++++)

POW. WOW.

The gun went pow.
Wow.

(Rating: 1)

PUPPY POPS

Boil the puppy
Until the skin
Pops.

(Rating: 1)

Rasputina - Oh
Perilous World (CD, Filthy Bonnet Co., Progressive
pop)
Rasputina's Melora Creager created Oh Perilous
World from real life events in the media that have occurred over the past
couple of years. This is the band's sixth full-length release and, once again,
Ms. Creager and company continue to carve out their own unique niche in the
world of music. Many artists who get a taste of the limelight alter and adjust
their sound to appeal to a wider audience. Melora seemingly has no intention of
making such unattractive maladjustments to her career. The first Rasputina album
was originally embraced by a small yet passionate group of folks...and the same
will probably be true for Oh Perilous World. Once again combining the
past and the present, Creager effectively captures the more peculiar elements of
humanity in her music with precise dignity and poise. Rasputina tunes have
always been too complex, intelligent, and heady for the casual listener...and
this is most certainly the case with this album. Odd lyrics and obtuse modern
classical influences dive into the world of alternative rock...with bizarre and
often startling results. Striking compositions include "1816, The Year Without a
Summer," "Cage in a Cave," "Child Soldier Rebellion," and "The Pruning."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 6)

Ray's Vast Basement - Starvation Under Orange Trees (CD, Howell's Transmitter,
Pop)
Cool subdued modern progressive pop that sounds something like a modern
Leonard Cohen...if he was living and recording in Athens, Georgia. The
oddly titled Ray's Vast Basement is the project created by Jon
Benson that features a revolving cast of guest artists and musicians. This
album includes contributions from Nate Query (The Decemberists),
babysue favorite Michael Zapruder, Tim Cohen, and more.
Benson's tunes focus first and foremost on vocal melodies and lyrics. The tunes
on this album were originally written for the Actors Theatre (San Francisco)
production of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men. Benson and his
associates incorporate a wide variety of sounds and ideas into these tracks and
yet...the music never sounds busy or overproduced. This lovely fourteen track CD
features a wealth of solid tracks including "Salinas River Theme," "Danny's
Party," "Work Song," and "Palace Flophouse." Great stuff, executed to
perfection... (Rating: 5+)

Retina.IT -
Semeion (CD, Thick,
Electronic)
The folks at Hefty Records have a great ear for picking out some
of the most unusual and original electronic artists around...and they've
certainly hit the bull's eye again with Retina.IT. The band is the
duo consisting of Lino Monaco and Nicola Buono. Rather than create
club music or techno trash, these two individuals compose electronic music that
has its own unique flavor and sound. Simeion serves as an introduction to
Retina.IT. The CD features previously released and unreleased tracks...but due
to some rather precise mastering, as a whole the album flows very smoothly.
Monaco and Buono seem to draw their inspiration from various decades and
locales...making it difficult to describe the music. Elements of ambience,
techno, scratch, and cut-and-paste all find their way into these tracks. While
not for everyone, Semeion is certainly an acquired taste for a specific
eclectic audience. Uniquely crafted stuff. (Rating: 5+)

Luther Russell - Repair (CD, Adrenaline, Pop)
If you have become
disillusioned by the mounting seas of overproduced artists who are more
concerned with their hair and their clothing than their music...you may very
well fall in love with the music of Luther Russell. In a world
where so many folks try to hide the fact that their songs have little or no
substance, Luther's approach is refreshing and ultimately very real.
Although this is Russell's fourth album, it is apparently his first full blown
pop release (earlier discs featured either bare bones acoustic recordings or
instrumentals). This man is, first and foremost, a songwriter. Instead of using
arrangements and overdubs to mislead the listener, the sounds and instruments in
these tracks have one main purpose...which is to support the vocal melodies and
the songs themselves. Russell's style of songwriting is reminiscent of Alex
Chilton in many ways. His tunes are infused with reflective, personal lyrics
that are delivered with surprisingly genuine integrity. We'd be willing to bet
our britches that Repair will become a favorite underground classic in
the months and years ahead. Fantastic cuts include "Rise and Shine," "Everybody
Falls" (our favorite), "Blinking Star," "The Razor," and "Want You To Know."
Classic, classy pop. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)

Seven Storey
Mountain - At the Poles (CD, Thick, Hard rock)
Really great
gritty hard rock that emphasizes melody over volume. Frontman Lance
Lammer has an intensely killer voice and unique style of playing guitar that
is sometimes reminiscent of some of Bob Mould's songs from the late
1980s. Super loud harsh rock bands are a dime a dozen these days...and the
majority of them don't make any impression with their desire to blow everyone
away with bad attitude and loud noise. Perhaps that is why Seven Storey
Mountain is so appealing. The band concentrates first and foremost on songs,
structure, and vocal melodies. But don't think these folks are wimpy popsters
because nothing could be further from the truth. At the Poles is a rock
album...a very loud rock album...that just happens to have substance lurking
beneath the surface. This band's music may not be for everyone as it is probably
far too odd, angular, and aggressive for the casual listener. But folks looking
for something different in the world of intense rock will find a lot to love
here. Crazy tracks include "So Cursed," "Sinking In," "Bad Day," and "Tunnel
Vision." Great stuff that really rocks. (Rating: 5+)

Sick Puppies -
Dressed Up As Life (CD, Virgin, Pop/rock)
We don't mind
admitting that we generally tire very easily of bands with a sound similar to
Australian's Sick Puppies. There are millions of generic modern
thrash/pop bands in the world and most of them are so interchangeable that it
becomes virtually impossible to tell one from the next. So...what makes these
guys different...? Good melodies first of all... And secondly...some very
punchy and smart arrangements. So many modern rock bands play at one
constant loud pace...making each song sound just like the one before it. The
guys in Sick Puppies are not guilty of this. Their music is smart and
involved...chock full of plenty of stops and starts and cool, crunchy guitar
riffs. Dressed Up As Life features twelve cool tracks including "World,"
"What Are You Looking For," "Issues," and "The Bottom." (Rating:
5)

Sons -
Viracochas (CD EP, Fractured
Discs, Rock/pop)
This EP is reminiscent of some of the more peculiar
acid-drenched pop bands from the 1990s. Sons is driven by the songwriting
talents of Scott Endres and William "Josh" Bratcher. These two
fellows and their associates produce reverb drenched pop music that is swimming
and swirling in a sea of effects. The tunes on Viracochas are melodic and
structured...but the proceedings get downright strange due to the amount of echo
and reverb present. The odd overall sound may turn some folks off...but when you
consider the sound these folks are striving for, the idea works surprisingly
well. The seven tunes on this EP range from spooky psychedelia to almost normal
rock. If you like your pop peppered with plenty of mental elements...you are
likely to find a lot to love here. This thick sea of swarming sounds includes
"Wax Museum," "F Train," "Gigolo Aunt," and "Cielo." (Rating:
4+++++)

SPAIN VS. MEXICO

Spain is
Fantastic.
Mexico is
Shit.

(Rating: 1)

Stafraenn Hakon - Gummi (CD, Resonant,
Progressive)
Stafraenn Hakon is Olafur Josephsson...an
underground recording artist who resides in Iceland. Gummi presents nine
atmospheric tracks...some of which are instrumentals while others feature soft,
subdued vocals. Some of Josephsson's tunes recall the music of his label mates
Port-Royal...while others are more direct and almost pop oriented. Olafur
is a master arranger...obviously spending a great deal of time tweaking his
music until it sounds exactly the way he intends it to sound. This is his fourth
release on the Resonant label...a stunning collection of intelligent
compositions clocking in at just over an hour in length. While he plays most of
the instruments, Josephsson also has plenty of help on this album from no less
than eleven associates. These thick progressive tracks are extremely lush and
produced to perfection. Imaginative and rewarding music packaged in a stunning
cardboard wallet sleeve... (Rating: 5)

John P. Strohm - Everyday Life (Advance CD, Superphonic, Pop)
We've
been fans of John P. Strohm ever since we were first turned onto his
music in the 1990s. In addition to releasing solo albums, Strohm was also
previously a member of Blake Babies and Antenna and played in
The Lemonheads. The appropriately titled Everyday Life marks the
return of John's solo career. The album features the same style of catchy guitar
pop that originally made Strohm a favorite among critics. Although he has always
been treading in the undercurrents, John's music remains surprisingly
accessible. Everyday Life just may be his most commercial sounding
endeavor yet. These tracks seamlessly combine elements of pure pop with
Americana...providing plenty of smooth effervescent pop that should appeal to a
wide range of listeners. Drew Glacken and Konrad Meissner (rhythm
section for The Silos) provide the perfect foundation for these upbeat
tunes. Cool pop tracks include "Sha La," "Waiting for the World to End," "The
Long So Long," and "Another Losing Season." A direct hit. (Rating:
5+)

STUFF

The world is
Full of stuff and
None of it
means
Anything.

(Rating: 1)

Tenderhooks -
Vidalia (CD, Rock
Snob, Pop)
Our first reaction to Knoxville, Tennessee's
Tenderhooks was that we really liked the female vocalist. That was
until...we realized that the lead vocalist is a guy (!). Vidalia
reminds us in many ways of the Massachusetts pop band Claudia Malibu.
These folks play the same sort of genuine, melodic, feelgood guitar pop.
Tenderhooks tunes harken back to the days of 1970s pop/rock when bands
concentrated more on song structures, vocal melodies, and lyrics than ultra
complex digitally enhanced arrangements. This short little mini-album lasts just
over 30 minutes but in that amount of time these folks clearly prove that they
are a real force to be reckoned with. Delightfully catchy cuts include "Kid
Stuff" (an incredible tune), "Mouthful of Rain," and "Armchair
Pharmacist." (Rating: 5)

Touchers - The
Underwater Fascist (Independently released CD, Rock)
The guys in
Touchers represent the seedy underside of ski resort towns like Bozeman,
Montana. While yuppy visitors are slipping down the slopes in their overpriced
retard gear, these guys tuck themselves away in the background and play
absolutely rip-roaring abrasive rock music (most likely to vent their
frustrations about the yuppy visitors who are slipping down the slopes in their
overpriced retard gear). The Underwater Fascist works. This self-recorded
album succeeds because of the inherent sincerity of the delivery. Instead of
trying to sound like the latest hipster band or drown their instruments and
vocals in effects, these guys play like hell and just let the machine capture
their sincere harsh energy. Fast, loose, and slightly trashy...these tracks are
refreshingly effective. Top picks: "Aphrodite Has Gone Mad," "Country Killer,"
"77," "Fire When Ready." (We absolutely love the ad featuring sea monkeys who
have been transformed into underwater fascists.) (Rating: 5)

Laura Veirs
- Saltbreakers (CD, Nonesuch, Pop)
Laura Veirs
writes and records smooth, intelligent pop music that should appeal equally to
average mom and pop listeners and fans of the underground currents. While smooth
and melodic and accessible, her songs are different enough to engage listeners
who are wanting more than just the usual fluffy pop. Like so many people, Veirs
recently made the move from Seattle to Portland. The emotional ups and downs of
this transitional period in her life are documented in this, her third album for
the Nonesuch label. More than any other artist, Laura's music recalls the
musical, lyrical, and vocal stylings of Suzanne Vega. Her tunes feature
honest and sincere observations in her life. While Saltbreakers features
mainly pensive soft pop, on occasion Laura can release her more aggressive side
("Phantom Mountain"). Unlike most commercial artists, Laura Veirs presents
catchy, smooth music with substance. This album effectively captures the genuine
and sincere nature of her personality. Cool cuts include "Pink Light," "Drink
Deep," "Black Butterfly" (our favorite), and "Wrecking." Intriguing. (Rating:
5+)

Jonathan Wilson - Frankie Ray (Advance CD, Koch, Soft pop/rock)
Cool soft
folkie pop delivered with honesty and style. Ex-Muscadine member
Jonathan Wilson originally released Frankie Ray on his own Pretty
and Black label. The album created such a buzz that it was picked up and
re-released by the folks at Koch. Wilson's music is free-flowing smooth folk/pop
with a heavy emphasis on lyrics. There are plenty of beautiful melodies on this
album...all caressed in articulate arrangements and featuring Jonathan's
soothing, subdued voice. One word of warning. In order to enjoy and appreciate
this album, you must be in the right frame of mind. If you're in the mood
for upbeat pop, you won't find it here. Wilson's music is subtle and often times
odd...evoking definite moods in the minds of his listeners. Cool classy cuts
include "Your Ears Are Burning," "Alabaster Dove," "You Can Have Me," and
"Dreaming." (Rating: 4+++++)

Winter Sounds - Porcelain Empire (CD, Livewire Recordings,
Pop)
Another intriguing pop band from Athens, Georgia. The folks in Winter
Sounds create smooth, melodic music that is reminiscent of XTC's pop
recordings from the 1990s. Porcelain Empire is the band's debut
album...and it is chock full of stunning, cerebral, smart pop. These folks seem
to be on the fast path to success. They were signed to Livewire Recordings in
December 2006 and managed to record this album in the first two months of 2007.
Although the actual release date is June 26, 2007, the band is doing a good bit
of touring in advance of the album's release. Our guess is that based on
positive word-of-mouth, the folks in Winter Sounds will already have a solid fan
base before their album is even released. The vocals are...truly exceptional.
Classy tracks include "Windy City Nights," "Sound Forged Like Spine,"
"Oblivion," and "The Tournament of Getting Older." (Rating: 5)

WITHOUT YOU

I used to think
I couldn't live without you.
Now I
know I'm
Better off
Without you.

(Rating: 1)

ZERO HERO TODAY

When everyone
Is hero today
No one
Is hero
today.

(Rating: 1)

Additional Items
Received:

1000 Miles From Home - Collusion
1888 - Honey,
i'd kill...
2Adam12 - 2Adam12
Abe Lincoln Story - Kings of the soul punk
swing
American Catastrophe - American Catastrophe
Andy the Door Bum - Mt.
holly sessions
John Ashfield - Love is blue
Band Marino - The sea and the
beast
Bastard Fairies - Memento mori
John Beach - Scenes of abandoned
industry
Bees and the Birds - Bees and the Birds
Christopher Blue - Room
tones
Bottom of the Hudson - Fantastic hawk
Bowmans - Far from home
Boy
In Static - Violet
Brokedowns - New brains for everyone
Corey Brown and
the 11:11's - Time is now EP
Cat-A-Tac - Past lies and former lives
Child
Bite / Stationary Odyssey - Physical education
Chow Nasty - Super
(electrical) recordings
Chris and Joylene Show - Pupa's window: a family
portrait
Cola Wars - Red flag day
Gerald Collier - How can there be
another day?
Comas - Spells
Cringe - Tipping point
Rob Crow - I hate
you, rob crow
Johnny Cuomo - American idle
Dandeikon - Spidermnnofferings
(sorry, couldn't READ it!!!)
Death of Jason Brody - Death of Jason
Brody
J. DiMenna - Hf he could speak now
Alexa Dolan - Americana
Dub
Trio - Cool out and coexist
Paul Duncan - Above the trees
Dying
Californian - Coarsegold
Eastern Conference Champions - Away
Eastern
Conference Champions - Home away
Eggshell Egoz - Funky poetz
Electric Soft
Parade - No need to be downhearted
Empire 44 - Rise
Feature Presentation -
Limited edition
Fishbone - Still stuck in your throat
Five2 - Sweet
end
Foreign Elfest - Blue dirt / red carpet
Bob Frank and John Murry -
World without end
Fussy Bloody Tippy Toppy Carcass - Have a pretty thing in
your blister snack
Ground Components - An eye for a brow, a tooth for a
pick
Brian Grosz - Bedlam nights
Hallelujah the Hills - Collective
psychosis begone
Headquarters - O and O
David Hillman - Americana
hour
I Am The Pilot - Crashing into consciousness
Jim Jacobi - Tryin' to
stay positive
Johnbenders - Johnbenders
Johnny and the Moon - Johnny and
the Moon
Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers - Glassjaw boxer
Terry Kitchen -
Heaven here on earth
Avril Lavigne - The best damn thing
Limbeck -
Limbeck
Limits - Good songs...bad hair: 80's video collection
Little Aida
- Mad country
Lovelights - Problems and solutions
Keith LuBrant -
Searching for signal
Mad Juana - Acoustic voodoo
Mooney Suzuki - Have
mercy
Moontagu - Written in stone
Morning State - Retreat
Mustangs and
Madras - La LeChuza
Myself - myself
Casey Neill - Brooklyn bridge
Neon
Horse - Neon Horse
New Years Day - My dear
Tiffany Nicole - Just a
girl
Octoberman - These trails are old and new
Only Children - Keeper of
youth
Ono - Open your box
Oxblood - first blood
Parish Festival -
Handshakes and heartaches
Parker Longbough - Commander comatose
Patsys -
Have you got soul?
Patsys Both sides never
Plants - Photosynthesis
Plok
- You tie a rock to yoru leg cuz it fits you
Praxis - Tennessee
2004
Reality Serum - Hop in
Condoleezza Rice - Reddy tuh kleen duh
terlitt, massuh
Rumskib - Rumbskib
Graham Russell - The future
Nitin
Sawhney - In the mind of...
Zoe Scott - Beautiful to be alive
Scott &
Aimee - Sitting in a tree
Sea Wolf - Get to the river bevore it runs too
low
Self-Evident - Self-Evident
David Shultz and the Skyline - Sinner's
gold
Skidmore Fountain - Break
Sound the Alarm - Sound the
Alarm
Speaker Speaker - We won't march
Spraydog - Karate summer camp
ST
- People i barley know
Stillpoint - Bleed every note
Strata - Strata
presents the end of the world
Sunspot - Neanderthal
Dan Susnara -
Bicuspids
Sheila Swift - The shape of things
Fred Thomas - Sink like a
symphony
Tiger Saw - Tigers on fire
Trembling Blue Stars - The last holy
writer
Tunes N Tones - The rolling stone effect
Ugly Beats - Take a stand
with the ugly beats
Unseen Guest - Out there
Various Artists - American
Bhangra
Various Artists - Bob Dylan uncovered
Velcro Stars - Hiroshima's
revenge
Vertigo Butterfly - 1932
Eric Victorino - Coma therapy
VNV
Nation - Judgement
Von Robinson and His Own Universe - Jostle it
Vulture
Whale - Vulture Whale
We Is Shore Dedicated - We Is Shore Dedicated
Wooden
Wand - James and the quiet ecstatic peace
Holly Wood - Kill

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