All it takes is 3 chords and a dream!

Monday, May 31, 2010

Nora Jane Struthers - Nora Jane Struthers


Nora Jane Struthers - Nora Jane Struthers
2010, Blue Pig Music


A born Jersey girl (but nothing like the currently popular caricature), Nora Jane Struthers could yodel before she could talk. Growing up in a house where music was a part of everyday life, Struthers was playing bluegrass music duo with her father by the time she was a teenager. Struthers travelled the East Coast as teen, attending bluegrass festivals and fiddlers conventions, falling in love with traditional music along the way. Now on her own and living in Nashville, Struthers will release her solo debut album, Nora Jane Struthers, on June 22, 2010. Coming on the heels of a top-ten finalist placing at the 2009 Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and 1st placement in the neo-traditional category at the 2009 at the Appalachian String Band Festival, Struthers carries a great deal of momentum into her debut album.

Struthers opens with "Willie", which starts out as if an idyllic love song but turns sour on an unaccepted proposal. The song turns to tragedy quickly, and does so in stark yet poetic terms. "Mockingbird" is a classic story song steeped in allegory, not to mention some of the best instrumental work Nashville has to offer. Struthers is no slouch either; you could imagine her voice coming right out of the Grand Ol' Opry a generation or two ago like she'd been there all along. "Look Out On The Mountain" is a dark tale where a mother reassures a child on the whereabouts of her Daddy, although it's unclear where mama believes a word, and in the end that doubt proves correct. The song is wonderful textured with conflicting emotions and dark undertones.

Struthers details the downfall of the Blue Ridge Mountains in "The Blight". The story is told from the standpoint of someone who played among those trees in her youth; and in spite of any recovery that's been made the Mountains, and the lives of those who live there, will never be the same. With "Evelyn", Struthers tells the story of a hard working man and his former socialite wife back in colonial days. The song is told from the perspective of the man who sees how coming west with him and the hardships they've lived through has drained her of who she once was. It's a somewhat sorrowful yet practical tune, charming in its honesty.

Struthers lets go with a classic cowgirl song in the form of "Cowgirl Yodel #3", sounding like a mix of country and vaudeville in the process. The violin and accordion play here are nothing short of amazing, and the arrangement in general is inspired. "Build You A House" is a proposal in song from a man who has nothing to offer except his name and the work of his hands. He tells her how beautiful she is and how he knows there are others out there who can offer her more, but is brave enough to ask for her hand anyway. Struthers seems to have a talent for writing/selecting these anachronistic love songs that perhaps don't fit today's standard for romance, but were likely the height of it in another era. This is a brilliant tune, and Struthers' reading of it is nothing less.

"One Notch Tighter" sounds like it may have been a depression-era tune, but is perhaps apropos for today as well. It's about doing the things you need to do to get through hard times. The musicianship here is exquisite, and the song is something of an anthem for self-reliance. Struthers closes with "Say Darlin' Say", yet another love song involving a proposal, but this time perhaps from a less desirable sort. It's a pretty tune, particularly once the vocal harmonies kick in; a solid closer.

Nora Jane Struthers brings a classic country voice and a deft touch to the dozen songs presented on Nora Jane Struthers. It's a traditional country album in the strictest terms. You won't hear any of these songs on commercial country radio, but the roots crowd should embrace Struthers with great enthusiasm. The album is highly entertaining, and Struthers herself will charm your socks off with a voice that's pure gold.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)
Learn more about Nora Jane Struthers at http://www.norajanestruthers.com/ or www.myspace.com/norajanestruthers. Nora Jane Struthers drops on June 22, 2010. You can preorder the CD from Amazon. Expect wide availability on both CD and as a download.

Amberlee Sheehan - Old Love Letter


Amberlee Sheehan - Old Love Letter
2010, Amberlee Sheehan/BMI

Chicago’s Amberlee Sheehan recalls a more primitive time in country music, when it was more about the music and the personality behind it than the image projected by marketing companies. Sheehan dwells in the musical valley between old-time Nashville and Appalachia on her debut album, Old Love Letter, with songs of loves won and lost and the sometimes unsteady truces that lay between. In the process Sheehan touches on rockabilly and the Sun Records sounds, with a voice that's anachronistic but refreshingly real. Sheehan will win you with a vitality that's infectious even as she struggles at times on the slower material.

Old Lover Letter opens with "Sleep Baby", a sweet love song about an ideal love and the moments of peace found in the arms of the right person. "Old Love Letter" is a song about love and how it cools over time. Sheehan shows the effects of one who doesn't feel the same level of attention as she once knew and looks longingly back to a time when love ran hot. Sheehan pays tribute to her father with "A Good Man", done in a timeless story-telling style. Sheehan imbues the song with a great melody and a solid, comfortable arrangement.

Sheehan brings to mind Kitty Wells with "Reason To Sing", a great country love song with real pop sensibility. Sheehan struggles with some of the slower material on the album, ("January Morning", "Whole Again", "My Heart Of Blue"), but excels on "A Bird In The Sun". It's a song of picking up the pieces and moving on and sounds like a classic country heartbreaker. Sheehan breaks out of her country roots with the angry, Neil Young-esque rocker "I'm Still Here", in which she berates the man who left her behind. "I'm Still Here" is a pleasant surprise, even if it's clear that Sheehan doesn't have (or didn't think to use) the big powerful voice the song calls for. Sheehan's sound is a bit more lyric, while this tune calls for at least a dose of Joplin/Etheridge grit. Old Love Letter closes with "Clear Blue Sky", a song of hope built around a great melody. This may be the best songwriting on the disc, but the song is not well-produced. Sheehan's voice is too buried inside the instrumentation and has a tinny quality that is perhaps meant to sound antiquated but really doesn't do justice to Sheehan or the song. It would be interesting to hear this song re-recorded as the production keeps it from reaching its full potential.

Amberlee Sheehan goes for an organic sound on Old Love Letter, mostly eschewing recording tricks for a folksy, unvarnished sound that serves her well. Old Love Letter was the project of a lifetime for Sheehan, and is a definite accomplishment, particularly as a recording debut. If you're tired of all the polish and gloss in modern country music, then Amberlee Sheehan will be a welcome breath of fresh air. Sheehan's only going to get better. With Old Love Letter she'll sneak up on you. You'll fall for the album a bit more each time you listen to it.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Amberlee Sheehan at www.myspace.com/amberleesheehan. Old Love Letter is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

The Flutterbies featuring Maureen Davis - The Flutterbies


The Flutterbies featuring Maureen Davis - The Flutterbies
2009, Toaster Child Music

A Broadway diva goes country? Yes, it’s true. Maureen Davis may be the vocalist for one of the hottest alt-country bands on the Los Angeles scene, but she got her first big exposure in show business in the role of Sleeping Beauty in the original Broadway Cast of Stephen Sondheim’s Into The Woods. Davis has a voice that can go from sweet to gritty and back faster than a Lamborghini doing 0-60, but it’s the nuance she’s capable of that will knock you over. Not to be upstaged, The Flutterbies are an amazing back band, playing together as if they were one organism rather than individual players. In short, this is a band you need to hear. Luckily, The Flutterbies released their debut EP last year, coincidentally entitled The Flutterbies.

The Flutterbies opens with "Louder Louder", a blues-crusted rocker with a bit of punk-a-billy attitude that will make you want to slam dance the cowboy standing next to you. Vocalist Maureen Davis is personality-plus with her rocker-girl mystique and sultry voice. The Flutterbies are as tight as can be at Davis' back, matching her step for step through the raucous tune. "Hummingbird Heart" is a tremendous statement of vulnerability for a heartsick soul who continually is hurt by love but continues to be held in its gravity like a moth drawn to a back porch light. It's a wonderfully low-key follow-up to the wild opening number and says more about The Flutterbies' (and particularly) Davis' depth as performers. The song has been adopted by gettoknowusfirst.org, an organization working to repeal California’s Proposition 8.

"How I Get Over You" is a big, messy blues-rock tune that finds Davis getting over her poison by taking it again and again. It's a swanky tune with a familiar premise, but it plays like a new idea in the capable hands of The Flutterbies. "Faith In Rain" is a quiet moment of introspection laced with a mournful pedal steel guitar that serves as the perfect complement to Davis' voice. Don't be surprised if this tune is picked up by other artists down the line as a cover tune. It's a great piece of songwriting. "Kill Him With Kisses" is a song of love and obsession, built on one of the swankiest blues-rock arrangements you're likely to come across. The Flutterbies closes with "Damn Glad", a pensive tune about getting out of a bad situation, and the hope for new things that grows out of leaving behind the things that do not work.

The phrase "a breath of fresh air" is pure cliché, and yet occasionally an act comes along where as a reviewer I get to use that phrase with no pretense. The Flutterbies featuring Maureen Davis is one such act. The Flutterbies is a powerful and moving EP that marks the coming out of Maureen Davis, with a voice that can shatter glass one moment and melt hearts the next, all without missing a beat. Add to that an impressive and cohesive band behind her, and The Flutterbies show real potential for long-term success. The Flutterbies is an EP you'll still be pulling out to listen to ten years from now.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about The Flutterbies featuring Maureen Davis at http://www.theflutterbies.com/ or www.myspace.com/theflutterbies. The Flutterbies is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com. Digital copies are also available through iTunes.

Danika Holmes - Second Chances


Danika Holmes - Second Chances
2010, Dream Big Publishing


Danika Holmes grew up in Eastern Iowa with music on the brain. As part of a close-knit family, Holmes grew up playing piano and singing show tunes, spending much of her youth involved in the arts. High school and college beckoned, and Holmes turned her focus to academic pursuits. On the brink of completed her Ph.D., Holmes suffered two major personal tragedies that led her to re-evaluate her direction. In her darkest hour she turned back to music. Working with a longtime family friend, Holmes began crafting songs for her debut album, Second Chances. It’s a highly personal first step on a path with a lot of potential.

Second Chances is full of hits and misses. At her best, Holmes is charming and energetic. She starts out tentatively with "Half As Strong As You", picking things up a bit on the chorus, but not making the best first impression. "Unlit Match" finds Holmes warming up nicely with a strong, bluesy folk/rocker about potential. It's a highly enjoyable tune that perhaps would have been a more suitable lead track. Second Chances stays mired in middling songs for a bit until Holmes stumbles into "If You Love Me, Just Say It". Here Holmes is full of life, with a catchy folk tune with real pop sensibility. "Pockets Full Of Gold" is a wonderful tune about not being distracted by money and the ways of the world. Here love reigns as the most important thing amidst difficult economic times; implying love will carry them through anything. Things fizzle on the title track, and turn amateurish on "Dear Friends", a well-meant but awkward ode to friends and family that likely would have been better suited to the liner notes of the album.

Danika Holmes spins some bright moments in song on Second Chances, but much of the album is too mundane to gain much attention, and a couple of the songs presented here are simply specimens too rough for public consumption. Holmes' looks like an all-American girl, and her voice has its charms. I suspect with time the rough edges will wear out of her songwriting, as she shows the potential to do more at times on Second Chances. Danika Holmes may just be one to watch.

Rating: 2 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Danika Holmes at http://www.danikaholmes.com/ or www.myspace.com/danikaholmes. Second Chances is available as either a CD or Download from CDBaby. Digital copies are also available via iTunes.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Mark Radcliffe - The Sea Before Us


Mark Radcliffe - The Sea Before Us
2009 Mark Radcliffe/Denzer Productions

Mark Radcliffe didn’t follow the usual path to becoming a singer/songwriter. He didn’t even pick up a guitar until he was 17; he spent much of his Maine childhood playing sports instead. Even then, the guitar was more of a hobby than a calling. Radcliffe spent ten years between stings as a teacher and traveling writer. These experiences allowed Radcliffe to finally enter the singer/songwriter stage of his life more seasoned than your typical wannabe pop star. This might explain the smooth, wizened feel of the songs on The Sea Before Us, Radcliffe’s sophomore album. With nods to acts like The Eagles and Jackson Browne, Radcliffe spins tails of love and loss in easy, cultured pop arrangements that are hard not to like.

The Sea Before Us opens with the easy strains of "In The Sun", a gentle daydream of a song about escaping the things that trouble you. It's a solid arrangement that's easy on the ears. "Other Side Of The Pillow" is a rueful lamentation on love lost. It carries with it a tune that will stick out in your mind. "Blow It All Away" is a catchy tune about tending what you have (because you never know when it could be stripped away). It's a solid premise and well-delivered with touches of light pop and singer/songwriter pastiche.

"Miss Hard To Forget" is pure pop gold; a song about chance meetings that happen in line that often result in a smile but nothing more. Radcliffe imagines what would happen if he actually ventured forth for more than that smile. It's an entertaining tune that will wrap itself up inside your mind and not leave for days. "One Foot Out The Door" bemoans a relationship where one partner isn't fully invested; a decent light pop tune that's a little bit deeper than your typical "this relationship isn't working" song.

"Breaking Up The Band" is the document of a watershed moment in life: the moment when you realize it's okay to let go of your current association(s) and look for something new. This song is put in the context of a band, but could easily be a metaphor for a relationship. Solid pop songwriting lies at the base of this tune, with great hooks and an upbeat chorus that stays with you. Radcliffe winds up The Sea Before Us with "No Time To Lose", a song about the small chances we can take that make huge differences in our lives. In this case the protagonist sees a beautiful girl every day on the train, and after many close encounters makes an attempt to reach out. It's not a happy ever after song; the most that we learn is that they're having dinner, but the song exhorts listeners to take chances; to reach out, because you never know what will happen.

The Sea Before Us is intriguing. Mark Radcliffe invests a lot of positive energy in the album, but it doesn't become the sort of hokey posi-pop that you see pushed by some artists. Radcliffe writes intelligent, nuanced pop songs that range from mellow story-songs to reserved rockers you can just about dance to. Radcliffe's sense of melody and composition are both highly developed, and he's able to express himself in lyrics that are both poetic and accessible. The Sea Before Us is a very solid listening experience.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Mark Radcliffe at http://www.markradcliffe.net/ or www.myspace.com/markradcliffe. The Sea Before Us is available as either a CD or Download from CDBaby. Digital copies are also available through iTunes.

The Loomers - Reeling Down A Road


The Loomers - Reeling Down A Road
2010, Sidewinder Publishing


Boston’s The Loomers have been making music for sixteen years now, performing the songs of singer/songwriter/vocalist Jon Svetkey. Over the years, The Loomers have won the Jury Prize at Berklee School Of Music’s Battle Of The Executive Bands, as well as having their music appear on MTV, Dr. Demento, PBS and NBC, and have even served as Ellis Paul’s backing band. Playing a brand of acoustic/electric rock that combines elements of 1960’s rock, 1980’s pop and new folk, wrapped around incessant little melodies that demand you listen. All of this is apparent on The Loomers’ 5th album, Reeling Down A Road.

Reeling Down A Road opens with the energetic rocker "Another Desperate Night". Get your dancing shoes, because the Loomers start out with a number that makes you want to move. "Dust It Off" is sort of a love song for re-capturing lost dreams. You know that instrument in the attic? The one you were going to do big things with? The Loomers admonish you to "Dust It Off", and remind you that it's not too late. It's a great tune in a catchy Americana arrangement. "Not Over You" is an honest song of sorrow; not their best songwriting but it gets major points for being real. The Loomers explore the other side of the coin on "Still Falling", an infectious little tune about a love that gets deeper every day.

Tom Petty fans will love the sound of "Hit The Ground Running", as it sounds like it could have come out of his own recording sessions. It's a very catchy tune with southern rock/Americana flavor. The Loomers get back to the good time, party rock-n-roll with "Breaking Out Tonight", a highly danceable number that's sure to get your feet moving. On "Paul McCartney Got It Right", The Loomers take to task all those disaffected rock-n-rollers who fill their songs with their own angst and inner demons, calling for a little more fun and a little less emotional weight in rock music. Ironic in that the song is full of angst over this. "Pity Party" is the lament of an older rock-n-roller; an amusing anecdote from someone who used to close down bars and now struggles to make it through Leno.

The Loomers' wit returns on "Ready To Rip" with one of the great cheesy opening lines in rock-n-roll, "I'm like a tight pair of trousers I'm ready to rip / That's what Crazy Eddie said to Larry The Lip". Unfortunately the rest of the song doesn't quite live up to the opening. Climbing from unrealized snark to touching emotion, The Loomers launch into "As Long As There's Forever", a love song to a daughter and a son. It's a bit awkward at times lyrically, but the emotional reality of the song more than makes up for it. In "Nobody Goes To The River" we hear a lament of the lack of faith in the world that implies that in these difficult times we need it more than ever. The song has a vague gospel feel, but is not so much a religious observation as a sociological one. The Loomers close with the album's title track. "Reeling Down The Road" is a retrospective about a life lived as a musician, a human being, a band and perhaps even as a couple. There are many layers here, wrapped up in an arrangement that's highly enjoyable and a dynamic closer to an album that seeks to celebrate life rather than dwell on its inconsistencies and heartaches.

The Loomers have a universal appeal that isn't so much commercial as comfortable. The sound on Reeling Down A Road is great for a live show or a night out, but perhaps even better for a sunny afternoon on the back deck with a couple of friends and a couple of cold beers. The songwriting is mature in construction if a bit lyrically primitive at times, but always honest. The Loomers make solid music you'll respect yourself for in the morning.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about The Loomers at http://www.theloomers.com/ or www.myspace.com/theloomers. Reeling Down A Road is available as either a CD or Download from CDBaby. Digital copies are also available through iTunes.

Friday, May 28, 2010

M Bird - Over The Bones


MBird - Over The Bones
2009, Birdsmith Productions


MBird is singer/songwriter Meagan Birdsall. While something of a musical jack-of-all trades (Jump Jazz, Broadway, Pop, Folk), MBird has lived an interested and sometimes crazy life. While a student at the Boston Conservatory of Music, MBird was recruited by a Broadway Production Company and major record label. Finishing that phase of her life, Bird moved to Kansas City and embraced the local Jump Jazz scene, becoming a highly acclaimed performer in that genre. Diagnosed with a rare disease that would have fused her jazz closed and choked off her wind-pipe, Bird survived with the help of the Kansas City music community. In her recovery, Bird picked up a guitar and began to write highly personal songs in the folk/pop realm. Those efforts resulted in MBird’s latest album, Over The Bones.

Over The Bones opens with "Train Song", a roots-laden pop tune that's a fun listen. MBird displays a charm here that's uncanny, putting the listener immediately at ease. "Over The Bones" displays the full depth and color of Bird's smooth Alto voice, on a song that sounds like it should become a classic. Bird's vocal performance here is top notch, and the pedal steel part is exquisitely done. "Over My Head" is a declaration of love, giving up all control to what she feels and asking him to do the same. It's an auspicious pop/rock tune that seems like it would only take the right break to turn it into a big hit. Bird shows off her story-teller skills on "Blues And The Highway", blending country, folk and rock around a story of a one-sided love.

Bird shows a brighter side with the charming love song "One Kiss". Bird's songwriting is incredibly nuanced and well-spoken, showing a maturity and depth as an artist that would seem to be beyond her years. The run continues with the intellectual 'come on' song "I See Your Mind". This one starts slow but you'll warm to it quickly. "Porch Swing" is a catchy, dark-yet-hopeful tune that features impressive vocal harmonies exacted by Bird herself. This song is a likely fan favorite. Bird closes with "This Bridge (Boat Song)", a song of goodbye to a relationship that will never work. Bird details all that's gone into the relationship in imagery both apparent and deep, but makes it clear that she's given it all she has. The tune is a stark soliloquy that you won't be able to ignore.

MBird once stared down death and won. On Over The Bones she stares down her own inner struggles, both internal and in the form of the relationship she's chosen to profligate almost entirely of her own efforts. The victory comes at the end when MBird walks away head held high. The process, while messy at times, is highly personal and full of emotion. Over The Bones is steeped in the sort of honesty and poetry that speckles the songs of folks like Rachael Sage, Rosanne Raneri and Marian Call. For MBird, it's a triumph on many fronts.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Mbird at http://www.mbirdmusic.com/. Over The Bones is available as either a CD or Download from CDBaby. Digital versions are also available from Amazon and iTunes.

Duc'n It Easy - October [EP]


Duc'n It Easy - October [EP]
2010, Duc'n It Easy


Once you understand the origin of Duc’n It Easy’s name you’ll understand a great deal more about the band. Born when Steve Rice and Antonio Casasanta ran into each other one night in a bar in 2008, the band started out modestly. Not having the funds for proper gig equipment, Duct tape became the fill in of choice for mic stands, guitar straps, and essentially anything else that was required. Duc’n It Easy became a working motto for the band as well as its name. This spring, Duc’n It Easy brings that same carefree, “it’ll work” attitude to their debut EP, October.

October opens with "Little Games", a dark and unrewarding track mired in relationship troubles. The song's heart is in the right place for what it tries to do, but the execution here isn't up to the level on the rest of the EP. "Fallin' From Grace" is a poetically titled song about giving yourself up to another; it's a carnal experience that seems to be more about bravado than emotion. It's a decent tune. "October" is the best song on the disc, even if its meaning is somewhat mired in imagery that doesn't make complete sense. Vocalist Antonio Casasanta doesn't always have the tightest grip on the melody, but his anachronistic sound is charming in this setting.

On "Whiskey & Peanuts", we get a picture of Duc'n It Easy as a band with southern rock intentions (or at least afterthoughts). The straightforward arrangement offered up here is solid. And while Casasanta has a certain measure of charisma, his brand of charisma doesn't always fit well with the songs Duc'n It Easy writes. This song is one example. It's a catchy tune with a lot of baggage. On "Sweet Melody", Duc'n It Easy shows off at their instrumental best. The band finds a cohesion here that's never entirely absent but often not entirely there on the rest of October. Closing out with "Duc'n It (Back to MA)", Duc'n It Easy gives listeners a glimpse of the roots style that lies somewhere at the heart of their songs. This one is a traveling song, like so many before, where the road provides nourishment, but home is the place to be.

Duc'n It Easy offers up a pleasant mix of songs on October, blending rock, roots and southern rock into a sound that's mostly cohesive and generally enjoyable. There is a certain messy, chaotic sense to Duc'n It Easy that isn't strong or openly apparent, but always rests just at the edge of hearing. Whether this is stylistic or accidental it does serve as something of an attraction. The performances on October are actually quite solid, and the songs can be quite catchy, but it feels as if Duc'n It Easy isn't always in-synch.

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Duc'n It Easy at http://www.ducniteasy.com/ or www.myspace.com/ducniteasy. October is available on CD from Duc'n It Easy's webstore. Digital versions are available via iTunes.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

The Cringe - Play Thing


The Cringe - Play Thing
2010, Listen Records

Led by singer/songwriter John Cusimano, New York City quartet The Cringe have been breaking barriers as they’ve grown into their sound over the last several years. Influenced by bands such as the Foo Fighters and The Vines, The Cringe also recalls the pure punk energy of The Minutemen. The Cringe dropped their third album, Play Thing, earlier this year. It is the band’s most musically aggressive and creatively challenging work to date.

Play Thing opens with "Ride", a raucous rock n roll opener with all the chutzpah of a 1980's glam band. A big catchy chorus wrapped around a killer hook makes this serious pop/rock radio material without conforming fully to the mores of pre-programmed, payola-laden criteria used to craft commercial playlists these days. That distinctive pop sensibility continues with "Weary Me" in spite of a slightly darker feel. The Cringe gets existential on "In The End (We Are All The Same)", a dry but musical offering that serves as a contemplative change of pace. Vaulting back to the rafters, The Cringe launch into "Where It Hurts", a break-neck scramble full of dark harmonies and tight, complex interplay that breaks down into a calm temperate moment before launching itself against the wall once again. It's a highly entertaining listen and certain to be a fan favorite on stage.

The Cringe offer up a more traditional rock ballad on "No Control", aiming perhaps for a bit more popular exposure. The energy here just won't cut it however; The Cringe sound lessened here, like they've sacrificed their core vitality for a repetitive song without a lot of heart. Recovering nicely, "Hiding Space" bridges the gap between 1960's CSN-style rock and 1990's alt-rock as an eccentric-yet-likeable track. The Cringe offer up their frustration with the direction of the world, yearning to "Start Again" in a fairly prototypical alt-rock track. There's solid musicality to the song, but the energy is a bit flat. The band perks up on "Knee Deep", a classic/southern rock influenced song about the sort of love that consumes you. It's a decent rock track that will get your toes tapping.

Get your lighters ready for "When I Stay Home", the sort of rock tune that gets crowds on their feet and swaying en masse. This transitions into the stripped down "Poison", which begins as a manic waltz that accelerates with its own sense of urgency to a pace that dances on the edge of comfort within its incessant musical shell. There's an urgent quality to the song that walks the sharp edge between infatuation and obsession. The dark, heavy turn the song takes two minutes in would suggest that line is crossed. "Friends & Family" is pure punk, delivered in wonderfully dark harmonies; a gothic take on the style and energy of early Police singles. Play Thing bows with the big rock balladry of "Give And Take"; giving fair play to relationship troubles but in a song that lacks the courage, or at least the vitality of its convictions.

The Cringe has mixed success on Play Thing, showing great energy at times but coming off flat nearly as often. It's almost as if the band chose some songs they love to play, and some songs they thought might get them some love from popular radio formats. The difference is very noticeable; almost as if two bands with the same style are chronicled here. The Cringe sound good even on the flat material, but there's vitality to this band that explodes through the cracks when they're on their game. The glimpses of it on Play Thing make the album worth it. Hopefully they'll find more consistent outlets for that energy on their next effort.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about The Cringe at http://www.thecringe.com/ or www.myspace.com/thecringe. Play Thing is available on CD or as a Download from Amazon.com.

Yellowhammers - Yellowhammers


Yellowhammers - Yellow Hammers
2010, Up Records


From Chicago’s West Side come the roots rock aficionados Yellowhammers. Together since 1994, the Yellowhammers tour primarily in Chicago, Wisconsin and Minnesota, working with acts such as Joe Walsh, Billy Preston, Jane’s Addiction and the Smashing Pumpkins over time. For their most recent album, Yellowhammers, the band hooked up with producer Jon Langford (The Mekons, The Old 97’s, Alejandro Escovedo).

Yellowhammers opens with "Everybody's Joking", an easy-going Americana tune with a strong, clear melody and a quirky sensibility that work well together. Shades of New Orleans find their way in there as well, in a tune that will just make you want to smile. "Don't Slow Me Down" keeps the easy-going feel in a placid mid-tempo country-rock tune about watching your world walk away and being powerless to stop it. "St. Clair, The Cop And Ann Marie" is a dark tale of crime, police brutality and revenge, delivery in a jaunty country arrangement. It's an entertaining story song in the American Folk tradition.

The Yellowhammers take side trips into grit and whimsy on "Someday Down The Road" and "Women Strong", before launching into the Rolling Stones-inspired rocker C'mon Elvis. It's an ode to the King of Rock N Roll that's as awkward in lyrical presentation as it is reverent. "Holding Hands" is a sweet, mournful love song. From a vocal/melody standpoint it is a bit of a difficult listen. Vocalist Terry White strains to put big emotion into the song, but it becomes a bit of a cartoon feel at times. The song itself has a pretty melody and is vaguely reminiscent of Blue Rodeo in sound. "(Don't Go Back) To Rockville" is a solid, mid-tempo light rock/country tune with a decent sound; an unpretentious set up for the closing track, "Just The Same". This plaintive love song speaks of devotion and hope drawn from a melancholy palette.

The Yellowhammers bring a rough around the edges, down home ease to their self-titled debut album. Not every song works, but in general it's a solid effort worth checking out.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about the Yellowhammers at http://www.yellowhammers.com/ or www.myspace.com/yellowhammers. Yellowhammers is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

The Futureheads - The Chaos


The Futureheads - The Chaos
2010, Dovecote Records

It's perhaps ironic that a band with a name like The Futurheads would draw such serious inspiration from sounds of the past. Blending British New Wave, Punk and Pop and bending them in a thoroughly modern direction, The Futureheads make a splash with their self-titled debut album. On June 1, 2010, The Futureheads return with The Chaos. The Chaos features strong songwriting, an amazing sense of cohesion and some of the best vocal harmonies this side of the Beach Boys.

The Chaos opens with the title track, a wild rock n roll ride mixing British New Wave with classic Punk energy, almost as if The Ramones mugged David Byrne and forced him to sing lead vocals. The Futureheads play with a sense of abandon that's pure rock n roll, yet retain a distinct musicality that is addicting. "Struck Dumb" is a great song that will make you want to dance, and carries with it a positive message to boot. The Futureheads' melodic turns will have you thinking of classic Queen on "Heartbeat Song", a self-effacing love song without the pithy nuances of a ballad. Peppy, feel-good rock n roll is the order of the day on tunes such as "Stop The Noise", "The Connector" and "I Can Do That". The Futureheads experience a bit of a slowdown in the middle, but recover nicely with the penultimate "Dart At The Map, with vocal harmonies that have Brian Wilson written all over them. The official closer is "Jupiter", a Spacehog-meets-Queen rocker big on energy that gets a bit messy around the musical edges. Perhaps the biggest delight on the album however is the untitled bonus track, an a Cappella offering that shows off the voices of The Futureheads in fine fashion.

The Chaos is a great start. The album loses focus a bit late in the game, but is nonetheless a solid effort. The band exudes energy and a love for what they're doing that is unmistakable, even on a studio recording. Don't be surprised if The Futureheads open up their sound a bit more to make room for those fantastic harmonies the next time around.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about The Futureheads at http://www.futureheads.com/ or www.myspace.com/futureheads. The Chaos drops on CD on June 1, 2010 and will be available on Amazon.com. The album was release digitally in April, 2010, and can be had through Amazon or iTunes.

Susan Hickman - Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over


Susan Hickman - Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over
2010, Prickly Pear Records


Hickman returns with a classic style country heartbreaker in "Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over", the 2nd single off of her self-titled debut album. The song features a chorus that will stay with you, particularly on a cloudy day where melancholy hangs in the air like a mist. Hickman has one of those voices you want to just keep singing, eschewing flashy histrionics for a solid, emotive vocal performance. She's at her best right here. "Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over" bypasses the perky pop of Nashville's recent dark decade and sticks to the basics: solid melody, tight musicianship, and a vocalist who doesn't try to do too much.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)
Learn more about Susan Hickman at www.susanhickman.com or www.myspace.com/susanhickman. Downloads of "Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over" are available from Amazon and iTunes.

Hooray For Earth - Momo


Hooray For Earth - Momo
2010, Dovecote Records

Hooray For Earth got their start in Boston in 2005, although the roots of the band can be traced back to a Cambridge, Massachusetts basement almost ten years earlier. Having since moved to New York City, Hooray For Earth has quickly gained a lot of fans with their highly variable brand of electro-pop. On June 1, 2010, Dovecote Records re-releases Hooray For Earth’s EP Momo. Previously only available in digital formats, Momo can be had on CD or vinyl (as well as digital).

Momo opens with "Surrounded By Your Friends", a mellow but catchy electro-pop tune that remembers that pop is part of the equation. Built up with lush harmonies and a punctuating bass line, "Surrounded By Your Friends" shows a melodic touch that's definitively influenced by some of the great Brit Rock bands over the years. "Comfortable, Comparable" is quietly catchy, although the vocals are a bit buried inside of the arrangement. Momo descends into bland pop with "Get Home", turning into outright cacophony on "Scaling". Sound and layering persevere over melody and progression in this repetitive and sonically discomfiting composition. Hooray For Earth head for the garage on "Form", an entertainingly messy rock tune built on a simple rock beat and electronic progression. The song has a distinct pop sensibility even if the band tries to hide it well. Momo closes with "Rolling/Nectarine", a repetitive and droning bit of Depeche Mode style pop that loses its charm quickly.

Hooray For Earth is all over the map on their most recent EP, Momo; morphing from a catchy electro-pop band into a droning and cacophonous experimental outlet before sidling up to the dance floor with a light-club offering that adds more confusion than stability to the band's sound. While the heterogeneity in sound is a welcome effort, in this case it leaves Hooray For Earth sounding like they're casting about to find their own identity as a band. There are strong moments on Momo, but there's also some time when Hooray For Earth sounds lost.

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Hooray For Earth at http://www.hoorayforearth.net/ or www.myspace.com/hooray4earth. Momo can be purchased on CD from Amazon.com. Digital copies are available from Amazon .

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Transmit Now - Downtown Merry-Go-Round


Transmit Now - Downtown Merry-Go-Round
2010, Silent Majority Group


Orlando’s Transmit Now has come a long quickly. The band had their coming out on the Vans Warped Tour in July after winning a spot in an on-line contest. Since then, Transmit Now have won a contest through MTV, been featured on several MTV shows and even had one of their songs accepted during the People’s Choice Awards. With two prior EPs under their belt, Transmit Now signed to the Silent Majority Group in 2009. Today, Transmit Now unleashes their first full-length album on the world. Downtown Merry-Go-Round is a mix of high energy pop/rock and punk energy.

Downtown Merry-Go-Round opens with "What You're Thinking", a strong active rock tune with the pop sensibility to have some traction on the radio dial. The hooky chorus will grab you the first time you hear it. "Poster Boys" is another highly marketable rock tune, peppy and full of energy and ultimately tuneful. "Let's Go Out Tonight" has the hooks and theme to be a big summertime anthem. With the right breaks this tune could be all over the radio this summer. Transmit Now stays mostly on track through tunes such as "Issues", "Everything's Alright" And "Wish You Well", although the sound does border on formulaic.

"The Last Thing" is the compulsory sensitive ballad and a decent attempt even if it sounds a bit like a Rob Thomas cast off. Transmit Now finds their chutzpah again on "Stop Stop", a high-energy rocker that will have fans breathing a sigh of relief. This tune is highly danceable without giving up a sense of the band's aura of controlled recklessness. "Pick Up The Phone" has a wonderful sense of urgency that pervades the song; a dynamic rocker that is another likely winner at commercial/alternative radio. This song has one of the best choruses I've heard yet from the crop of albums due in late spring/early summer. Transmit Now closes with "Fast Ride", a proto-typical radio/rock tune featuring the sort of easy-to-consume chorus that corporate radio loves but lacking the dynamic energy that seems to make the band tick.

Downtown Merry-Go-Round is a decent effort. Transmit Now seems to be caught between creating a commercial album and the rock-n-roll cycle they crave. It's a fair mix; commercial enough to gain the band real attention in pop circles, but with enough honest rock nuggets to keep the purists mollified. Downtown Merry-Go-Round will likely expand Transmit Now's notoriety, hopefully enough that the album can find them worrying a bit less about whether radio will play their singles.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Transmit Now at www.myspace.com/transmitnow or www.myspace.com/transmitnow. Downtown Merry-Go-Round is available on CD from Amazon.com. Downloads can be obtained via iTunes.

Framing Hanley - A Promise To Burn


Framing Hanley - A Promise To Burn
2010, Silent Majority Group


Framing Hanley returns with their 2nd album today, A Promise To Burn; showing flashes of brilliance, but staying mostly mired in pre-processed, radio-ready modern rock. The Nashville-based band who gained their initial notoriety via MySpace continues to expand upon the sound they unleashed on 2007’s The Moment. Opening with "The Promise", Framing Hanley sounds a bit cliché, but scores points with a big, catchy rock chorus. Its decent radio fare but not a standout. "Wake Up" is an urgent pop/rocker with a chorus built around a killer hook. Moving from this dynamic moment into "Bittersweet Sundown", Framing Hanley pushes through a bland rocker that foretells the next few songs.

"Weight Of The World" turns the tide with a pared-back 1980's rock sound that is very becoming to the band. Framing Hanley strips back some of the guitar sound and finds a low-key approach that allows the simple melody to shine. Kenneth Nixon offers up his best vocals on the disc, and "Weight Of The World" sounds like a hit in most any era. On "Fool With Dreams", Framing Hanley moves into the sensitive power ballad with a somewhat cliché but likely popular tune. "Back To Go Again" turns out to the centerpiece of A Promise To Burn, featuring one of those choruses that get lodged in your brain. This is the catchiest tune on the disc; a missive on a relationship that is falling apart and the desire to hit reset before it crashes. "Livin' So Divine" is a solid active-rock tune with mild commercial potential but not a lot of heart. And so goes the rest of A Promise To Burn, right through the closing track, "The Burn".

Framing Hanley has a big rock sound that is a bit too typical to really stand out. There is a distinct musicality at the heart of the songwriting on A Promise To Burn, but this often gets buried inside the commercial intent that drives the album. Framing Hanley's best moments come when they shake off the commercial chains and write pure pop/rock songs. As a whole, A Promise To Burn is a decent effort with a couple of great moments. It's likely to satisfying existing fans but isn't a strong catalyst for new ones.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Framing Hanley at http://www.framinghanley.com/ or http://www.framinghanley.net/. A Promise To Burn is available on CD from Amazon.com. Digital versions are available from iTunes.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Laith Al-Saadi - In The Round


Laith Al-Saadi - In The Round
2009, Laith Al-Saadi

Laith Al-Saadi has been a key member of the Detroit music scene for fifteen years now, earning opening spots for artists such as Robben Ford, Johnny Winter, BB King, The Yardbirds, Kenny Wayne Sheppard and Leon Russell. Al-Saadi was recently named one of the four best guitarists in the US by the Guitar Center. The attention is warranted. Al-Saadi's latest album, In The Round, blends Blues and Pop/Rock in glorious fashion, mix with Al-Saadi's amazing voice for one of the more gratifying blues albums of the past year.


In The Round opens with "Chains", a dynamic electric blues track that is crisp, clean and full of spirit. Al-Saadi's voice is smooth with tremendous depth and a soulful aspect. The guitar work here is exquisite. "No One Left To Blame" is a heart-on-your-sleeve rocker. Al-Saadi's voice bends and flexes like the arm of a bodybuilder, belting out one passage and then giving a lyric read to the next. "Morning Light" is classic R&B; soulful and highly musical. This pure love song is greatly enhanced by Al-Saadi's beautiful voice.

"My Hands Are Tied" is flat-out a great rock n roll tune; danceable and soulful. This is the song on In The Round most likely to be come a fan favorite at shows. On "Free", Al-Saadi goes for solid pop/rock and displays another facet of his musical personality. This is gentle, delightful pop that will be as notable for its musicality as for its surprise factor. Al-Saadi channels Stevie Ray Vaughan on "Before Too Long", a brilliant blues rocker with the Texas flatlands stamped all over its DNA. In The Round closes with "Big Mama" an instrumental blend of country, blues and rock n roll that will make you want to dance.

Hold on to your hats, folks, because Laith Al-Saadi might be one of the best new songwriters dabbling in the roots-filled valley that exists between blues, rock and country these days. In The Round is a delightful listen, with strong song-writing throughout, solid to plus arrangements and a voice you could listen to all day long. In The Round is a keeper.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Laith Al-Saadi at http://www.laithmusic.com/ or www.myspace.com/laithalsaadi. In The Round is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

The Portraits - The Blushing Of A World In White


The Portraits - The Blushing Of A World In White
2010, The Portraits

When art tutor Lorraine Reilly met music teacher Jeremy Millington over a decade ago, the two were teachers at a school on the Isle Of Wight. Both sought creative outlets, but never dreamed that they'd one day leave their day jobs and forms a partnership that would still thrive ten years into the third millennium. As The Portraits, Reilly and Millington have released two critically acclaimed albums. We had the pleasure of reviewing their sophomore effort, Timescape, last year, finding The Portraits' blend of classical construction, pop sensibility and intelligently nuanced lyrics to be refreshing. On June 21, 2010, The Portraits will release their third album, The Blushing Of A World In White, stripping away the electronic elements that have dominated their two prior releases and offering an acoustic set that gives greater prominence to their traditionally angelic vocal harmonies.

The Blushing Of A World In White opens with "The Writer", a brilliant song of need. The lead voice here is that of a character in a book that waits urgently for the one who provides her prime force to return and create. It's something of a surreal premise, but very artfully done and full of abject beauty. "Strong Cien Secretos" is solid light Latin pop; you could imagine this making a dent on World pop charts around the globe. Elements of pop and jazz wiggle their way in between the lines. "Undo" documents the connections to those who touch our lives and how time drapes them across our souls like layers of our skin. It's an amazingly powerful allegory, a true "Wow" moment with a message of hope based in both the past and the future.

"Only Our Friends We Choose" is a magical musical concoction featuring harmonies you have to hear to believe. It's a jaunty little pop song with baroque colorings and a chorus that will not leave you alone. The light, airy piano led arrangement features light percussion and strings, and is a pleasant change of pace. On "Queens Of Ice", The Portraits take on a socio-political bent that could be seen as a criticism of one aspect of British society. It's an entertaining tune; highly creative in construction. The Portraits keeps up the social pressure in "Our Time", an indictment of the standards of society in an age where when wisdom is shunned as inconvenient at best. "I Am Made Queen" is an apologist ode to the human tendency to elevate the new and unknown to importance over the known and familiar. Here it is viewed in cultural terms, wrapped up in a stirring melody and stellar arrangement. Reilly is at her vocal best here, soaring with a song with the potential to become a signature or keynote song for the Portraits, as well as for other artists who choose to cover it down the line.

In the experience of two albums there's not been a Portraits song that failed to have substance, and that has not changed, but if you want a snapshot of the pure aesthetic beauty they are capable of check out "Colours". The song has depth, but Reilly and Millington weave their voices through a simple open arrangement to create four and-a-half minutes of pure beauty. "Click Click Click" is a song about the fleeting essence of time and all that we might accomplish in the world. Delivered at 160bpm, the song has a sense of urgency that picks at you as you listen. Millington takes lead here in his finest performance on the album. "Bago Girl" is a musical portrait of strength and resilience in a child in the face of oppression. It is a testament of the strength of the human spirit; a sign that beauty can grow from desolation if tended properly. The Portraits close with the wide open arrangement of "Old Stone Table"; a sonic exercise that offers original interplay among the voices of Reilly and Millington and their support instruments, although the incessant, repetitive nature of the piano part in this song wears hard. One suspects that repetition represents the immutable object of the song's subject, but it just plays as too much. It's perhaps the one solid complaint on the whole album; it's just unfortunate it comes as the final impression of the album.

The Portraits blend sophistication with simplicity; a classical mien with modern mores on The Blushing Of A World In White. Infused with musical and rhythmic influences drawn from at least four continents, The Portraits create thought-provoking works of art in song. The Blushing Of A World In White doesn't so much mark a change for The Portraits as it does the next step in their inevitable development. The create force majeure comprised of Lorraine Reilly and Jeremy Millington is destined to never rest in their search for new creative avenues in music. It's for that reason that The Portraits always sound fresh and inspired. This is a must-have album.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about The Portraits at http://www.theportraits.info/ or www.myspace.com/theportraitseurope. The Portraits are donating a portion of all sales of The Blushing Of A World In White to a school for orphans in Mandalay, Burma. The Blushing Of A World In White drops on June 21, 2010. CDs and Downloads will be availble on The Portraits' website. CDs will be a (very reasonable) set price. For downloads, you can set your own price.

The Devyl Nellys - Airport


The Devyl Nellys - Airport
2009, Nine Lives Records

New York City-based outfit The Devyl Nellys bring a distinctive 1960’s vibe blended with modern pop sensibilities on their third EP, Airport. While young as an ensemble, The Devyl Nellys have already gained significant attention from national and regional radio shows, and their music has already been placed on The Discovery Channel, The History Channel and a national compilation from The Gap. With two amazing voices in Nelly Levon and Tim Noyes, The Devyl Nellys craft sounds that are ultimately pleasing to the ear.

Airport opens with "All Is Done" a gentle rocker ala Natalie Merchant with Nelly Levon on vocals. Levon has a pleasant also voice with real texture and a warmth you just can't teach. It's a solid opener with just a little bit of soul. "Airport" features Tim Noyes at the mic, juxtaposing active rhythms with an ethereal, dreamy arrangement. The song is quietly impressive, like a soliloquy in a play, and is built in a simple construction around a solid melody/vocal line. "Coming On" is a country-western tune about how love can take you by surprise. Levon is back on vocals with a performance that can't help but endear her to your ears. "Settle" is laid-back, sophisticated pop music. Noyes is a crooner, a fact that is wholly evident here, particularly as he moves into his upper range. Airport closes with Alone, a dark, bluesy rocker that both Tim Noyes and Nelly Levon in play. It's a decent enough closer, good enough to get you wondering about what might come next from The Devyl Nellys.

Airport doesn't really have one standout track, but is five above-average tracks packaged together in tight arrangements and alternating the impressive voices of Tim Noyes and Nelly Levon. The Devyl Nellys show real potential as artists. This is a band you won't be surprised to see still together a decade or two down the road. While not flashy, they deliver solid, impressive performances song after song. Thoughtful lyrics with the occasional twist of wit highlight arrangements that seem to write themselves. Come glide with the Devyl Nellys.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about The Devyl Nellys at www.myspace.com/thedevylnellys. Airport is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

The John Byrne Band - After The Wake


The John Byrne Band - After The Wake
2010, ri-ra Records


Dublin-born singer/songwriter John Byrne came to the US as a teenager. As a 1960's folk fan in his native Ireland, Byrne explored both the music of Bob Dylan and his influences, as well as delving deeper into the Celtic musical traditions of his upbringing. Dylan, Woody Guthrie and Ramblin' Jack Elliot all had major effects on Byrne as a music fan and burgeoning songwriter, as did the poly-melodic stylings of the band Planxty. Byrne is a co-founder of Celtic band Patrick's Head, a fan-favorite for their eight year run in the Northeast US. In February of 2010, John Byrne stepped out in another direction, combining his love of American folk and Celtic roots music with his new band. The John Byrne band's debut album, After The Wake shows off the distinctive voice and songwriting of Byrne as well as the supple and talented musicians he's surrounded himself with: Bassist Jaron Olevsky (Amos Lee); drummer Freddie Berman (Amos Lee); fiddler Sara Milonovich (Pete Seeger, The McKrells) and on guitar, banjo and production board Andrew Keenan among others.

After The Wake opens with "In Your Savior's Place", a musical dichotomy that's interesting for the conflict between what it sounds like and what it actually is. "In Your Savior's Place" is delivered in a pretty Americana arrangement full of strong vocal harmonies and top-notch instrumental work. In spite of the uplifting sounding chorus, it's a dark and angry song rife with jealousy. Byrne is gritty in the verses, fueling the impression of darker thoughts delivered in rosy terms. "It's A Gas That Makes You Laugh" continues the trend of upbeat, gritty tunes. The arrangement here is just outstanding; highly danceable in spite of the dark subject matter. It's a brilliant tune about suffocating (figuratively) in a place you never wanted to be but can't seem to leave. Byrne ruminates on life's status as a patchwork built from our history in "Various Verses", casting music and life as reflections of one another in metaphorical terms. This is offered in a gentle Celtic arrangement with a mournful feel; a great listen.

"A Song With No Words" is a subtle love song with a mournful feel. Flute serves as a haunting garnish, while Milonovich delivers the stark counter melody to Byrne's competent vocal. Byrne shows a story-teller's flair on "See You Then", detailing the loss of a friendship and offering advice about moving on. This is great songwriting, delivered with the aplomb of a master carver of tales. Byrne pays tribute to Bob Dylan on "Boys Forget The Whale", a delicious blues-flavored folk/rock romp that will be on repeat no matter what form your music player takes. At eight minutes the rapid fire prose of this song takes some listening stamina, but the song is brilliantly delivered and will keep listeners engaged from start to finish.

For all the quality that's come before, "Old Man's Disguise" may be the best pure songwriting on the album. It's not flashy or garish, but a quietly forceful musical recollection full of stirring imagery and palpable emotion. "The Ballad Of Martin Doyle" is a mournful ode to an Irish hero of World War I for the British Army who later served in the Irish Republican Army in its fight for independence. The song laments the loss of a homeland, and seems to regret the conflict of serving a country that has taken away his home. After The Wake closes with "Already Gone", a gorgeous and sad tune that's loaded with a pragmatic sense of destiny and many layers of meaning ("What's one more drink when you're already gone.") It's a brilliant closer, though provoking and full of heart while remaining ultimately tuneful.

John Byrne's After The Wake is the sort of album that an artist spends their entire career trying to create. Every once in a while someone actually manages to do it; mix splendid story-telling skills, top-notch musicianship, and a grand creative sense with just the right mix of songs. After The Wake is nothing short of a brilliant collection; either an album that is the benchmark for the rest of Byrne's creative life or the magical apex that he'll approach the rest of his life but never quite achieve again. If you only buy one new album this year, make sure that John Byrne's After The Wake is one of your considerations. After The Wake is a Wildy's World Certified Desert Island Disc.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about The John Byrne Band at http://www.johnbyrneband.com/ or www.myspace.com/byrnemusic. After The Wake is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Tom Principato Band - Raising The Roof!


Tom Principato Band - Raising The Roof!
2008, Powerhouse Records

Tom Principato Band's Raising The Roof! blends Blues, Funk, Reggae and Rock with dashes of New Orleans spice for a fun music ride. Principato has fun marching through numbers such as "Lock And Key", "Lies" and "They Called For 'Stormy Monday' (but 'Mustang Sally' is just as bad)", but truly shines on the instrumentals. The funk-driven "Too Damn Funky", "Bo-Bo's Groove" and the sweet, lyric "Mi Solea" show off Principato's guitar work as well as a tight band that bend and twist to Principato's every move. Raising The Roof! doesn't offer up anything that will blow listeners away, but it's a solid mix of rock n roll with other styles that is certain to appeal to the musicians in the crowd and is very much worth an occasional listen.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Tom Principato at http://www.tomprincipato.com/ or www.myspace.com/tomprincipato2. Raising The Roof is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Friday, May 21, 2010

The Branders - The Branders


The Branders - The Branders
2009, The Branders


Denver, Colorado seems to be a hotspot for country and country-derivative music these days. The latest such band to come to our attention is The Branders, a duo consisting of singer Tarrah Speer and guitarist Dennis Gronbeck. Blending traditional country and rock n roll around Speer’s sultry voice seems to be a winning combination for the Branders, who celebrated 2009 with the release of their self-titled debut EP.

The Branders opens with the delightful honky-tonk country of "I've Been Thinking". Tarrah Speer has a sultry, soulful voice that will have you picking up your two-step boots and heading for the dance floor. "Real Cowboy" is pure Rock N Blues, and Speer will remind listeners of a young Michelle Malone but with a slightly more lyric voice. "Three Years" is a rueful look back over the three years since a relationship has ended that goes from the cusp of marriage to a chasm of days numbering in the thousands. "I Want You" is an upbeat love song with honky-tonk sensibility; a great dance tune built around a big hook and solid songwriting.

"Fall" has a solid early rock/country feel that's full of strong vocal harmonies and a classic country feel. "Makes Me Stay" explores the intangibles in relationships, zeroing in on that little bit of magic and how it can overcome all of the pressure of the outside world. The Branders close out with "Burn", an aggressive, guitar-oriented rocker about a woman scorned. The bluesy rock arrangement contrasts nicely with Speer's lyric alto voice. The theme of the song appears to be fighting back in the face of domestic violence.

The Branders are a pleasant surprise, both more country and more rock n roll that you might expect up front. The Branders is sonically pleasing, full of well-written songs and featuring the memorable voice of Tarrah Speer. One might imagine that The Branders still have some growing to do. It may be worth checking out whatever comes next for The Branders.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about The Branders at www.myspace.com/thebranders. The Branders is available through Amazon.com as either a CD or Download.

The Everyday Motive - Seven Song EP


The Everyday Motive - Seven Song EP
2010, The Everyday Motive


Milwaukee quartet The Everyday Motive spent a whole lot of time listening to alternative music during the 1990’s, a fact that is apparent when listening to their Seven Song EP. Influenced by bands such as the Foo Fighters, Weezer, Nirvana, Green Day and Stone Temple Pilots, the band also features high pop aesthetics woven into each song.

Everyday Motive’s Seven Song EP opens with "Anything Done Differently", an appealing modern rock tune with stripped-down sound. Solid vocals and a big pop hook help to create a high-energy, danceable rock tune. The song explores each of our own worst enemies while staying positive. "Lock It Up" is highly melodic and catchy; a bit of the low-key side for commercial radio but which might just turn into a hit single anyway. "From What I Can Remember" is pure pop/rock gold with a chorus that is likely to take over your skull and set up checkpoints. The angular style of the song mixed with The Everyday Motive's sense of dynamics and harmony vocals make this a potential breakout hit. "You're No Good" finds The Everyday Motive sounding more than a bit like Cowboy Mouth with a slightly heavier rock sound. It's a strong tune that's perfect for modern rock formats. The Everyday Motive closes with "Waste Away", a somewhat cookie-cutter tune that retains optimum sound.

The Everyday Motive has the potential to be huge. Breaks aside, The Everyday Motive appear to be in a good position to maintain and sustain a career of making music. Their Seven Song EP is an apt introduction, certain to inspire people to want to learn more about the band. Make sure you check out The Everyday Motive. You won't be sorry you did.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about The Everyday Motive at www.myspace.com/everydaymotive. Seven Song EP is available as either a CD or Download from CDBaby.com.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

herMajesty - Images From The Vanishing Night


herMajesty - Images From The Vanishing Night
2010, Bittersweet Records

herMajesty has been crashing the New York City scene since 2005, mixing ethereal rock expositions with highly emotive lyrics and grand melody. herMajesty’s latest release, Images From The Vanishing Night, ventures into solid rock/pop territory at times.

Images From The Vanishing Night opens with the soaring strains of "Operator (NYC)". herMajesty shows off guitar work inspired by The Edge in a song reminiscent of the ethereal rock feel of early U2. "Into The Light" is a solid pop tune, although the vocalist somewhat implodes on the high notes in the transition to verse two. It's a decent tune otherwise. "My Dear Friend" is decent, middle of the road rock that's perhaps a bit overdone emotionally. "World Smiles" goes for a big sonic impression, soaring with anthemic power but not really grabbing the listener in the process. The EP closes with "Wish", a great song of love and longing; of missing someone who is far away. "Wish" is the class of the EP.

Images From The Vanishing Night is a highly uneven experience, ranging from sublime songwriting ("Wish") to experiments in big bland sound ("World Smiles"). herMajesty shows the ability on Images From The Vanishing Night to craft solid pop/rock songs, but was perhaps a bit too much in a hurry to get an EP out to wait for a couple more high quality songs to be born. Nevertheless, Images From The Vanishing Night offers a solid introduction to herMajesty; enough so that you won't hesitate to check out the next release after you've heard this one.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about herMajesty at http://www.hermajestyny.com/. Images From The Vanishing Night is available as either a CD or Download from Amazon.com.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Basia Lyjak - The Complete Collection


Basia Lyjak - The Complete Collection
2010, Basia Lyjak


Canada’s Princess of Rock N Roll, Basia Lyjak, has created quite a stir with a series of singles that combine the rough edge of 1980’s rockers such as Pat Benetar, Blondie and Joan Jett with some of the pop sensibilities of artists such as Celine Dion or Chantal Kreviazuk. Lyjak has the voice and the look of a superstar. A demo of Lyjak’s singles, The Complete Collection, fell into our hands recently.

The Complete Collection opens with "Never Wanted Anything", a powerful, emotional rocker with shades of Pat Benetar and Celine Dion. This is a solid, radio-ready track with real oomph and honest emotion. "What It Feels Like" is an angry tune that allows Lyjak's rough edges some elbow room. "Don't Talk" is a great rock single with serious pop credentials that could be a hit with the right push. "Stuttering" would be entirely at home on 1980's pop radio and has one of those choruses you simply can't get out of your brain. This may be one of Lyjak's best overall tunes to date. "Torn" gets a bit repetitive, but has a big solid radio-ready sound that's likely to gain it some attention. "Lies" is pure anger and vitriol in song; solid rock songwriting with pop pre-texts. Lyjak saves her best for last; "Bye Bye" is a potential chart hit with a big upside. Get this song placed on the right TV show or movie soundtrack and you have the potential for this one to go viral.

Basia Lyjak combines the aura of a pop star with the rough edge of 1980's rock queens such as Joan Jett, Pat Benetar and Blondie. Lyjak perhaps isn’t ready to take the crown of Lee Aaron, but the day may come when she’s knocking on that door. The Complete Collection should be just a start for Lyjak, who has the sound and style to build a solid career at the glamorous crossroads where rock and pop meet.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Basia Lyjak at http://www.basialyjak.com/ or www.myspace.com/basialyjak. Lyjak sells her singles and downloads directly through her own website, cutting out the middle man and saving listeners big dollars over what the big box e-tailers charge. You can also get digital with Amazon.com or iTunes. Photo credit: Ron Boudreau.

Dustin Edge - By The Numbers


Dustin Edge - By The Numbers
2010, Dustin Edge


New York-based singer-songwriter Dustin Edge returns in 2010 with his sophomore album, By The Numbers. The Louisville, KY native had moved to the Czech Republic in 2006 to teach, but stumbled into a weekly gig at a local hostel. This experience awakened Edge’s love of performing, and he quickly moved back to the US to pursue his muse. By The Numbers has sort of a geek-cool sensibility to it, with Edge writing about life using mathematical and scientific concepts as allegories for life’s experiences.

By The Numbers opens with "The Golden Ration", a delirious, high-speed lyrical assault in a catchy arrangement you simply cannot ignore. The title references a mathematical concept studied since Ancient Greek times and occasionally regarded as a divine number or attribute. The Golden Ration is considered an aesthetically pleasing and has been used in visual art since the Renaissance. "Weights And Measures" is another high-speed ramble with lyrics delivered in rapid-fire style over a funk-rock arrangement. Dustin Edge's composition is compact, enjoyable and highly danceable. "Human Or Machine" finds Dustin Edge taking his foot off the pedal and grabbing a bit of magic in a highly marketable, appealing tune. "Easy As Pi" is a brief acoustic guitar diversion that sets up the ethereal Electronica of "Primes". This is a pretty composition that inspires phrases like "Space Age" and "Ambience". Fans of Bill Laswell and Pete Namlook might find something to like here.

Dustin Edge gets in enough theoretical references on By The Numbers to engage a team of theoretical physicists. Luckily the music is a bit more accessible; although it seems likely Dustin Edge didn't come into By The Numbers with a clear vision or direction. Nevertheless it's an enjoyable side-trip that should keep fan guessing about where he'll head next.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

Learn more about Dustin Edge at http://www.dustinedge.com/ or www.myspace.com/dustinedge. By The Numbers is available from Amazon.com as either a CD or Download.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Sabrina & Craig - One Home... One Heart


Sabrina & Craig - One Home... One Heart
2010, Bronze Metal Music/SESAC

What you get when you take a Bronze Medal winning Olympic diver and an in-demand holistic dog trainer? In this case, you get one of the more exciting folk music duos you’re likely to stumble across. Sabrina Schneppat has been singing and act acting for years, earning her membership into SAG along the way and becoming one of L.A.’s most sought after dog (and owner) trainers. Craig Lincoln won a Bronze Medal in the 1972 Olympics, as well as silver in that year’s Pan Am Games. Meeting at a business seminar several years ago, the two began a musical odyssey that can be breathtakingly beautiful one moment and decidedly comical the next. Sabrina & Craig documented the trip so far with their charming debut album, One Home… One Heart.

One Home... On Heart opens with Spanish Guitar and southern European flavor of "Make You Mine". It's a song about continually getting sucked into a bad situation because the narrator is convinced she can make the perpetrator her own. The song implies the use of personal charms as a weapon amidst moderate innuendo and humor. "Cats & Dogs" sets up a humorous parallel between cats and dogs and the tendency for opposites to attract in relationships. Amusing and sweet, Sabrina & Craig infuse the song with gorgeous harmony vocals and strong guitar work. "Help Wanted" is both a want-ad and love advice for the male listeners out there. Full of good humor, Sabrina winks her way through this one while providing a lesson on the economics of love. The piano work in "Help Wanted" is amazing.

"Call Your Mom" is the first of two loving maternal tributes. Craig takes the microphone for this one, injecting the song with a personal feel that's endearing. "One Home, One Heart" might just be the perfect wedding song; a lovely tribute to love with a mature outlook that's destined for many-a-mix tape. Sabrina & Craig offer up a light and entertaining call out song in "Little White Lies", an instant classic full of gorgeous vocal harmonies. "Mama's Hand's" is the other song that pays tribute to Moms, this time from a daughter's perspective. It's a gorgeous tune, and fully alive with emotion in Sabrina's hands.

"Same Old Song & Dance" has a slight European feel to its gentle jazz arrangement, caressing the sweet and simple melody. Sabrina takes lead vocal on this one and offers up the best overall vocal performance on the album. "Mine All Mine" is a Beach Boys-esque song about the car of your dreams. The acoustic arrangement has a strong early rock feel and is an enjoyable listen. Sabrina & Craig close with the wonderful instrumental "Uncle Harold", which delivers a surprising Scott Joplin feel on guitar. The song incorporates "You Are My Sunshine" along the way, and serves as a surprisingly apt closer for One Home... One Heart.

Sabrina & Craig weaves thoughtful stories, people and moments into their songs, sprinkling each observation with intelligence and wit while wrapping them in the cloak of gorgeous, memorable melodies. One Home... On Heart is a definite keeper. This is an album you'll come back to time and time again. Both Sabrina & Craig are solid performers, but together they take on a chemistry that draws you in. One Home... One Heart is poised to make Sabrina & Craig highly desirable on the folk circuit if they aren't already.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)


Learn more about Sabrina & Craig at http://www.sabrinaandcraig.com/ or www.myspace.com/sabrinaandcraig. No online outlet seems to be available for One Home... One Heart, but if you contact Sabrina & Craig directly through either their website or MySpace page I am certain they'll be happy to help you out.