tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20758727336498246252024-03-13T04:49:51.139-04:00Thoughts and AcquisitionsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-89061400942065966682014-07-10T09:09:00.000-04:002014-07-10T09:09:21.438-04:00Music Review - Harbour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qycDtFj5CRZ36wMp4MQc2HrIpIvzmkgQj8yByaPGyHTPpMmbYYCp_QWB2yfyNi9uLV1-ynIzYH43nkjCafumLPMJcs0JivIh-QmJ6qmOQ64F8ApKlt3AZR3DHqyPlJ9KJIA-ciilbIv2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-10+at+8.46.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qycDtFj5CRZ36wMp4MQc2HrIpIvzmkgQj8yByaPGyHTPpMmbYYCp_QWB2yfyNi9uLV1-ynIzYH43nkjCafumLPMJcs0JivIh-QmJ6qmOQ64F8ApKlt3AZR3DHqyPlJ9KJIA-ciilbIv2/s320/Screen+Shot+2014-07-10+at+8.46.19+AM.png" /></a></div>
<p>Cincinnati, Ohio has never been known as a bastion of independent music. Being on the verge of Kentucky, it's often overrun with pop/country and the like, flooding it's airwaves and bars with what people in board rooms believe we should like because spreadsheets and focus groups say it is so. But there is always an exception to the rule. Harbour wants very much to be that exception. The four piece have a very upbeat and poppy feel that nonetheless clashes with most of what's been heard out of Cincinnati in the last few years (READ: since like 1986).</p>
<p>At first listen, Harbour plays melodic offbeat alternapop. It's important to keep in mind they play it masterfully, with a feeling of fun in every song. The beats laid down are very driving without being straight 2/4 or 4/4 dance rhythms. This drummer really likes to explore the set, laying into the hi-hat for an extension or getting tribal with the toms in verses that might be let down were those massive thumps not there. Vocally, Harbour is a bit sassy with a classic feel. Not Roy Orbison Classic, but kind of the neo-classic greaser style we see from bands like The Neighbourhood. Guitars are driving without clashing: there is a nice exchange of leads between the at least two guitars and they tend to be supported by the bass, which always holds the rhythm line. If there is one negative to this self-titled album it's the abrupt endings to many of the songs - they seem to flow on then suddenly hit a brick wall to stop dead.</p>
<p>Some of the stand out songs on this 14 track eponymous album include the starter track, "What I'm Looking For" (we'll ignore the intro as it's, well, an intro). This song really sets the tone for the album, upbeat and dancy (if you are into moving around like that). Another interesting track is the stripped down "Three Seasons" which features some simple drums with vocal melodies and overlays to start off, making it a pretty chill tune amongst some more frenetic tunes. Finally, "Tonight Tonight" really shows where upbeat alternapop can meet a darker side.</p>
<p>With a sound like this, Harbour has the possibility of putting Cincinnati on the map as a place that produces music the rest of us can enjoy. Hopefully there is a bright future for this band from Southern Ohio.</p>
<p>Where to find it:</p>
<ul><li><a href = 'http://harbourtheband.bandcamp.com/' target = _new>BandCamp</a></li></ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://thenbhd.com/us/' target = _new>The Neighbourhood</a>, <a href = 'http://walkthemoonband.com/' target = _new>Walk the Moon</a>, <a href = 'http://www.youngthegiant.com/' target = _new>Young the Giant</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-36008012817453145792014-06-25T12:11:00.000-04:002014-06-25T12:11:50.345-04:00Music Review - Bob Fera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyf2HAzPDxd-YjAMTxp8EU-dsn5Ye2LfwmmCZImnu_rEhRLML1cLqg9Ox3vj00Xm4JUomWVtFEKU0fxCQTP09VoE8-BIF_8nZb7wQNDbDoLVLGh8Y9r3-aOJciO-Xi6a4p-WxyonqwbfM3/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-06-25+at+11.50.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyf2HAzPDxd-YjAMTxp8EU-dsn5Ye2LfwmmCZImnu_rEhRLML1cLqg9Ox3vj00Xm4JUomWVtFEKU0fxCQTP09VoE8-BIF_8nZb7wQNDbDoLVLGh8Y9r3-aOJciO-Xi6a4p-WxyonqwbfM3/s320/Screen+Shot+2014-06-25+at+11.50.43+AM.png" /></a></div>
<p>To say Buffalo, NY is home to one of the hardest working musicians of all time is understatement. Hard work is the hallmark of this town. And Bob Fera is no exception. In fact, he is the poster boy: playing and writing music, raising about a million kids and keeping up with family life, and all while holding down a full-time job. This man is no joke.</p>
<p>While it started in fall of 2013, Bob Fera has managed to complete his latest, self-titled, EP. Five songs featuring mostly Bob with some close friends that often join him on stage, this EP is definitely a good sampler of the man, myth, and legend of Bob Fera.</p>
<p>The most poignant part of this album is the voice. Mr. Fera can create a generous number of emotions that span from awkward lover watching from afar to proud father barely containing the feeling of excitement and loss at a daughter being married. This all is accompanied with an acoustic guitar to drive each track ably and without too much redundancy. The overlay of bass and electric guitars serve to prop up the acoustic and lend it support without becoming too obsequious. Drums are a little quiet and basic. Good as a bit-part, but nothing to write home about.</p>
<p>The song that immediately grabs you is the fourth track, "Watch You Fly". With some metaphor, it could be applied to lots of things, but it's clear this is a song from a father to a daughter. Well-written and thought out, this could be a wedding song for many looking to supplant that horrible father-daughter song John Mayer foisted upon us. Another notable is "Passing Bye Ghost" which comes off with a bit of mid-90's alt/adult contemporary feel.</p>
<p>While it's a short EP, Bob Fera will hopefully find some time in the near future to getting us something in the LP range. In the meantime, we should enjoy what we have.</p>
<p>Where to find it:</p>
<ul><li><a href = 'http://bobfera.bandcamp.com/releases' target = _new>BandCamp</a></li></ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://paulwesterberg.com/' target = _new>Paul Westerberg</a>, <a href = 'http://www.ginblossoms.net/' target = _new>The Gin Blossoms</a>, <a href = 'http://www.peteyorn.com/' target = _new>Pete Yorn</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-19513624731166430552013-12-16T14:59:00.001-05:002013-12-16T15:00:08.370-05:00Music Review - Jeh-sea Wells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnjm8ljibRfOyTS_kVdX0ymbXYW2DambByV4rZjjQLH_JJFQZtyfg9A_AuTaFHJiLLaoTquh9xYEKutnR0GTZedpvor_YC9UQ6uiNk6K573c-XeB9_91i_-pL5W4s-uYAPz_G3LuNNSqH/s1600/a1755361006_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnjm8ljibRfOyTS_kVdX0ymbXYW2DambByV4rZjjQLH_JJFQZtyfg9A_AuTaFHJiLLaoTquh9xYEKutnR0GTZedpvor_YC9UQ6uiNk6K573c-XeB9_91i_-pL5W4s-uYAPz_G3LuNNSqH/s320/a1755361006_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>It has been a long time since the lone acoustic singer-songwriter has attempted something with a little more gumption than "boy meets girl/girl leaves boy/boy writes lots of songs about it". Jeh-sea Wells seems to be moving back to the line of dark storytelling with the release of an EP entitled <i>When We Die</i>.
<p>Vocally, the influences of Cobain come to mind, but in a way that we can hear it is from the first generation of folks that were not quite of age when Mr. Cobain called it a night (or had the night called for him, if you prefer). It's also slightly reminiscent of the solo work of Jeremy Enigk, though more straightforward. The themes are dark, the voice is a bit haggard. There is a roughness at the edge of Wells' voice, but it doesn't break or crack when expected. He manages to hold that line well. The pain of each song is apparent, but with a smart resolution, an acceptance of reality, though it may seem dismal.</p>
<p>For the most part, the voice is accompanied only by itself and an acoustic guitar. No fancy string arrangements or keyboard overlays. Just a guitar. It's well-played and simple, but in a way that helps you to focus on the lyrics and let go of everything but the story of the song.</p>
<p>The EP kicks off with "And if the Sun is Real" and it sets the tone for an album that is reflective, but do not expect it to leave you feeling happy. A few of the songs (especially the back to back duo of "When we die" and "You Don't Know What It's Like") seem to get a bit redundant. By the end of the EP, the bleakness continues, but so does the desire to hear these songs again.</p>
<p>Where to Jeh-sea:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://thicksound.bandcamp.com/album/when-we-die' target = 'Bandcamp'>Bandcamp</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://thick-sound.restorm.com/' target = 'restorm'>Restorm</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://wasteyourdaysaway.com/' target = _new>Hayden</a>, <a href = 'http://www.cityandcolour.com/' target = _new>City and Colour</a>, <a href = 'http://www.jeremyenigk.com/' target = _new>Jeremy Enigk</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-24401303788926780362013-11-21T15:02:00.000-05:002013-11-21T15:02:24.808-05:00Music Review - Bad Religion's Christmas Songs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1JWCypymqMRyuIQ-kufrvpm0GaZXi67x3q15aF5l6WMx3mhhbDwHbb1L4pD5gX_Pzp-l_iD5mRUC0Fc7sR34A_xJ5iTO5nyp0JWJ4CidnFUt3ldy2u_Ek0aS9x41VqBJ910CEvWX6Ctu/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-11-21+at+2.54.57+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1JWCypymqMRyuIQ-kufrvpm0GaZXi67x3q15aF5l6WMx3mhhbDwHbb1L4pD5gX_Pzp-l_iD5mRUC0Fc7sR34A_xJ5iTO5nyp0JWJ4CidnFUt3ldy2u_Ek0aS9x41VqBJ910CEvWX6Ctu/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-11-21+at+2.54.57+PM.png" /></a></div>
<p>I'm really not sure what to say about this. It is literally an album of well known Christmas songs (and a remix of "American Jesus" thrown in for what can only be ironic purposes) by well-known punk-hardcore band Bad Religion. Yes...those guys with the famous crossbuster logo.</p>
<p>I think that sums it up. If you like Christmas music (I can't stand it) or you like Bad Religion (I'm a huge fan) or you want to confuse everyone you know who knows Bad Religion...buy this album.</p>
<p>This one is kinda goofy. It really has me at a loss for words.</p>
<p>Where to find it:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://www.epitaph.com/artists/album/691/Christmas_Songs' target = _new>Epitaph Records</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.badreligion.com/' target = _new>Bad Religion's Website</a></li>
<li>iTunes or Google Music Store</li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.badreligion.com/' target = _new>Bad Religion</a>, <a href = 'https://www.google.com/search?q=Christmas+Music&rlz=2C5CHFA_enUS0538US0538&oq=Christmas+Music&aqs=chrome..69i57j0j5j0.3301j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8' target = _new>Christmas Music</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-91553095441059502042013-09-18T10:02:00.000-04:002013-09-18T10:02:23.704-04:00Music Review - Mo Lowda and the Humble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvDEwtcNrJHV3Zypu-BzfC6y_xZibuK_nnRgKIO8fAvoNUgeWhQHwPU-WR49Wy0e4KMPQBIgqy-8Qq2NxqKBz8EOiJJU5LoqHEJ5-FBw8zts9FB8IlNIvHUjtkP26LMQ4RjVTRpMHawPq/s1600/a0320016994_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvDEwtcNrJHV3Zypu-BzfC6y_xZibuK_nnRgKIO8fAvoNUgeWhQHwPU-WR49Wy0e4KMPQBIgqy-8Qq2NxqKBz8EOiJJU5LoqHEJ5-FBw8zts9FB8IlNIvHUjtkP26LMQ4RjVTRpMHawPq/s320/a0320016994_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>First albums are often a jumping point. They can be a sign of what is to come and be a little rough around the edges. Not so with <i>Curse the Weather</i> from Mo Lowda and the Humble. This is their first full length release and it comes fully formed and utterly polished.</p>
<p>Identity can be an important part of a band's development. It seems Mo Lowda and the Humble have eschewed that in order to express more in the songs themselves. This diversity of style let's them branch out and find spaces that specific genre selection might hinder. This album shows them stretching a bit and finding those spaces. Production-wise, this is a decent album. It would be nice to hear the bass guitar and low-end a little more up front. The vocals and lead guitar are generally in the forefront. Even with this, the album as a whole is still a wonderful patchwork of songs that form a whole.</p>
<p>One of the big stands out with this album are the use of normally neglected instruments, such as the flute and saxophone back and forth play heard on "Where the Whitetails Go". But they also manage to kick around genres and play it all capably. Mo Lowda and the Humble can alt-rock it out ("Lost in You"), play something a bit more straight rock ("The Way Home"), or put something similar to a dark pop song out ("Curse the Weather"). Usually jumping around like this would be a distraction or a gimmick, but here the songs seem to coalesce to form a loose narrative that invites more innovation and more break outs.</p>
<p>If this is just a first full-length, this is a band that will likely skip the "sophomore curse" and we'll see a brilliant second effort when the time comes.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://molowdaandthehumble.bandcamp.com/album/curse-the-weather' target = _new>BandCamp (listen free or toss them the $5 for the download)</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.reverbnation.com/molowdathehumble' target = _new>Reverb Nation</a></li>
<li><a href = 'https://soundcloud.com/mo-lowda-and-the-humble' target = _new>SoundCloud</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://citizencope.com/' target = _new>Citizen Cope</a>, <a href = 'http://philadelphonic.com/' target = _new>G Love & Special Sauce</a>, <a href = 'http://supersoaker.kingsofleon.com/' target = _new>Kings of Leon</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-88380716807161145402013-08-12T14:45:00.001-04:002013-08-12T14:46:06.551-04:00Music Review - Ian Marquis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsN4gabEFbEKt6XL7oNdPWj6tOjkUO_sMUTFWi0OsZ834E0-pHr28E2PflcvyxtNVlQLaPtx-qQgnXv_ezj2ZLUn8lWTXiMmRZQNbQs4xwZs3fPAo8zVro8EaDZCXDPUtGR_xlf5EmaLN/s1600/a0526114243_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsN4gabEFbEKt6XL7oNdPWj6tOjkUO_sMUTFWi0OsZ834E0-pHr28E2PflcvyxtNVlQLaPtx-qQgnXv_ezj2ZLUn8lWTXiMmRZQNbQs4xwZs3fPAo8zVro8EaDZCXDPUtGR_xlf5EmaLN/s320/a0526114243_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>Ian Marquis is a solo-artist extraordinaire. Playing all the instruments once again on his latest release <i>Faces from the Static</i>, Ian has moved a little away from the harder sounds on previous efforts and really embraced the 80's new wave sound that lead to the harder sounds of later bands.</p>
<p>This new album sees the marriage of two influences it seems: the industrial sounds of the 90's and it's technologies and the poppier sounds of new wave from the 80's (which of course gave birth to the former). With a good sense of production and each piece is in the right place. The only draw back in regard to instrumentation is Ian's voice, which can seemed strained at times, monotonous at others. This is rare though, and overall, it's the right voice in the right place.</p>
<p>The songs that majorly stand out as exceeding expectations on this album are "Everybody Plays to Win", a sonic anthem with an odd Brit-Techno-Pop feel to it, and, the real new-wave hit, "Paper Hearts / Paper Friends", which has some of the most poignant, cutting lyrics on the album. These songs would be the radio hits, if radio was still a thing, and would make the club remix scene without doubt. The real dynamic tunage, though, comes with "I Know Better (We Are Broken)", where Mr. Marquis stretches over all genres and makes a rocking/techno/pop/guitar/piano/alt hit. This is hopefully a direction to be further explored.</p>
<p>Where to find:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://ianmarquismusic.com/album/faces-from-the-static' target = _new>His Website</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.stabbingwestward.com/' target = _new>Stabbing Westward</a>, <a href = 'http://www.thewombats.co.uk/' target = _new>The Wombats</a>, <a href = 'http://elliegoulding.com/' target = _new>Ellie Goulding</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-36144356698894593072013-07-10T10:51:00.000-04:002013-07-10T10:51:10.246-04:00Music Review - Golden BC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTC8vgstggUg6HPj5nO2q_jC5rqchvp34kqHMlnXsPJ9FmrfSo295eZEp3Gs80MIIP4lAkDI-3Mh0EnWfsbnRptN2tWJ9byw-IdeDSn4uEr57sR4trf_C95dYRAPVxz_qiw5hG6giBnHYs/s1600/a4094448748_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTC8vgstggUg6HPj5nO2q_jC5rqchvp34kqHMlnXsPJ9FmrfSo295eZEp3Gs80MIIP4lAkDI-3Mh0EnWfsbnRptN2tWJ9byw-IdeDSn4uEr57sR4trf_C95dYRAPVxz_qiw5hG6giBnHYs/s320/a4094448748_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>In finding new artists, it often takes some digging. Luckily there are sites such as <a href = "http://bandcamp.com" target = _new>BandCamp</a> that make this endless search a little easier. It was here that Golden BC can be found, with a new release of a 5 song EP simply titled <i>Golden BC - Sampler</i></p>
<p>Hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Golden BC is a single man show. Brian Offredi plays all instruments on the album, commits all the vocals, writes all the songs, and does all the promotion. The interesting thing here is it appears these songs are recorded with mostly live instruments, making Golden BC stand out by not exploiting beat packs and other silly electronic drum tricks.</p>
<p>The voice here is the standout instrument. Brian's vocals are reminiscent of a low, methadone-induced gothic moaning whisper. At times sparse with desperation, at other times quiet with urgency, the vocals are the story teller on each of the five songs presented in <i>Sampler</i>. This is not to say the guitar work is not quite good as well. The percussion is, well, simple, but as there is one person doing all the playing, we can let that slide a bit.</p>
<p>With an EP of this size it's easy to mention every song. The record kicks off with "Afraid to Wake Up", a seeming call out to the life of staying high and letting that be a shield to living up to one's potential. This may have been recorded a bit more hastily than the other songs on the EP, it seems rushed and a bit less polished than the others. It was a rough song to start with, perhaps a bit of a gamble. "I'm Not the One You Want" seems to showcase more of what Golden BC should be known for. Understated instrumentation and a vocal line that showcases the pain of love wanted but perceived as not good enough. This theme carries over to the next track, "Maria", which is a bit of a lazy slog pinpointing the best and worse of a relationship. "Don't Ever Bet Against A Man On His Way Out" is a Louisiana pub owners dream. A down home stomper that tells of how a person can't lose when there is nothing left to lose. The final track, "Memories Lie", is probably the best produced of the EP, from a sound perspective. It breaks away from some of the desperation in the previous three songs. Unfortunately, leaving that pocket takes away from the feel of the songs overall and perhaps the middle three show the strength of Golden BC.</p>
<p>After a full run through, the best parts of the music are the three songs in the middle. These seem most representative of what should be "Sampled" from Golden BC and it would be good to look forward to more songs along those lines.</p>
<p>Where to find Golden BC</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = "http://goldenbc.bandcamp.com/" target = _new>Bandcamp</a>(free download)</li>
<li><a href = "http://goldenbc.org/" target = _new>Golden BC website</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.hopesandoval.com/music/mazzystar.shtml' target = _new>Mazzy Star</a>, <a href = 'http://www.cityandcolour.com/' target = _new>City and Colour</a>, <a href = 'http://geronhoy.com/' target = _new>Geron Hoy</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-17175352942976182782013-06-07T10:34:00.000-04:002013-06-07T10:34:11.838-04:00Music Review - American Stories<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvMiP-RLlfcpcOlk2Qh_fSwKXV4sKZn5cd3EFn4vK5JQTtJGu1f4rm2jKkY6yCrXkA0VQ98rXguwzGGHzWrZeHN2K5XEUDrxWGJRe8L_sQuPhqaL9412LYkbjd1MqgKgnqt3EJrWXZUMK/s1600/3974feb05ec846cc997335b6dedf85b566b775eb.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvMiP-RLlfcpcOlk2Qh_fSwKXV4sKZn5cd3EFn4vK5JQTtJGu1f4rm2jKkY6yCrXkA0VQ98rXguwzGGHzWrZeHN2K5XEUDrxWGJRe8L_sQuPhqaL9412LYkbjd1MqgKgnqt3EJrWXZUMK/s320/3974feb05ec846cc997335b6dedf85b566b775eb.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<p>Assuming American Stories is a an Americana band would far too one-dimensional. An Americana/punk-influenced/Adult Alternative band might be something closer to the mark...though it still falls short of what they've offered up on the latest.</p>
<p>The new album, <i>Where the Grass is Green</i> is their first as a full band. There are some songs rehashed from their previous effort, <i>Prelude</i> but the new arrangements do nothing to detract from the sound of the songs. If anything, the addition of a second guitar and a full time bassist, as well the exploration of other instruments like ukelele, keyboards, and mandolins, brings a fuller sound to the stories previously told.</p>
<p>Stand out songs on this album include "Sing Along with me California (Interlude 1)", a song that matches vocals to music succinctly and shows a bit of that feel of "we used to be punk rockers, but we are quieter now, yet still a bit pissed off". Many of these songs seem to be observations on the transitions that occur for many musicians and their styles change and their lives start to break in on the music itself. "City of Angels" is another song that strikes a chord with traveling musicians. It shows the expansiveness of the band and the rekindling of songs with new sounds. "Halfmast", originally recorded on <i>Prelude</i> is still probably the best piece of story telling on the album and probably the most radio ready track.</p>
<p>At the end of the day, this isn't just americana and it isn't just an album for musicians to enjoy. This is a great group of musicians showing the level of their craftsmanship at this stage of the game. A different stage than their roots, but a good place to be.</p>
<p>Where to find them</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = "http://open.spotify.com/artist/2BSxrXi3uNO3N3xYR5drwk" target = _new>Spotify</a></li>
<li><a href = "http://www.rdio.com/artist/American_Stories/album/Where_the_Grass_Is_Green/" target = _new>Rdio</a></li>
<li><a href = "http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D8HRJVU/ref=sr_1_album_2_rd" target = _new>Amazon</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = "http://s88077090.onlinehome.us/10Cent/?page_id=2/?page_id=2" target = _new>10 Cent Howl</a>, <a href = "http://dirtyrivermerch.bigcartel.com/" target = _new>The Dirty River Boys</a>, <a href = "http://paulwesterberg.com/" target = _new>Paul Westerberg</a></p>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-27354492790220725222013-05-06T12:15:00.001-04:002013-05-06T12:15:16.467-04:00Music Review - Ten Cent Howl<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6oNLoM5cQYZVZwDHHXPutmdSn6JmBmiZ01WYtAB5yfA0E104wILdMVNnh1EEypKBdfRhWmHOWHJXW_X4SiAKmlVc4G6IZ0rcqukXDQ997gz7X-WuMElay7dZNna_PJg8DxY9jQ60AH47/s1600/ten_cent_howl.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6oNLoM5cQYZVZwDHHXPutmdSn6JmBmiZ01WYtAB5yfA0E104wILdMVNnh1EEypKBdfRhWmHOWHJXW_X4SiAKmlVc4G6IZ0rcqukXDQ997gz7X-WuMElay7dZNna_PJg8DxY9jQ60AH47/s320/ten_cent_howl.jpg" /></a>
<p>Seems every trumped up pop-band playing acoustically with a little bit of banjo or mandolin are calling themselves Americana these days. Ten Cent Howl is an exception to this rule. These folks are rocking hard, but the feel is definitely what Americana is all about. Like the Osmonds, Ten Cent Howl is a little bit country and a little bit Rock-n-Roll.</p>
<p>Continuing to push their latest music independently, Ten Cent Howl has brought another 11 songs to the modern vision of American splendor in a modern world. The first eleven songs featured in the widget on their <a href = 'http://www.tencenthowl.com/' target = _new>home page</a> represent their "new album". What a modern world we live in, indeed.</p>
<p>With brooding vocals to match the dark chord strumming of an acoustic guitar, TCH is driven by the melodies of the words and the music, where the attention to detail shines through. A steady bass carries that low-end and ties in the drums and percussion. These two pieces form a pocket the guitar and vocals feel free to build on. Add to that a number of extra instruments brought in to round out the sound and you have a finely played album.</p>
<p>Kicking off with "Bourbon Sea", this collection of songs is often deceivingly upbeat. That is, until you listen to the lyrics. Each song has a fecundity of ennui as experienced in a straight forward life. The protagonists found in these songs are striving for a sense of perfection without accepting that perfection is so far away. This is re-enforced in songs like "End of the World" and "Downtime". These are songs that remind us of love lost, love never tried for, and the feeling of the open road, the back-handed compliment it makes of being for everyone and utterly lonely all at once. That's, what Americana should be. That's what Ten Cent Howl is.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li>Their <a href = 'http://www.tencenthowl.com/' target = _new>home page</a></li>
<li>Their <a href = 'http://www.reverbnation.com/tencenthowl' target = _new>ReverbNation Page</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://dirtyrivermerch.bigcartel.com/' target = _new >The Dirty River Boys</a>, <a href = 'http://www.johnfogerty.com/' target = _new >John Fogerty</a>, <a href = 'http://www.johnnycash.com/' target = _new >Johnny Cash</a>>/p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-83850207793440230542013-04-11T16:36:00.000-04:002013-04-11T16:36:06.595-04:00Music Review - TTNG - 13.0.0.0.0<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOnIPLzmmCBZ3uUTScLeYvuLV2KejwDVJc0u6SGH5XP14M5xwljIQVFFtez01m4LHE-sCvBu_0zfGLCX0FJ0ZeuF4kn7smBMou9cHsvef1K7P2Ktq9cax-Ue5xJ8Yy-aIsK2AN4TsPY74/s1600/00.+This+Town+Needs+Guns+-+13%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOnIPLzmmCBZ3uUTScLeYvuLV2KejwDVJc0u6SGH5XP14M5xwljIQVFFtez01m4LHE-sCvBu_0zfGLCX0FJ0ZeuF4kn7smBMou9cHsvef1K7P2Ktq9cax-Ue5xJ8Yy-aIsK2AN4TsPY74/s320/00.+This+Town+Needs+Guns+-+13%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0%E2%80%8B.%E2%80%8B0.png" /></a>
<p>With lots of lineup changes and even a change in name (kinda, going from This Town Needs Guns to TTNG), consistency is not what the math rock (now) power trio from Oxford would be known for. With a melodic and percussive sound underscored by lamenting (dare I say emo?) vocals, the one thing TTNG proves on their latest release <i>13.0.0.0.0</i> is they can consistently deliver solid tunes.</p>
<p>There were concerns that the move from a quartet to a trio with the main vocalist leaving might lead to a drastic change. As the one remaining original member, Tim Collis, is still the driving force behind the writing, the sound of the band itself still contains the expected percussive tap-on sound. The drums on this album seem a bit more pedestrian and reigned-in compared to earlier drummers on earlier albums. Whether this was a production choice or an individual style is unclear but the frenetic, raw emotion seen on Animals is noticeably missing. The vocals are a bit less persistent on this album and leave a bit of a filling in the blanks feeling compared to the urgency of earlier vocalists.</p>
<p>Stand out tunes on this album are without doubt "Cat Fantastic", which leads off the album with a transition from the previous album seemingly. The quietness of "Nice Riff, Clichard" brings a solemn note into the mix and it's a good mid-album resting point, though and "Triptych" is a call back to previous work from TTNG.</p>
<p>When all is said and done, <i>13.0.0.0.0</i> is good follow-up for a long awaited band that some thought we might not hear from. The important word here is <i>good</i> not <i><b>great</b></i>.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li>the entire album is streaming on <a href = 'http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4meXe1UxiY' target = _new>YouTube</a></li>
<li>iTunes</li>
<li><a href = 'https://soundcloud.com/this-town-needs-guns' target = _new>SoundCloud</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL:<a href = 'http://www.polyvinylrecords.com/artists/index.php?id=276' target = _new>American Football</a>, <a href = 'http://www.toe.st/' target = _new>Toe</a>, <a href = 'http://www.myspace.com/dallasgreen' target = _new>City and Colour</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-15826878345270624552013-02-18T13:13:00.000-05:002013-02-18T13:15:12.504-05:00MUSIC REVIEW - Doctor Dirty Sanchez<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSo_eAYFqcE2VKfC0idOss-RrH3Igi1vMZSCzwq9fjGLaFbgVBhhYsvef1r_Lk9Sm7By5EbaSSprAfATy_jA99jbfL8DzpKpl_T-irpOPpj3jQV5kdbKjMmGhZzhC8wq31aLZprtR3MFbx/s1600/3278897660-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSo_eAYFqcE2VKfC0idOss-RrH3Igi1vMZSCzwq9fjGLaFbgVBhhYsvef1r_Lk9Sm7By5EbaSSprAfATy_jA99jbfL8DzpKpl_T-irpOPpj3jQV5kdbKjMmGhZzhC8wq31aLZprtR3MFbx/s320/3278897660-1.jpeg" /></a>
<p>It's hard to believe it's been 10 years (at least) since Dr. Dirty Sanchez have graced a stage together. Part of Buffalo's punk and hardcore resurgence in the early 2000's, DDS have given us one last gem to sit back and enjoy. After years sitting unfinished, Greg, Tim, Phil, and Jesse have released <i>Prepare for the Worse</i> - a misnomer if ever there was one.</p>
<p>Let's start by looking at the instrumentation. Greg and Tim keep the guitars super tight, with a guttural growl over Phil's clean and clear basslines that hold down every song. Then comes, Jesse: one of Buffalo's most accomplished and versatile (and bloody fast) drummers. These guys were tight. Every line is followed and every beat is rock solid. There is some datedness in the sound on the recording. The drums are often too far in the background with the bass holding up the rhythm section's weight by being up front. Vocals are well placed and clear regardless of who's singing or providing the oohs and aahs.</p>
<p>It's easy to see how this album will be a fun trip down memory lane for folks into pop-punk and hardcore in their youth. (FULL DISCLOSURE: I remember having tons of fun playing shows with these whack-jobs. If only this could be a DVD). Songs like "Make Up My Mind" and "Missing Nuns" are fun, the type of fun that makes you want to run around and light things on fire...you know, like you did when you were a kid and the punk show didn't start until the sun went down. The title track shows a bit more of the hardcore roots of the band and the scene that spawned them.</p>
<p>The only drawbacks of this album is that (a) there will be no more albums after this and (b) there will be no shows to go to in order to see the songs performed live. Alas...Dr. Dirty Sanchez is in fact a blast from the past. But we should all be thankful, they gave us one last backflip off the amp stacks to enjoy.</p>
<p>Where to get it:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href= 'http://drdirtysanchez.bandcamp.com/' target = _new>BandCamp</a>(name your price!!)</li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.subpop.com/artists/seaweed' target - _new>Seaweed</a>, <a href = 'http://descendents.tumblr.com/' target - _new>The Descendents</a>, <a href = 'http://www.snapcase.com/' target - _new>Snapcase</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-48956646715323995832013-01-18T11:13:00.000-05:002013-01-18T11:13:40.928-05:00Music Review - Bad Religion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2VjhJ1DyuLg0JfJEi5lSldJNmFfCZk9QxdXnm-u1I2n0L2c14ZwlOuEuWitoBNeLHZCHfBKB0CSFUPCHaIFXIjl67GO2dWEomghSabcCP6tbZWqISubjzy1oM5sY06kbaJwOmnHzw9JA/s1600/imgres.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2VjhJ1DyuLg0JfJEi5lSldJNmFfCZk9QxdXnm-u1I2n0L2c14ZwlOuEuWitoBNeLHZCHfBKB0CSFUPCHaIFXIjl67GO2dWEomghSabcCP6tbZWqISubjzy1oM5sY06kbaJwOmnHzw9JA/s320/imgres.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>Bad Religion is easily one of the longest running bands in history. Technically, only one member has been in the band since it's inception in 1979 (singer, Greg Graffin), but there are six current members and they continue to make music that remains against the grain.</p>
<p>Their latest, <i>True North</i> remains in the vein of there albums since about 2000. The songs are all good, solid guitars (they should be as there are 3 guitarists now), killer beats courtesy of Brooks Wackerman, and always foundational bass lines from Jay Bentley. Vocals, both the lead vocals and the "oohs and ahs" Bad Religion is so well known for, are all right as expected.</p>
<p>The concern here is that, as they get older, will they slow down? Thus far, it doesn't seem to be the case. Songs like "Robin Hood" and "Land of Endless Greed" show there is still a stance against the oligarchy and consumerism of corporatized American life. And they are still punk rock enough to have a song called "Fuck You".</p>
<p>The problem here is that album seems to get a bit flatter around the middle. This has been the case with the last few Bad Religion albums: as if the songs were written well, but half way through they become just filler (see "Dharma and The Bomb" and "Hello Cruel World"). Perhaps it would be better if they released EPs instead of full albums.</p>
<p>That said, all in all, the world of music, and in general, is a better place for Bad Religion being in it.</p>
<p>Where to find <i>True North</i>:</p>
<ul>
<li>in true punk fashion, the full album is streaming for free on <a href = 'http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nLD8Bbt9G0&list=PLcZMZxR9uxC9p8PGRKHnd0B4FItvsq1u_' target = _new>YouTube</a></li>
<li>Available for pre-order from the <a href= 'http://www.kingsroadmerch.com/bad-religion/region/' target = _ new>Bad Religion Store</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.nofxofficialwebsite.com' target = _new>NoFX</a>, <a href = 'http://www.offspring.com' target = _new>Offspring</a>, <a href = 'http://rancidrancid.com/' target = _new>Rancid</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-67119776481227120772012-10-25T11:24:00.000-04:002012-10-25T11:24:25.474-04:00Music Review - Float the Witch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQj_8jE7h9NEhW6SbIvYO7kJ8_QGQy3KCUzHz3ya4hIB8BqpyxayH_Uixho5SjjkOXLndOyDSfHCSg3jf6aQGFCbJsIeWjhAxRihuKeRizBThUx_Kx8tKYz9lOR0ji3ZA2TZ9rlSf0sRDJ/s1600/1384542742-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQj_8jE7h9NEhW6SbIvYO7kJ8_QGQy3KCUzHz3ya4hIB8BqpyxayH_Uixho5SjjkOXLndOyDSfHCSg3jf6aQGFCbJsIeWjhAxRihuKeRizBThUx_Kx8tKYz9lOR0ji3ZA2TZ9rlSf0sRDJ/s320/1384542742-1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>The mid-90's was really an epic time for the female fronted alt-rock band. Blake Babies, Belly, Juliana Hatfield, Liz Phair...the list goes on. Float the Witch seem to very much want to carry on in this vein and their self-titled EP really sets the tone.</p>
<p>The immediate grab starts on the first track, "Meridian" with a lilting, almost celtic voice that wouldn't be too far from many of the vocal performances heard on the radio program <a href = 'http://thistleradio.com/' target = _new>Thistle and Shamrock</a>. That all changes as you realize this band can actually rock out. It's not all simple acoustic ditties. The energy (and guitars and bass and full kit drums) are whipped out right in the next track, "The Abyss Gazes Back". This is a straightforward rocker, compared to "Le Miroir" a french inspired (and vocalized) surf rock song.</p>
<p>If there is one drawback to Float the Witch it is the seeming lack of direction. The music is eclectic, which is not bad, but can seem scatter-brained, even within the structure of a single song. The production value is decent for a first recording and the sincerity is apparent in every song.</p>
<p>This being a valiant effort, hopefully we will see a full length soon from Float the Witch.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://floatthewitch.bandcamp.com/' target _new>Bandcamp</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.floatthewitch.com/#!home/c9a0' target = _new>Their Website</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.julianahatfield.com/' target = _new>Juliana Hatfield</a>, <a href = 'http://decemberists.com/' target = _new>Decemberists</a>, <a href = 'http://swans.pair.com/' target = _new>Swans</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-14271204676542787122012-10-16T17:00:00.000-04:002012-10-16T17:00:46.609-04:00Music Review - Coheed and Cambria<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIdEBb5F9p6kTiRcnk629C4A5MTRyeJ8LGoBgnZRK-MCMIUFXZ8upIaAVvvB6WxjOlUV_E-5YcrKMGvHz2CFA1JSFMXbLgHWRdR1hwvN12ZWKyGh5C4yY-gn1QAAaITodCgNY0-PRJm8B/s1600/coheed_afterman1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIdEBb5F9p6kTiRcnk629C4A5MTRyeJ8LGoBgnZRK-MCMIUFXZ8upIaAVvvB6WxjOlUV_E-5YcrKMGvHz2CFA1JSFMXbLgHWRdR1hwvN12ZWKyGh5C4yY-gn1QAAaITodCgNY0-PRJm8B/s320/coheed_afterman1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>It's tough to go back to something that was once so great. Remembering the first listen through of <i>The Second Stage Turbine Blade</i> or <i>In Keeping Secrets of the Silent Earth 3</i> and the jolt of originality and fresh ideas, this is what was hoped for in Coheed and Cambria's latest release <i>The Afterman: Ascension</i>.</p>
<p>For those of us keeping score on the storyline, <i>Afterman</i> is the first part of a two-part album (the second half is promised in February 2013) and is the prequel to the story of the characters Coheed and Cambria and their children. I know <i>Year of the Black Rainbow</i> was also a prequel, but the story has a definite end...so apparently now we must find the true beginning.</p>
<p>It's seems as time has passed, Coheed has become overly polished. The story is definitely more concise, and the playing is on point, although it seems we've moved further from roaring guitars with keyboard accents to more of a keyboard focus. It would be a good sacrifice to lose some continuity in order to get some edge back. After going through the tunes of <i>Afterman</i> it seems these albums have become formula. Starting with a somewhat instrumental tune ("Hollow", parallel to "Keeping the Blade" on <i>Good Apollo</i> or "One" on <i>Black Rainbow</i>), followed by the big anthemic song ("Key Entity Extraction I: Domino the Destitute", parallel to "Welcome Home" on <i>Good Apollo</i> or "The Broken" on <i>Black Rainbow</i>), and the obligatory slow jam ("Subtraction", parallel to "Wake Up" on <i>Good Apollo</i> or "Pearl of the Stars" on <i>Black Rainbow</i>)...we begin to see that there is a pattern. This may be the intent of the story teller, but if so, we are losing out on better music in order to ensure a pocket pattern is formed.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, this is not the triumphant return of Coheed we may have hoped for...but hope still shines...perhaps they can break the chain in February with the second part, <i>The Afterman: Descension</i>.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://coheedandcambria.cinderblock.com/the-afterman-ascension-2012-album-download.html' target = _new>Their Website</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.apple.com/itunes/charts/albums/' target = _new>iTunes</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href ='http://www.protomen.com/' target = _new>The Protomen</a>, <a href ='http://theused.net/' target = _new>The Used</a>, <a href ='http://www.rush.com' target = _new>Rush</a></p>
<hr noshade>
<a href='http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000028007181&pid=UBM9781608860357&adurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdsbooksdvds.com%2Fproduct.jhtm%3Fsku%3DUBM9781608860357&usg=AFHzDLvo0CJ8HYhwtnmD6rTsSvrdhsZpyw&pubid=586829' rel='nofollow'>The Amory Wars 1 Ultimate Edition By Sanchez, Claudio/ Guzman, Gabriel (ILT)/ Vasquez, Gus (ILT) (Google Affiliate Ad)</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-70940018705463414262012-10-07T19:18:00.002-04:002012-10-07T19:19:34.389-04:00Music Review - The Dirty River Boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ2tLq1i220IA1r9RgFygmHu-Om4boPfjj3BHOZWRCuQkCqstdpKoXyI1U0qSeZav6jgPE4RlYtwVqyG4o_4J58LeW8lv2lMdi8ADhH3VsOhiF0WqF4mbIlVJSB1En5M8S1bKVY8-KHOF/s1600/science-of-flight-cd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="288" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ2tLq1i220IA1r9RgFygmHu-Om4boPfjj3BHOZWRCuQkCqstdpKoXyI1U0qSeZav6jgPE4RlYtwVqyG4o_4J58LeW8lv2lMdi8ADhH3VsOhiF0WqF4mbIlVJSB1En5M8S1bKVY8-KHOF/s320/science-of-flight-cd.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>A lot of folks bandy about the words "Americana" or "New Country" these days. Few groups are able to capture that pure Appalachian zeal. The Dirty River Boys have no problem finding that down home, cottage porch sound though. No problem at all.</p>
<p> From the opening track of their latest effort, <i>Science of Flight</i>, The Dirty River Boys take us to a simpler time in music, a time when it wasn't about raucous distortion, but it was about the story itself. There are complexities and inter-workings in the instrumentation that make it seem like they've just picked up together at the local music stand to play a few standards, but the songs themselves are anything but standard.</p>
<p>The mastery of the instrumentation here is what's important. The scratchiness of long lost Grand Ole Opry recordings is missing, but that's about it. Too polished? Not necessarily, the jangle and back beat make you forget this isn't some digitally remastered coal mining hill band. Guitars move us along, fiddles are well played, and the vocals make you feel like you know these folks, you'd be willing to sit back and have a beer with them after a long working week. Let's hope they put more out for our listening pleasure soon!</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li>Their <a href = 'http://dirtyrivermerch.bigcartel.com/' target = _new>website</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.itunes.com/thedirtyriverboys/' target = _new>iTunes</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.youtube.com/TheDRBvideo' target = _new>YouTube</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.mumfordandsons.com' target = _new>Mumford & Sons</a>, <a href = 'http://s88077090.onlinehome.us/10Cent/?page_id=2/?page_id=2' target = _new>Ten Cent Howl</a>, <a href = 'http://www.johnnycash.com' target = _new>Johnny Cash</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-88311882613039684292012-09-23T11:59:00.000-04:002012-09-23T11:59:47.298-04:00Music Review - Sledding with Tigers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ6InS-0LPF8u5wwy9aOWbKJLbPSb90UhIdFHS1uo0w7N3aKMpd-hc6IqWSi5B5T5GiV-ebOBfPDMHTjwrgDIf2HJ_RwDEvG0KgUQcHfi7JKnlZl8-K_C99Z4BBQSYOXyjzMzWZMg_xyw/s1600/cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ6InS-0LPF8u5wwy9aOWbKJLbPSb90UhIdFHS1uo0w7N3aKMpd-hc6IqWSi5B5T5GiV-ebOBfPDMHTjwrgDIf2HJ_RwDEvG0KgUQcHfi7JKnlZl8-K_C99Z4BBQSYOXyjzMzWZMg_xyw/s320/cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>Sledding with Tigers are nothing if not prolific and ever-evolving. When we first experienced this band, it was a solo acoustic punk act with a teenage angst that was real and palpable. But we all get older and change a bit. We leave college, get jobs, change tastes...it's part of a social evolution called "being a grown up".</p>
<p>Along comes the latest album from Sledding with Tigers, <i>Being Nice is Still Cool</i>, where we see a move away from the punkier tunes of their earlier days into a sweeter, more rounded punk/Americana sound, self-described as "I'm not punk enough for punk and I'm not folk enough for folk". Imagine The Descendents decided to soften a bit and go acoustic, add a fiddle...picture it. Now you have the lastest Sledding with Tigers album.</p>
<p>No need to worry...the relatable lyrics are still there, the raucous, rolling guitar hasn't left, the group-yell choruses have remained intact. What is added is some saavy to using the fun stuff in a studio. Distortion on vocals ("A Floppy Disc Worth of Singing"), a straight-up pop song ("Homeless"), and mix of everything to kick the whole thing off ("Quit Yr Job"). All this gets put together to make for the best SWT has to offer thus far.</p>
<p>Where to find this album:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://sleddingwithtigers.com/' target = _new>SWT Website</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = "http://ben-lee.com/" target = _new>Ben Lee</a>, <a href = 'http://www.descendentsonline.com/' target = _new>The Descendents</a>, <a href = 'http://americanstories.bandcamp.com/' target = _new>American Stories</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-45559087529096716762012-09-13T08:38:00.000-04:002012-09-13T08:38:10.751-04:00Music Review - NoFX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiJLc9WxJ274T1ChZdXugQgCkxP8EAamO9lBX9G5GyV_K5zH1MMaNO4hku9fkfnYS8gzE4yTuwsrA26CL_s2FLqKaU_v2yxpQhQZ3z7ZfJGiQmBK3px9_vEoUeyhrTZ5zQJY165_bZPAa/s1600/SelfEntitled_300dpi_1500_rgb__22043_zoom.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiJLc9WxJ274T1ChZdXugQgCkxP8EAamO9lBX9G5GyV_K5zH1MMaNO4hku9fkfnYS8gzE4yTuwsrA26CL_s2FLqKaU_v2yxpQhQZ3z7ZfJGiQmBK3px9_vEoUeyhrTZ5zQJY165_bZPAa/s320/SelfEntitled_300dpi_1500_rgb__22043_zoom.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>For nearly thirty years now, NoFX has been entertaining and shocking audiences and fans around the world. No one can ever question their dedication, their drive, their ability to make dick jokes, or their stance on issues, be they social, political, or pornographical. And after nearly 30 years, they still have it.</p>
<p>Their twelfth studio full length and latest in a long line of releases that includes EPs splits, special 7" records, and various compilations, <i>Self Entitled</i> is a reassurance that they have in no way lost their edge after all this time. The guitars of El Hefe and Eric Melvin are still fast and loud, Fat Mike's voice is still that perfect punk rock crappiness that says "I can sing, I'm just not that good at it"...and then there is Smelly.</p>
<p>FULL DISCLOSURE: Eric "Smelly" Sandin is one of my favorite drummers of all time. I seriously put him up there with the likes of Max Roach, Buddy Rich, Max Weinberg, and Bobby Schayer. But he's faster. He makes Travis Barker look like a flashy poseur. And on the new album, he proves that speed can be interspersed with breakdowns to make diversity.</p>
<p>If there is one thing that stands out as a negative on this album it would be that it sounds more polished than most NoFX albums. The production is clearly high-end, or at least higher-end than we've come to expect from a punk rock album.</p>
<p>It's hard to pick the stand-outs on this album. It has a great flow to it, starting with a kick in the face on "72 Hookers" (an actual solution to bring about world peace?) right on through the hilarious yet poignant "Ronnie & Mags" to my personal favorite, perhaps because of the spoken word portion praising Fat Mike for being right, "My Sycophant Others". This album is a complete package that is most reminiscent of <i>White Trash, Two Heebs, and A Bean</i>.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://www.fatwreck.com/record/detail/777' target = _new>Fat Wreck Chords site</a></li>
<li>iTunes</li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_4?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=nofx+self+entitled&sprefix=NoFX%2Caps%2C184' target = _new>Amazon</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.badreligion.com/' target = _new>Bad Religion</a>, <a href = 'http://www.descendentsonline.com/' target = _new>The Descendents</a>, <a href = 'http://rancidrancid.com/' target = _new>Rancid</a></p>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-36967288662117741832012-08-17T14:35:00.000-04:002012-08-17T14:35:41.421-04:00Music Review - Bloc Party - Four<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluPkLFbLRta2GHRKUZ4a9qb7-GJWFEn3bBHJmcl5DSp-2yoHo7CpaA_V3nBWyzaPnd1vSh8-Oh9ZeUMyKzRe_btH830w7ydnn96QBgJfhfJxE_7x1yfUCNwUxB6gkfGSjmHr5Fd0kaLvZ/s1600/imgres.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluPkLFbLRta2GHRKUZ4a9qb7-GJWFEn3bBHJmcl5DSp-2yoHo7CpaA_V3nBWyzaPnd1vSh8-Oh9ZeUMyKzRe_btH830w7ydnn96QBgJfhfJxE_7x1yfUCNwUxB6gkfGSjmHr5Fd0kaLvZ/s320/imgres.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>It's been years. There were solo projects (for Kele at least)...there were reunion shows...there were interviews and radio reports and everything. But next week, we will have the long awaited new album from Bloc Party, <i>Four</i>. Now that it arrives next week, it's easy to see the wait was worth it.</p>
<p>With a week left before release, Bloc Party has elected to stream the entire album on their site, a great boon to fans who just can't wait another week. It may not be what some people were expecting. The sound is cleaner than their first two albums, yet more characteristics of those albums than <i>Intimacy</i>, an album that carried the same Bloc Party edge and angst but was a bit over the top noise wise.</p>
<p>So where does <i>Four</i> find our foursome? A little more mature...a little darker...in a place where antics meet adulthood. The edge is still there, there is still anger and something to feel strongly about. There is no better example of this than "Coliseum", a song that starts of with a country twang before attacking with a full on hardcore blitz, lyrics searing throughout with bitterness at the established and the longstanding.</p>
<p>This doesn't mean there aren't the expected songs of tragedy and love and growing together. It just seems that as time has gone on, the realization that the party isn't over but enjoyable without so much chemical stimulation has occurred to our not-so humble narrator. Songs like "3x3" and "V.A.L.I.S." demonstrate this clearly. It cannot be doubted that Bloc Party is just as tight as they have been in the past. Musically, everything flows together as a movement, driven by the drumbeats, the guitars and bass pull it all together to give the vocals are clear base to rise from.</p>
<p>With <i>Four</i>, Bloc Party has managed to move past many of their counterparts who were unable to grow even a little bit. This album is hopefully a taste of what is to come...hopefully there will be a <i>Five</i>.
<p>Where to find <i>Four</i>:</p>
<ul>
<li>on their <a href = 'http://four.blocparty.com/#intro' target = _new>site</a></li>
<li>Preorder on Amazon and iTunes</li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = "http://www.weareaugustines.com" target = _new>We Are Augustines</a>, <a href = "http://muse.mu" target = _new>Muse</a>, <a href = 'http://cloudnothings.com' target = _new>Cloud Nothings</a></p>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-21526880335714570552012-05-30T10:13:00.000-04:002012-05-30T10:13:34.460-04:00Music Review - Ten Cent Howl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNj62uEHTWUjtmqNSUEQNf1My2odZMHNz54mbX-D2j7bBXj44W2hZggoR80JjLlBOFOQKWjv-85GiXx-m3UKkhlln6kFgKSv3iFV6bm-CTfxfUa-kCfefSXSzGQBiPPrZsMSM0WdDG7nAz/s1600/downtime_cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNj62uEHTWUjtmqNSUEQNf1My2odZMHNz54mbX-D2j7bBXj44W2hZggoR80JjLlBOFOQKWjv-85GiXx-m3UKkhlln6kFgKSv3iFV6bm-CTfxfUa-kCfefSXSzGQBiPPrZsMSM0WdDG7nAz/s320/downtime_cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>Alt. Country is always an interesting line to tread. With a wide-open meaning, it's often hard to define the difference between Alt. Country and "real" Country and pop Country and whatever other country there is. Ten Cent Howl walks the line and toes is it quite capably with their new EP <i>Down Time</i>. These five songs represent some ways in which Country can be bent in order to make it an alternative to the norm.</p>
<p>One of the major stands out is the vocals. In turns dripping with emotion and lacking the sobriety to care, the words are only one part of conveying the message of each song. Pair that with a drummer who knows how to pace things in such a way as to couch each song and pare it down to an essential drive (or drone if it's necessary for the tune). This album also finds the band experimenting with new sounds, like heavier harmonicas and a great mandolin sound. As always, the guitars and bass are well balanced and support each other like the arms of lovers after a night that may have lasted too long.</p>
<p>The EP kicks off with a great song of past love born of drinking. Does it get more country than that? The title track is then a great shuffling didddy that seems like it might be positive, but in reality is a lament for the life of a musician. Here the backing vocals and new instrumentation really shine. The big take away, though, is the final track "Turning Away", a song of affirmation, decline, and the type of song that leaves you wanting a bit more. It takes all the pieces that have been put down in the previous tracks and puts them together in a perfect picture.</p>
<p>So...is this alt-country or Alt. Country or what? That is a question left to the listener. At the very least, Ten Cent Howl has proven music can be fun and fun to listen to, even while lamenting drunken lost loves and lives.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://www.reverbnation.com/tencenthowl' target = _new>ReverbNation</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.facebook.com/TenCentHowl' target = _new>Facebook</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://wilcoworld.net' target = _new>Wilco</a>, <a href = 'http://www.facebook.com/VoxHumana13' target = _new>Vox Humana</a>, <a href = 'http://www.tomwaits.com/' target = _new>Tom Waits</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-91849073189040044472012-05-21T13:13:00.001-04:002012-05-21T13:14:26.957-04:00Music Review - Grape Soda!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32enTjRajn_OaEBV3HEM_R4UyX1aso9_Om8W0hARiE8aqiklEOpKenPDF_4ktRS2bSm7Mv_eu1Qh_UiH1kCzPk8HzK3HUeiTrAtysRNlbyn0-rpJ9XzbBEJ9DSnypCKnl4vkvm_W4Lkcb/s1600/2495440722-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32enTjRajn_OaEBV3HEM_R4UyX1aso9_Om8W0hARiE8aqiklEOpKenPDF_4ktRS2bSm7Mv_eu1Qh_UiH1kCzPk8HzK3HUeiTrAtysRNlbyn0-rpJ9XzbBEJ9DSnypCKnl4vkvm_W4Lkcb/s320/2495440722-1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>It seems down under they like to start 'em off as early as possible. This true whether the kid is a crocodile hunter or a musician. Grape Soda! supports this theory with their eponymous EP. This foursome of 16 year olds already have the chops to compete with the seasoned veterans of the indie pop world, it would seem.</p>
<p>With song architecture outside of the norm and leanings toward jazzier intentions, Grape Soda! is a breath of fresh air. Jangly guitars over a smooth, layered vocal, and rambling bass lines, all this held together with inspiring rhythms from a drummer looking to explore the sound space without abandoning the beat, these songs are accessible but still played with expertise. It seems they are also unafraid to bring out synthesizers to further blend the sounds and blur the genre lines.</p>
<p>Stand outs on this album tend to be the hopeful sounding "Omnibus to the moon" and "Nauseous", both of which ring true with both worldly optimism and youthful innocence. Hopefully this EP is just a taste of what might be a great Australian export to challenge the garage rock from Down Under in the last decade.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://grapesodaaus.bandcamp.com/album/grape-soda-ep' target = _new>BandCamp</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.thestoneroses.org' target = _new>The Stone Roses</a>, <a href = 'http://tokyopoliceclub.com' target = _new>Tokyo Police Club</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-30251632308614978192012-03-05T08:46:00.001-05:002012-03-05T08:46:44.811-05:00MUSIC REVIEW - Returners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8WeD51yJtRmaAO7Md5iWqrDn6z3hcWw4UIwwRt46qcw5yR3zmG2Pbv-uNha2ydf6ZAtJT1boMbTkrPIokYfWpCM9kyMPmor5ftwdoN01SaZh3wtRIUUdtU5U0FZEg9aiBDp2ECTBCAEN/s1600/cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8WeD51yJtRmaAO7Md5iWqrDn6z3hcWw4UIwwRt46qcw5yR3zmG2Pbv-uNha2ydf6ZAtJT1boMbTkrPIokYfWpCM9kyMPmor5ftwdoN01SaZh3wtRIUUdtU5U0FZEg9aiBDp2ECTBCAEN/s320/cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>The 2012 self-titled demo by Returners shows us once again that Western New York has a thriving and eclectic music scene. The guitar driven jangle-alterna-pop is a reminder that things can be just as good (or even better) left of the dial.</p>
<p>With guitars directly in front, this album seems to want to grab you, reaching out with the strings and pulling your ears in to direct you to the guitar sound. The songs are rhythmically diverse, not simply the same driving beat over and over, but tempos and rhythms mixed with ostentatious fills and rolls to fill out the guitar pounding. Meanwhile, the bass serves as the anchor of each song. As the guitars and drums move of in spirals of cacophony, the bass keeps it all together. This melange serves for some well built songs.</p>
<p>One short coming, though, is the vocals. Perhaps it is because of the mix, but they are difficult to hear and, when one can discern the lyrics, it's usually something bland or somewhat cliché. Perhaps, as it seems the focus is not on the lyrics, the idea is to ignore them and keep the focus on the guitar sounds. The only other complaint is that the drums could be a little louder in the mix.</p>
<p>Stand out songs here are "Turn", which features a great mix of starts and stops on all instruments and a vocal peel of "do ya wanna?" that reminds one of Fred Schneider for some reason. Additionally impressive is "Mistaken Identity" which starts with a best that made me wonder, just for 3 seconds, if this wasn't a cover of "Billie Jean". Then the guitars come in and make you think, "Why did I ever think that? This is something all togther different, and better".</p>
<p>A good album, though it has more of an autumn feel than a winter or spring. Looking forward to hearing more (hopefully with slightly better mix production).</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://returners.bandcamp.com/' target = _new>BandCamp (it's free!!)</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://blocparty.com/' target = _new>Bloc Party</a>, <a href = 'http://www.thestaylows.com/' target = _new>The Stay-Lows</a>, <a href = 'http://www.superchunk.com/' target = _new>Superchunk</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-31777296797914639632012-02-29T08:33:00.000-05:002012-02-29T08:49:41.562-05:00Music Review - Bruce Springsteen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6rcsG09zU_Q5ttRyQh9-6h1BrbrvsQX8wUvwpqAy3yoohs2sn4fqXA7AzxoHayatgG2x6SFwLwofDlP70yNNqEApGTARFvprtuTI68bXc_armZP3PmdHw7sDT8jMeMHeBgk2pt-iXD7w/s1600/springsteen-wrecking-ball.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6rcsG09zU_Q5ttRyQh9-6h1BrbrvsQX8wUvwpqAy3yoohs2sn4fqXA7AzxoHayatgG2x6SFwLwofDlP70yNNqEApGTARFvprtuTI68bXc_armZP3PmdHw7sDT8jMeMHeBgk2pt-iXD7w/s320/springsteen-wrecking-ball.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>Some songwriters are striving for vague outlines of ideas and concepts. Bruce Springsteen is (and always has been) a story teller. Some of these stories are upbeat, some tell of the horrors of the life of the forgotten or downtrodden. <i>Wrecking Ball</i> seems to be an album of stories where folks are looking for redemption in the face adversity.</p>
<p>Over the years, Bruce Springsteen has moved more and more away from the bar rock of his early career and more towards other more Americana elements. This album seems to be a blend country-esque rock mixed with a gospel feel. Repeated choruses with a big choir feel often blur that country/gospel line, none more so than the finishing lines in "Shackled and Drawn", where a preacher asks us to "stand up and be counted".</p>
<p>If you were looking for another <i>Nebraska</i> or <i>Greetings From Asbury Park, NJ</i>, you might be disappointed. If, instead, you were looking for a more preachy, mature <i>Darkness on the Edge of Town</i>, you should be more than satisfied. "Jack of All Trades" in particular harkens back to the <i>Darkness</i> track "Factory". The biggest standout, however, is easily the celtic (yeah I said celtic) ditty "Death to My Hometown", complete with penny whistles and jauntily sung truths about difficult lives lived.</p>
<p>The most notable aspect of this album, bar none, is the lack of saxophone (except on "Land of Hope and Dreams", a track recorded for <i>The Rising</i>). Some of the songs seem to be morose, sung by a man who has lost his best friend and longest collaborator. The significance of the loss of Clarence "Big Man" Clemens is hard to miss.</p>
<p>Where to find <i>Wrecking Ball</i> (pre-order, the album is out March 6th):</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://www.apple.com/itunes' target = _new>iTunes</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.amazon.com/Wrecking-Ball-Special-Bruce-Springsteen/dp/B006ZCWU5K/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1330522099&sr=1-1' target = _new>Amazon</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.johnnycash.com' target = _new>Johnny Cash</a>, <a href = 'http://sinnersrepent.bandcamp.com/' target = _new>Sinners Repent!</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-51743337700953781742012-02-14T08:51:00.000-05:002012-02-14T08:51:58.452-05:00Music Review - Geron Hoy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcE3HqXkc819sHE7SfPWh-S1LqvjezCfjrIRjYhhp5OT8ToPGy17KkAe4MoiJ0KaFOHQmztkAWytv6ELUw9cnyDOxM3Ke5Y5-1N13KdjAnxyEDTTD_q17fSqk-U9oGNMePyZPuSL6Q36uc/s1600/show_tralbum_art.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcE3HqXkc819sHE7SfPWh-S1LqvjezCfjrIRjYhhp5OT8ToPGy17KkAe4MoiJ0KaFOHQmztkAWytv6ELUw9cnyDOxM3Ke5Y5-1N13KdjAnxyEDTTD_q17fSqk-U9oGNMePyZPuSL6Q36uc/s320/show_tralbum_art.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>Geron Hoy is a man who spent 13 years searching for the right chords and words to put together and call an album. That album, <i>Soldier</i> is now here, and it is a pleasant bit of folky indie-country-pop.</p>
<p>As far as production goes, this album is well constructed. The vocals are present and in the front, making the story telling nature of Hoy's voice in the songs. Guitars are nicely overlaid without running over each other like impatient school boys trying to get to the one girl who <i>might</i> give them the time of day. Instead, the guitars are mates, coalescing instead of converging. The drums are somewhat simple and mechanical, but that can be forgiven, as it would sound empty without any percussion at all. The bass lines remain simple as well, but this is nice as it does not steal away from the sound of the guitars and vocals, were the focus should be for this sort of music.</p>
<p>Hoy has experienced loss. This is clearly emoted in every song, but no more than on "Time Don't You Take It Away", a song so radio ready, it will be a prom theme or movie soundtrack single in no time. Other big take aways are the title-track and "Around You, I'm Me", both pleasant and a little less deliberate than some of the other tracks.</p>
<p>To me, the only drawback was the first track, "Lady Crow". Perhaps it was intended misdirection, or perhaps it was just bad placement, but this track was weaker than the others and probably wasn't well-placed in the number one slot.</p>
<p>Other than that, a wonderful album of loss and lament, the idea of staying positive in light of the worst.</p>
<p>Where to find it:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://geronhoy.bandcamp.com/album/soldier' target = _new>BandCamp</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.geronhoy.com' target = _new>geronhoy.com</a></li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.countingcrows.com' target = _new>Counting Crows</a>, <a href = 'http://www.thewallflowers.com' target = _new>The Wallflowers</a>, <a href = 'http://www.myspace.com/jakobdylan' target = _new>Jakob Dylan</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-3536362241824387312012-02-07T12:33:00.000-05:002012-02-07T12:33:01.376-05:00Music Review - Rejouissance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZ439IuKOXaSruTSOH_2EKJndpZ2Khjvk17uC4DFM4b_CEubId5LmyHsznwcutUgsq2mDB_br-N2TPdM1AYPY47jsR-HbKTRfJG_5J1WoIyDc2BqPtZbDvgOaOkrRFY4yoT5E4UA8k2gv/s1600/photos.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="227" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZ439IuKOXaSruTSOH_2EKJndpZ2Khjvk17uC4DFM4b_CEubId5LmyHsznwcutUgsq2mDB_br-N2TPdM1AYPY47jsR-HbKTRfJG_5J1WoIyDc2BqPtZbDvgOaOkrRFY4yoT5E4UA8k2gv/s320/photos.jpeg" /></a></div>
<p>Hardcore is not dead...</p>
<p>Furthermore, Post-Hardcore is not dead. In fact, both are alive an well in a shiny little place called Syracuse, NY, in the form of five lads who call themselves Rejouissance. I was recently lucky enough to play a show with these guys at a fine little gallery called Badlands and I can say firmly, while their EP, <i>D-Hard Sessions</i> is a great listen, the live show is much more fantastic. For now, though, we'll look at the EP.</p>
<p>Rejouissance features 3 guitar players, one bassist, and a drummer. The 3 guitars gives the songs on this EP an interesting sound. They are at times at war with each other, still holding to the main line but moving in different directions, other times they are so tight and in sync it's as if they have discovered the ultimate chorus pedal. Always, one of the guitars is holding down the main line and keeping things flowing seamlessly with the driving bass lines. The drums (while a little quiet on the recording) are driving and really nail down the ground work for the intensity of each tune.</p>
<p>The standout track of the three is "State of Arrest", and it stands out for one big reason: a well-executed, half-time, classic hardcore breakdown. It makes the song nostalgic and modern all at once. The other two tracks, "Stutterer" and "Hollow Tower" also shine in their own ways, but "State of Arrest" was the grabber here.</p>
<p>The only negative here is that there are only 3 songs. Let's hope there is a full length in the near future.</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://www.myspace.com/rejouissance' target = _new>MySpace</a></li>
<li><a href = 'http://www.last.fm/music/Rejouissance' target = _new>lastFM</a></li>
<li>Syracuse, NY</li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.snapcase.com' target = _new>Snapcase</a>, <a href = 'http://www.myspace.com/braidband' target = _new>Braid</a>, <a href = 'http://www.theonlybandever.com' target = _new>Alexisonfire</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2075872733649824625.post-39938122998831669842012-01-19T08:50:00.000-05:002012-01-19T08:50:30.205-05:00Music Review - Noise & Rhythm - 1848<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWe5WXffhLo3JGhlnmyoHJ-jvKI5-8MYjUNovcU-qJIRGX9bhByvfc_KAsmRVlLZZ6K5uAQI2cdUp9Y_pjrQ1Vp1LkqB01EclIF1VSiX3lcbNDMqA7dexQYDC0byRSzxSL8Sx6IHKUEONA/s1600/85202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWe5WXffhLo3JGhlnmyoHJ-jvKI5-8MYjUNovcU-qJIRGX9bhByvfc_KAsmRVlLZZ6K5uAQI2cdUp9Y_pjrQ1Vp1LkqB01EclIF1VSiX3lcbNDMqA7dexQYDC0byRSzxSL8Sx6IHKUEONA/s320/85202.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>Noises & Rhythm started as a three-piece band, but has since become the solo project of Ryan Schumann. The sound itself is similar to the low-fi sounds of the mid to late 70's, mixed with some influence from the post-new wave era. <i>1848</i> is a collection of the work Ryan has completed, with the assistance of a revolving set of musicians, over the last six months.</p>
<p>"Tongue in cheek" are the first words that come to mind when considering the lyrics of Noises & Rhythm. "Let's Go to England" stands out as having that feel of watching someone or something else being insulted facetiously, but being in on the joke. It isn't the cruel kind of call out either, it's more a shared deprecation. On other songs, such as "Occupy Oscar", shots are taken at current events and society in general, showing Schumann is more than one-dimensional.</p>
<p>Instrumentation on this album seems to range a bit. The vocals are always well done, the keyboards and bass hold up their end as well. Guitars (with the exception of "Eat Our Oranges") seem a bit basic and not as strong when compared to other instruments. The drums and percussion hold-up but just as a simple back beat. This isn't much of an issue as the music is pop and has a rhythm of dancing, making the need for percussion less a necessity to emphasize the movement of the music and more relegated to being a supporting actor.</p>
<p>A very fun listen!</p>
<p>Where to find them:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href = 'http://noiseandrhythm.com/fr_music' target = _new>Noise & Rhythm site</a> has the album as choose your own price. Always a way to give a talented group or individual a leg up!</li>
<li>The album is now available on iTunes</li>
<li>On Spotify in February</li>
</ul>
<p>RIYL: <a href = 'http://www.thekinks.info' target = _new>The Kinks</a>, <a href = 'http://www.beck.com' target = _new>Beck</a>, <a href = 'http://nicklowe.com' target = _new>Nick Lowe</a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10914446718771417807noreply@blogger.com2