Review: Josh Joplin Group "Useful Music"

The Josh Joplin Group have released a very interesting CD with "Useful Music" (Artemis Records, 2000). Arguably one of the more thoughtful and clever lyricists these days, Josh created a record that generated a healthy buzz among critics but sadly failed to be a big breakthrough. He did score a minor hit with the terrific single, "Camera One," which some of you may recognize from the TV show "Scrubs."

Josh is the vocal equivalent of a shapeshifter. Most of the time he sounds like a Michael Stipe clone (most notably on "Phil Ochs"), but then you hear some Ed Kowalczyk from Live (check out "I've Changed"), then some Peter Gabriel (on "Who's Afraid of Thomas Wolfe"), then - for the love of God - he even sounds like all 3 of the bloody Beastie Boys on "Superstar"!

There are some songs that just don't work, like when he takes to pseudo-rapping, but fortunately these are few and far between. He's also got several notable producers with very divergent styles (Shawn Mullins, Jerry Harrison, Peter Collins) that probably add to the schizophrenic nature of the CD as a whole. When the tracks do work, they REALLY work. I could listen to "Camera One" and "Human" all day. Definitely worth the penny you can get this CD for at Amazon.com.

"I've Changed" is on the CD in two different versions, but both are worth slapping on the iPOD for different reasons. I like the driving feel and slick production Peter Collins does on track 13, but the sparse and stunning acoustic-based version on track 6 (done by Shawn Mullins) is awesome too.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13

Josh Joplin Group: Official site.

Review: Kelly Clarkson "My December"

We can sum this up real quick: Clive was right, Kelly was wrong. Oh, so wrong.

In case you are not familiar with this, record producer extraordinaire Clive Davis and his American Idol star Kelly Clarkson got into a rather heated and public debate regarding the songs for her third release, "My December," which saw the light of day in June 2007. Kelly Clarkson is undeniably one of the greater vocal talents these days, and she probably got a bit of a big head with the utterly successful "Breakaway" CD. She has every right to feel proud of that record, but should not lose sight of the fight that song choice is a big key to success (you'd think she would have learned that as many times as they say it on American Idol!). But lousy and forgettable songs are not the only flaw this CD suffers. Kelly's vocal stylings just seem to wander aimlessly, and despite the intensely personal lyrics, they don't pull me into her world.

I heard how much negative press the CD received, but just could not bring myself to believe it could be THAT bad...but sadly, it is. There are only a few tracks I would say are marginally acceptable. Case in point...there is something about the last track (Irvine, not the bonus track) that engages me. In this hushed and sparse coda to the record, Kelly sounds wonderful, her soul and vulnerability can be felt, and it left me with a feeling that she can redeem herself.

I love the fact that Clarkson veered more towards a rock edge with "My December," but I hate that she sacrificed pop sensibilities. She should shoot for having the best of these worlds on her next release...or she'll end up shooting herself in the foot.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 5, 13

Kelly Clarkson on MySpace. Official Site.

Check out the video for "Never Again"

Bill's Internet Radio: Styx and Stones

A new installment of Bill's Internet Radio...this time featuring The Rolling Stones and Styx...enjoy! Courtesy of Anywhere.FM.

Today's playlist: Styx and Stones!

Start Me Up – Rolling Stones
Not Dead Yet – Styx
Mixed Emotions – Rolling Stones
Too Much Time on My Hands – Styx
As Tears Go By – Rolling Stones
Renegade – Styx
Angie – Rolling Stones
Man in the Wilderness – Styx
Out of Tears – Rolling Stones
Don’t Let It End – Styx

Got requests or ideas for a playlist? C'mon, let's hear 'em...

Review: Colbie Caillat "Coco"

Continuing with my experiment to see if the latest stream of female singer/songwriter artists projecting from the Norah Jones family tree are worth their spot on the branch, I checked out Colbie Caillat's "Coco." Based on her well known Top 10 hit called "Bubbly," I wasn't overly excited. But the majority of this CD is amazing...beautiful, catchy, instantly memorable tunes. So far, she is the winner...Colbie has come close to filling an entire CD in which every track is worth transferring to the ol' iPOD! Interestingly, I don't dig the singles as much as the other tracks.

iPOD-worthy: 1-6, 9, 10

Colbie Caillat's MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Realize"

Review: Sara Bareilles "Little Voice"

There seems to be a plethora of female singer/songwriters that have the flair for jazzy pop songs these days. Popping up left and right, jumping on the bandwagon led by Norah Jones, these gals are taking over the airwaves with their one-hit wonders. But can any of them fill up an entire CD with songs as good and catchy as the radio single? With "Little Voice," Sara Bareilles demonstrates that she can at least do half a CD's worth.

The hit single and lead-off track, "Love Song," now in the BillBoard Top 10 (for whatever that is worth), is terrific...bouncy, bright, piano pop that is sung like she means it. But for me, nothing else on this disc comes close to the gem that "Love Song" is. There are some quality moments, however, not so much in songwriting, but in the way Sara can deliver. She has a great voice and can make even some of the less than memorable tunes iPOD-worthy because of some tasty vocal gymnastics. If she got a really good songwriter, her cross-over appeal could be huge.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 7, 10, 11

Sara Bareilles MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Love Song"

Free MP3: Butch Walker "Leavin' the Game on Luckie St"

Review: Down to Earth Approach "Another Intervention"

There is a lot for a fan of melodic rock to enjoy when it comes to the young punk/emo band Down to Earth Approach. Their debut CD on Vagrant, from 2004, is full of short and sweet pop rock tunes with catchy melodies and great harmonies. At times, some of the songs almost sound like they are running together during the 35 minutes of music on "Another Invervention" since they are so similarly structured and paced. It is peppy and bright for a "punk" record, so I think punk purists would hate it, and hence melodic rockers will eat it up. You can grab this release used for a just a dime at Amazon.com.

If you are a fan of Simple Plan, The Click Five, and Dashboard Confessional, you should dig Down to Earth Approach. I am eager to check out their other (2007) release entitled, "Come Back To You."

iPOD-worthy: all but track 4

Official site.

Check out the video for "Exhibit of the Year"

Review: Sheryl Crow "Detours"

I was so looking forward to this release. After the ballad rich and subdued "Wildflower" release, Sheryl Crow promised a more rocking upbeat follow up. In a way, that is not a lie, as "Detours" is much better paced than the sleepy (although beautiful) "Wildflower." But this new release is no masterpiece like "C'mon C'mon" or her self-titled effort from 1996. On the contrary, I think it is one of her worst and least appealing CDs since the awful "Globe Sessions" CD.

The first six songs or so are nothing but blatant political statements, which I have no problem with, but it is hard to get into a song about gas. Like her colleague Don Henley, they are preaching to the choir with tunes like this and there is little offered with regard to a solution. Besides, there are no hooks and she provides little incentive for the listener to want to replay this half of the record.

This record was talked up as a return to roots because it reunited Crow with her producer (Bill Bottrell) from her breakthrough 1993 debut, "Tuesday Night Music Club." While you can clearly hear his influence permeating the tracks, I'm afraid they have failed to recapture the magical chemistry that made those songs work, mostly because this batch of songs is not as strong.

The second half is much better, with songs Crow really sinks her teeth into. They are more personal, and maybe that is why they come out sounding better. And in some of these tracks we hear more of the girl who just wants to have fun, like the "Ob-La-De" influenced track, "Out of Our Heads" or the safe acoustic ditty, "Detours." "Diamond Ring" is a haunting and poignant statement on that final step in the relationship, no doubt influenced by her experience with Lance Armstrong.

iPOD-worthy: 6, 7, 10, 11, 13

Sheryl Crow - official site.

Check out the video for the single, "Love Is Free," which I think is one of the worst, most annoying songs she has ever written.

Review: Angels & Airwaves "We Don't Need To Whisper"

I was never a big fan of Blink-182, save the excellent hook-laden hit, "All the Small Things." In 2006, Blink's guitarist/vocalist Tom DeLonge released his new project entitled "Angles and Airwaves." The record received some pretty good press, debuted at # 4 on Billboard (which means less and less to me every week), and went gold. To top that all off, Roger Joseph Manning, Jr (Jellyfish) played the keyboards on this release.

I wish I could say that I like it more. It sounds like a logical step forward that Blink-182 would take...I don't think you can separate his distinctive voice from anything else but what he did with Blink-182. I admire the production, and some of the songs have a cool atmosphere associated with them...I can see why some argue this is more of a "headphones in the dark" record. Bottom line is the songs just don't do anything for me. Too forgettable, even with repeated spins. I applaud an effort to grow and expand as an artist, but the guy just doesn't have the vocal chops for more serious songs...he is better suited for the novelty tunes that Blink-182 made famous.

iPOD-worthy: 6

Angels and Airwaves on MySpace. Offical site.

Video for the single "The Adventure":

Review: Graham Colton "Here Right Now"

Football may have suffered a blow when this would-be quarterback decided to pick on his guitar rather than throw pigskin, but Graham Colton's choice is a big gain for the world of melodic rock. "Here Right Now" is his first solo release, which hit the shelves back in October of 2007.

Graham has a perfect voice for the songs he crafts and always gives a good mix of straight up rockers and sincere ballads. Virtually every song I've ever heard him sing has an instantly memorable chorus...and often even the verses have a strong hook! His solo effort continues his style of acoustic-based rock, but many of the slower tunes on this release are backed with very nice orchestration. "Best Days" (video) is the single making the rounds right now, and is a pretty good representative track of the other gems on this record.

If you dig Tal Bachman, Pat Monahan (Train), Ingram Hill, Goo Goo Dolls, or similar artists, you won't be unhappy with Graham Colton. Also worth checking out is his 2004 release "Drive" as Graham Colton Band.

Graham Colton's MySpace page. Official site.

iPOD-worthy: tracks 1-9

Rare CD: Train "Train" - first pressing indie release

"RARE HARD TO FIND Train S/T ORIGINAL INDIE PRESSING CD in near Mint condition. Released by the Band Themselves and sold at their Early Shows before being signed. As you can see the Front cover is a bit Different. The back cover is very different and has a nice early photo of the band and includes contact information. This Rare pressing Includes the track "Sorry For", which did not make it to the major label release."

1-27-08: One sells for $49.50 on ebay (1 bid).

Rare CD: Skinny Puppy - ERROR

"Skinny Puppy / Sinead O'Connor - CD Single with RARE ERROR: The CD, insert and inlay all say that this is a Skinny Puppy CD single. But, when it's played instead of hearing Skinny Puppy's "Worlock", "Tin Omen" or "Brak Talk", you hear Sinead O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U"

People are willing to pay a lot for mistakes! This CD single containing the wrong artist sold for $395.00 on ebay (13 bids).

Rare CD: Bowling for Soup

This is the original Que-So Records indie produced in Wichita Falls TX 1995, even before "Tell Me When To Whoaa!" Jaret, Chris, Erik, and *Lance* all original members.

2-1-08: One sold for $290.00 on ebay (Buy It Now feature).

Rare CD: Nirvana "Nevermind the Bullocks"

Marketed as "The Rarest Nirvana Cd EVER Made" (SADMOP-003/004), this live recording of Nirvana will likely earn you a handsome profit. Show was recorded on 11-09-93 at Stabler Arena, Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA).

2-8-08: One sold for $799.00 (!) on ebay (using Buy It Now).

Rare CD and review: Tyketto "Shine"

People who are not strangers to this site know I am a big Danny Vaughn fan. His performance on Tyketto's debut album, "Don't Come Easy" (Geffen, 1990) helped make that an AOR masterpiece. After the less stellar follow up, "Strength in Numbers," (1994), Danny had to take care of his ailing wife. The rest of the boys recruited Steve Augeri (from the AOR outfit Tall Stories) to fill Danny's shoes and "Shine" (1995) was the result. (Steve would later fill the void of Steve Perry in Journey for several years).

As Steve no doubt has figured out by now, it ain't easy filling shoes. Just ask Gary Cherone. Nevertheless, Steve has a great voice built for AOR and I hope to hear him in a band that had no other lead singer prior to him.

Disconnecting it from Danny Vaughn, "Shine" is a solid slice of AOR that stands up pretty well on its own. I am glad to own a copy, as it is evidently rather rare and not likely to get a reissue anytime soon. It is selling at Amazon.com right now for nearly $40. Check now.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 7, 10

Rare CD: Johnny Hates Jazz "Tall Stories"

"Shattered Dreams" was one of my favorite guilty pop pleasures from the late 80s. It inspired me to check out the entire CD from Johnny Hates Jazz (1987's "Turn Back the Clock"), which had a handful of other decent tracks. I didn't know they had a follow up CD and I would be curious to hear it. Too bad it is rare and out of print...I am not that curious to hear it! "Tall Stories" was released on Virgin in 1991, and actually has a different vocalist. Clark Datchler left in 1988 and was replaced by an ex-bass player from the Cure (Phil Thornalley).

2-6-08: One sells for $33.44 on ebay (7 bids)

CD review: Will Hoge "Draw the Curtains"

The latest from rousing roots rocker Will Hoge is unexpectedly subdued. I did not anticipate so many ballads. I was all ready to rock out to track # 1 and was taken aback by the slow piano and sad hamonica. You'd expect a track or 2 on any Will Hoge disc to have this sound and tempo, but the polarity is reversed on this release. Only 1 or 2 rockers this time around.

But more important - are the songs any good? I wish I could say they were better. They are just too boring and devoid of melody! Lyrically I still give the guy credit, and he still puts his blood sweat and tears into every track. Just listen to the autobiographical closing track and you'll know what Will Hoge is all about.

I loved his earlier work, "Carousel" (2001) and "Blackbird on a Lonely Wire," (2003) but his last two records have disappointed.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 7

Will Hoge at MySpace. Official site.

Cool trivia: Dan Baird was his first guitarist...formerly of Georgia Satellites, remember?! Dan is no longer with the band.

CD review: Paul McCartney "Memory Almost Full"

Oh, Paul. I was so looking forward to this, but now I see why the critics were warning us about this new CD of yours. I was optimistic after the near masterpiece that was 2005's "Chaos and Creation in the Backyard."

Where are the trademark McCartney hooks? Where are the cute melodies? Creative harmonies? Quality lyrics? It seems by and large on this effort Paul just repeats the same word over and over and over and over and over in order to get something to stick in our head. All it does is make my finger stick to fast forward.

Surprisingly few tracks stand out, including the catchy lead single, "Ever Present Past." Maybe I am expecting too much, but deeply disappointed. I also heard the three bonus tracks that come with the deluxe edition pictured above with DVD and all. 2 of the 3 bonus audio tracks suck ... there should be a law banning sucky bonus tracks.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 4, 12, 15

Paul McCartney - offical site.

Enjoy the single "Ever Present Past":

Rare CD: Nena "It's All in the Game"

"This is the extremely rare original 1985 english language CD by NENA titled "It's All In The Game".

This is the one without their breakthrough 80s staple, "99 Luft Balloons"

And it still sold for $300.05 on ebay (35 ! bids)

Collectors take note: this will be reissued later this month on Phantom Sound & Vision - see here.

Rare CD: Joe Strummer "Earthquake Weather"

Joe Strummer from The Clash released "Earthquake Weather" (epic : EK 45372) in 1989 to mixed reviews. People either seemed to love it or hate it. While Joe tried to capture a "live" sound, the production is argued to have achieved that to a fault.

This one sold for $46.00 on ebay (13 bids).

Currently listing for $85 used on Amazon.com. Check now.

Rare CD: Nickel Creek "Here To There"

"10 TRACK COMPACT DISC INDEPENDENTLY RELEASED BY THE BAND IN 1997. THIS IS THEIR SECOND ALBUM

WHEREAS THEIR FIRST ALBUM "LITTLE COWPOKE" WAS RELEASED ON CHOO CHOO RECORDS (AND THAT LABEL STILL HOLDS THE RIGHTS), THIS ALBUM WAS ONLY INDEPENDENTLY RELEASED IN A VERY LIMITED RUN BY THE BAND. ONLY ABOUT 1000 COPIES OF THIS ALBUM WERE RELEASED

IN SEVERAL INTERVIEWS LATER IN THEIR CAREER, THE BAND HAS SAID, DESPITE THE SIGNIFICANT FAN AND COLLECTOR INTEREST IN THE ALBUM, "HERE TO THERE" WILL NOT BE RE-RELEASED"

This one sold for $210.01 on ebay (10 bids).

UPDATE 2-29-08: Another sells for $210.01 on ebay (13 bids).

Rare CD: Train "One and A Half"

"Original US Pressing for Train "One And A Half," CD, Sony/Aware Records, 1999. Tough to find CD that was released in a VERY LIMITED EDITION between the first two Train records!!! All songs recorded LIVE in studio on Oct. 21, 1999"

Tracks:
1. Counting On You
2. Hopeless

3. Ramble On (acoustic)

4. Sweet Rain

5. The Highway

6. Meet Virginia (acoustic)

This one sold for $41.00 on ebay (7 bids).

Rare CD: Jonas Brothers "It's About Time"

These guys are all the rave among the little girls right now and their scarce 2006 release is in high demand. Lots of these going for over $100 currently on ebay, and $125 on Amazon.com - check now. I'll be surprised if this is not re-issued soon.

2-3-08: One sells for $110 on ebay (44 (!) bids)

Rare CD: Soundtrack "Serpent and the Rainbow"

Listed as "one of the rarest soundtracks of all time" - I do not doubt it since it is a Varese and went for $338.33 on ebay with 28 bids. This is the soundtrack for the 1988 Wes Craven film.

Rare CD: Soundtrack "Lethal Weapon"

With only 3000 original copies in existence, the soundtrack to the first Lethal Weapon movie fetches a handsome price (Limited edition, Bacchus Media Group Inc). Don't bother with the sequels...those soundtracks are worthless. Currently unavailable on Amazon - check now.

2-3-08: One sells for $64.99 on ebay (14 bids).

Rare CD: Little River Band "No Reins"

The Little River Band has put out some terrific AOR in their time; several of their tunes got a 5-star ranking on my iPOD. Outside of their numerous Greatest Hits compilations, their studio releases are a bit tough to find stateside on CD. Take for instance, this copy of the classic "No Reins," which sold for $29.78 on ebay (7 bids). Going for $63.00 used on Amazon.com. Check now.

Review: t.A.T.u. "The Best"

"The most successful international recording act exported from Russia." Maybe so, but these two don't do much for me. I just don't get it...this CD was included in a big collection I bought from some guy off ebay, mixed in with lots of good new hard rock CDs (like Shinedown, Seether, Taproot, Three Days Grace, and the like). How this one got into his collection puzzles me...it is a lot of electronica and eurodance. Yes, there are some hard rock overtones every now and then, and some of the sweetest harmonies since ABBA, but nothing to stop me from immediately putting this up on for a lala trade.

iPOD worthy: 4, 6

Official site.

News: Glen Phillips new EP available now

Glen Phillips has completed a new EP that can be checked out here. Formerly the frontman of one of my all-time favorite bands, Toad the Wet Sprocket, the prolific Glen has written an enviable catalogue of music that is both artistic and melodic.

Glen's MySpace page.

And if that isn't exciting enough, he's participating in a new all-star band that should have a CD out later this year:

"Tentatively known as the Scrolls, the octet is comprised of keyboardist Benmont Tench from Tom Petty's Heartbreakers, drummer Pete Thomas and bassist Davey Faragher from Elvis Costello's Imposters, Nickel Creek's Sara and Sean Watkins, Toad the Wet Sprocket frontman Glen Phillips, fiddler Luke Bula from the Blue Merle Band and multi-instrumentalist Greg Leisz."

Story here.

Rare CD?: Kings of Leon "Aha Shake Heartbreak" - ERROR

I am posting an email I got regarding an unusual version of this Kings of Leon CD...we'd love to hear from anyone with some info on this...Bill

"Hi,

I'd appreciate your opinion on a CD I have. Outwardly it appears to be the Kings of Leon CD 'Aha Shake Heartbreak' which seems to have a perfect CD booklet and CD image. However, the music is classic pop and country & western tunes redone in German (I think). I understand that this does happen occasionally during the manufacturing process but my questions are:

1. Just how rare are CDs like this?
2. Does it have any value over and above the second hand value of a perfect album?
3. Where on the net would I go to find people that might see it as valuable?

I presume that the music on the CD, albeit the wrong music, also affects the value and in my case it may lower the value considerably!!"

Rare CD: Soundtrack "Ghostbusters"

"Ghostbusters - Varese Sarabande rare & OOP CDThis auction is for the out-of-print CD release of Elmer Bernstein's score to the film "Ghostbusters." Released as a limited collector’s edition of 3000 copies through the Varese Sarabande Soundtrack Club ( Catalog #: VCL 0306 1046 )."

He slimed me...one sells for $79.05 on ebay (15 bids)

4-21-08: One sells for $71.00 on ebay (14 bids)

Rare CD: Soundtrack "Commando"

"Commando - Varese Sarabande rare & OOP CDThis auction is for the out-of-print CD release of James Horner's score to the film "Commando." Released as a limited collector’s edition of 3000 copies through the Varese Sarabande Soundtrack Club ( Catalog #: VCL 1103 1026 )."

Not going for as much as "Predator", but not too shabby...

One sells for $65.00 on ebay (14 bids)

4-24-08: One sells for $103.52 on ebay (25 bids)

Rare CD: .38 Special "Special Delivery"

'SPECIAL DELIVERY' (1987 A&M) OUT-OF-PRINT CD OF THEIR 1978 RELEASE BY U.S. SOUTHERN MELODIC ROCK BAND .38 SPECIAL

This one sold for $41.00 on ebay (12 bids)

They're going for over $65 on Amazon.com right now. Check.

Rare CD: Megan Mullally "Sweetheart Break-In"

"Megan Mullally & The Supreme Music Program, THE SWEETHEART BREAK-IN, Supreme Music Program MMKB-1901, 1999. .......... ULTRA-RARE, IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND debut CD--AUTOGRAPHED!--by Will & Grace's Megan Mullally, recorded with her band in 1999 and LONG out of print. This is one of the RAREST of all contemporary pop music vocal CDs and the Holy Grail for fans of this brilliant comedienne and musical comedy star. The sleeve, incidentally, is a 9-panel fold-out mini-poster with attractive, cutting-edge graphics. .......... 16 songs--an ecletic mix of the classic and contemporary: Ten Cents a Dance, Antonio Carlos Jobim's How Insensitive, John Prine's Far from Me, In the Gloaming, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Scarlet Ribbons, 2 songs each by Stephen Sondheim (I Remember; Johanna), Kurt Weill (It Never Was You; Surabaya Johnny), Randy Newman (Marie; Guilty) and Tom Waits (Ruby's Arms; Johnsburg, Illinois), plus two instrumentals (Sigmund Romberg's Sweetheart and Roger Miller's King of the Road)"

This one sold for $400.00 on ebay (10 bids). Check Amazon.

Rare CD: Jillson "Deadly Girl"

"JILLSON - Deadly Game (released 1990 in USA on RMS Discos Records) One of the most after sought indie cd ever and to find on many collectors wantlist. Featuring Britny Fox Vocalist. One of the rarest and high bidded glam/melodic CDs ever."

It says "Deadly Girl" on the cover..."Game" must be a typo from the seller.

1-29-08: One sold for $327.77 on ebay (21 bids).

Rare CD: Evanescence "Bring Me To Life" US DJ CD Single

We don't usually cover singles and promo items on the forums, but this one's price tag just could not let it be ignored. I've no idea why such an item commands such a price...I just report 'em! 2003 Wind-Up Label WUJC 20035-2R

This CD single promo sold for $610 on ebay (1-20-08) (27 bids).

Rare CD: Dennis Wilson "Pacific Ocean Blue"

"Out of print mega-rare Japanese CD of Dennis Wilson "Pacific Ocean Blue" . CD, OBI, and inserts are in flawless condition !!" Classic solo 1977 album by the Beach Boy drummer...

This one sold for $102.51 on ebay (13 bids).

UPDATE:(1-29-08): Another sells for $96.00 on ebay (17 bids)
This CD was released in 1991 by Epic/Sony Music
UPDATE (1-30-08): Another sells for $100.99 on ebay (21 bids) - Austria import
UPDATE (2-2-08): Another sells for $51.05 on ebay (11 bids); and another at $76.00 (18 bids) - these two appear to be domestic version, released in 1990 on Sony 468351 2.

Rare CD: The Stuff "The Stuff"

This indie release (circa 1993) is extremely rare and will fetch hundreds of bucks. What is "The Stuff?" Hair band, baby, hair band.

"This is an original copy of the ultra hyper rare and obscure 1993 hair rock indie release from THE STUFF. Going on a cd hunt and finding this type of killer release is what dreams are made of. With little doubt this has to be one of the very best finds I have ever come across in my 5 plus years of selling on Ebay. The sound, the look and the attitude of this gem is what brings fans of the genre to their knees. Fans of Firehouse, Danger Danger, Tyketto, Dokken, Jailhouse and Blind Date and every other catchy Hair Rock band that have a melodic AOR touch will love this indie."

1-18-08: Used copy of this CD sold for $1,125.01 on ebay (33 bids)!

UPDATE (1-23-08): Seems several more of these have now popped up! Today one sold for best offer of $250.00 on ebay. And another on same day sold for $265.00 (8 bids). Why the big drop in price? Might have something to do with the singer from The Stuff proposing to re-issue the CD (see comments).

Bill's Internet Radio: Kickin' Cover Tunes

Trying something new today...introducing my own Internet Radio show! Actually, this is just a playlist of tunes I pick for you to stream and enjoy courtesy of Anywhere.FM. I am still experimenting with the web site and format, so thought I'd pick an easy theme and we'll go from there. I am shooting for a weekly update, and will try to post reminders and links here on the Forum.

Todays playlist: Kickin' Cover Tunes.
Enjoy!

Rare CD: God's Gift "Larger Than Life"

I've never heard of these guys, so here is the description of God's Gift from the ebay seller:

"Mega rare 80's style Indie AOR / Melodic Rock!!
This rare 14 track CD was released in 1997 on a US indie label. A super catchy, melodic AOR/hard rock rarity!!! Very cool guitars and wonderful keys abound all over this release!!! Heavily influenced by the likes of TYKETTO and early SURVIVOR. These guys are totally stuck in the 80's, which is a good thing!"

1-12-08: One used CD sells for $43.34 on ebay (17 bids).

Rare CD: Re-flex "The Politics of Dancing"

For the handful of folks out there who love obscure 80s new wave dance fluff, here you have "Re-flex." But you'll have to be prepared to pay a handsome price for this dance down memory lane.

1-17-08: A used copy of this CD sells for $162.49 on ebay (2 bids). Too bad the buyer did not check Amazon.com, who has sellers offering it for as low as $60. Check now.

2-9-08: One sells for $102.50 on ebay (15 bids).

2-21-08: One sells for $102.50 on ebay again (23 bids)

Rare CD: Pure Prairie League "If The Shoe Fits"

This one by the Pure Prairie League (of "Amie" fame) is a gem to find, originally released in 1976.

1-11-08. CD sells for $62.60 on ebay (5 bids).

Selling for $97.99 on Amazon.com. Check now.

Rare CD: Taco "After Eight"

Oh yeah...great idea. Let's name our band Taco! Better yet, let's release a goofy single called "Puttin' on the Ritz" that will drive everyone absolutely nuts. Maybe we can get double endorsements from Taco Bell and Nabisco!

No joke...1-11-08: CD sells for $59.09 on ebay (48 ! bids).

On Amazon.com, used Taco CD is going for 124.87. Check now.

UPDATE (3-2-08): Another sells for $61.00 on ebay (18 bids).

UPDATE (5-7-08): Another sells for $81.00 on ebay (17 bids).

Rare CD: Deborah Allen "Let Me Be the First"

Continuing today's inadvertent trend of rare CDs from 80s bands...here are we with country pop star Deborah Allen, whose 1984 CD "Let Me Be the First" is very hard to find. Check it out...

1-11-08: One sells for $75.99 on ebay (69 ! bids).

And that is a bargain. It's going for $200 on Amazon.com. Check now.

Rare CD: Motels "Shock"

The Motels was a new wave 80s band, a virutal one-hit wonder with "Only The Lonely." Most of their CDs are out of print and hard to find; some get you a good price on the auction circuit. One example is "Shock," which reached # 36 on BillBoard's album chart in 1985.

1-11-08: CD sells for $81.00 on ebay (26 bids).

Currently going for $119.95 on Amazon.com. Check now.

UPDATE (1-15-08): one sells for $68.87 on ebay (6 bids).

UPDATE (2-10-08): one sells for $49.99 on ebay (9 bids).

Rare CD: Justin Hayward "Moving Mountains"

Who what? C'mon! Justin Hayward is The Moody Blues! "Moving Mountains" (Towerbell Records) was a solo effort put out in 1985 that is rare and hard to find.

1-11-08: One sells for $103.50 on ebay (15 bids). Sucker...going for $97 on Amazon. Check now.

UPDATE (1-15-08): one sells for $100.00 on ebay (buy it now feature).

UPDATE (1-29-08): one sells for $90.99 on ebay (18 bids)

Rare CD: Eric Martin "I'm Only Fooling Myself"

Most of you no doubt know Mr. Eric Martin as the voice behind Mr. Big, who hit it big just before grunge killed AOR with their # 1 acoustic based ditty, "To Be With You." This 1985 release (Emi-Capitol (5148-2) 1987 / 2000) pre-dates the existence of Mr. Big, and like a lot of other early Eric Martin, is quite rare and goes for decent prices on ebay. Currently selling used on Amazon.com for $65.00 - check now.

1-5-08: This CD sold for $68.00 on ebay (18 bids).

UPDATE (2-4-08): One sells for only $26.00 on ebay (13 bids) - either this is a different version or someone got very lucky!

News: Midnight Oil's leader finding challenges in politics

"Story Highlights:
Peter Garrett, tall, baldheaded Midnight Oil singer, is government minister
Garrett has had some challenges adjusting rhetoric now that he's in power
Midnight Oil best known for hits "Beds Are Burning," "Blue Sky Mine""

Story here.

Rare CD: My Chemical Romance "Like Phantoms Forever"

"One of the single-rarest My Chemical Romance items of all time. This is the much rumored-to-exist "Like Phantoms Forever", an EP that was made to promote the band in the late summer/fall of 2002 when they were playing their first out of New Jersey shows.

...there are only 100 of these in existence (this is hand-numbered in red ink, number 74),"

TRACKS:

1) vampires will never hurt you

2) this is the best day ever

3) jack the ripper (a live Morrissey cover)

12-18-07: Sells for $521.27 on ebay (31 bids)

Rare CD: U2 "Special Collection 1980-1987"

The weather outside is frightful...

U2 "Special Collection 1980-1987" JAPAN Promo CD RARE!!

VERY rare U2-Special Collection 1980-1987 Japanese In Store Promo Sampler CD INDUSTRY EDITION - NOT SOLD IN STORES!

Track Listing: 1)Out of Control 2) I Will Follow 3) Gloria 4) October 5) New Year's Day 6) Two Hearts Beat as One 7) 11 O'Clock Tick Tock 8) Sunday Bloody Sunday 9) Pride (In the Name of Love) 10) The Unforgettable Fire 11) With or Without You 12) I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For 13) Where the Streets Have No Name 14) Red Hill Mining Town

12-23-07 sells for $2651 on ebay (20 bids).

12-24-07 sells for $3000 on ebay (buy it now option exercised).

Review: Loverboy "Just Getting Started"

Never in a million years would I have predicted to be so crazy about a record by Loverboy. I almost laughed at the thought of them trying to stage a comeback in this day and age, but I am beside myself with how great this CD is...seriously, this one ranks as one of the best CDs of 2007. It is a AOR dream come true in every sense. I'm - ahem - lovin' every minute of it.

The boys have retooled themselves, but just like the Scorpions earlier this year, Loverboy have wildly succeeded in doing the impossible...reinventing themselves to sound like a modern rock outfit while retaining the qualities their long time fans love them for. The production on this record is top notch and completely modern sounding. Mike Reno still sounds incredible after all these years, and even sounds younger and more vibrant here than ever before.

But for me, as always, it comes down to the songs. I own no other Loverboy CD - not even one of their many recycled greatest hits collections - but this one is loaded with tracks that would be killer singles at radio in a more sensible music market. In a sense, this CD could be a greatest hits collection. Every track on this largely upbeat record has a great hook and anthem chorus.

There is not a single bad track in the bunch, but standouts for me include the title track, "Fade To Black," the hilarious "One of them Days," and peppy "Lost Without You." I also like the closing track "Stranded," which features Phil Colin from Def Leppard on backing vocals.

I can't recommend this one enough...cast your prejudice aside and enjoy the ride. Congrats to Mike Reno and the boys.

Review: The Summer Obsession "This Is Where You Belong"

I really wasn't expecting much from this CD, but wow! what a pleasant surprise. This lot of perky pop punk tracks is full of enough hooks and crunch to keep any melodic rocker happy. The band hails from Florida and released this debut CD in August 2006. The drummer (Chris Wilson) used to be in Good Charlotte, and you can definitely hear some resemblances between them and Summer Obsession. Other comparisons that come to mind include The Click Five and Simple Plan. I am finding that I dig a lot these "neo" alt rock outfits - their music won't change the world, but it does make you feel good and get your toes tapping.

I've read that a founding guitarist left the band, but they were working on a new record. I hope his departure does not manifest itself as a sophomore jinx. Time will tell, but I will certainly check out their next effort.

The Summer Obsession on MySpace. Official site.

Check out video for "Death Said" (which got to 96 on the Billboard chart):

Rare CD: KBCO Studio C Retrospective

If you see a CD out there with KBCO on it, grab it. It is typically a one of a kind limited edition or tracks you'll not find anywhere else. People will pay handsomely for these rarities...

"This is a very collectible CD from the radio station that issues top notch limited edition live compilation CDs each year"

This "Retrospective" CD sold recently for $162.52 on ebay (4 bids)