Review: Broken Promise Keeper "Ice Cold Pop"

Rob Stuart is the one-man band otherwise known as Broken Promise Keeper - my vote for one of the coolest "band" names of the year. The latest offering, "Ice Cold Pop" is another one of those bewildering discs that is so full of sound and harmonies that you find it difficult to believe that a single guy is behind it all.

BPK was active in the power pop scene in the mid-80s having some enviable brushes with fame, but life got in the way so to speak and the music stayed in his head rather than on a CD. But writing quality melodic rock and pop must be like riding a bike for BPK. What I love best about "Ice Cold Pop": the fun Rob Stuart is having in reviving his music effortless rubs off in an instantly contagious way.

"Ice Cold Pop" is an startling good album - BPK manages to remind us of the golden age of Southern Pop (think mid-80s R.E.M.) while demonstrating to us that he's embraced a diverse assortment of more contemporary pop (Red Button, The Galaxies, The Jellybricks) and can expertly weave a music tapestry with the old and the new. BPK goes beyond being a hardcore fan of power pop - he knows what makes things work and, as a result, he stirs in all the perfect ingredients to make "Ice Cold Pop" a near instant classic. We have a thick base of sticky melodies, generous harmonies, lyrics seasoned with wit and humor, and just the right amount of crunch with the guitar. "Ice Cold Pop" is one hell of an addictive cocktail.

The only item that struck me as a bit strange at the outset was the vocals. BPK has an adequate voice that gets the job done (and then some, in some cases), but the vocal tone just doesn't go down as smooth as the songwriting. I would love to hear what BPK could do with the resources a major label could supply, or if BPK collaborated with another vocalist. The good news is that the songs are so catchy and smart that I've acquired a taste for the vocals and keep spinning this disc nonstop.

It is hard to pick favorites from "Ice Cold Pop" - kind of like picking out which ice cube is your favorite one in the tray. But I will highlight "Directions", "Kristine", and the tragic comedy "I Blame James", which has BPK admitting that his childhood role models were James Kirk, Bond, and West, over a brilliant "secret agent" guitar riff - and then wondering why he doesn't win the fights and get the girl. By the way, the record is full of neat music-matches-lyrics tricks like the secret agent riff - to list one other example, BPK adds a carnival type organ in "Amusement Park Lover". "Look Out Hollywood" is another gem of hyper jangle pop, describing in his satirical fashion the all-too-familiar situation of our encounters with life's phonies. I also enjoyed the rare moment when BPK slowed things down a bit - appropriate at the sunset of the CD, with "Goodbye".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12

Broken Promise Keeper - official site.

Rare CD: Moriah "Moriah"

"super rare 1990 melodic hard rock indie!

Here is an awesome 5 track indie released in 1990 by this Rochester, New York band. These guys have a well balanced hard rock sound in the vein of XYZ blended with melodic keyboard oriented NIGHT RANGER.......very unique but totally 80's sounding. Self produced, the total sound of the production is very impressive for an indie. This is an absolute must have for your collection and comes with my highest recommendation. Disc and inserts are in near mint condition. Please note: there is a prom + contact sticker from the band on the front insert.

Track Titles:
Hit And Run
Bleeding Heart
Sun Always Shines
Billy Raise Your Guns
I Need Your Love"

Sold for $130.49 on ebay (15 bids)

Rare CD: Beyond The Blue "Beyond The Blue"

"Hi! You are bidding on a RARE CD from AOR band Beyond The Blue-"S/T" (Self Titled) from 1990 on the "Polydor" Records label (Germany), original CD, inserts, etc.

Personnel
Le Bolderdijk guitars, bass, keys
Emile Den Tex lead and backing vocals

Tracks
1. Atlantic Summer
2. More Than Ever Before
3. Here On Our Own
4. Beyond the Blue
5. Home
6. My Town
7. Intoxicated
8. Only the River Knows
9. Bleeding Heart
10. Another World
11. Romancing The Fire"

Sold for $133.27 on ebay (17 bids)

Rare CD: Safire "Safire"

"Mega rare 1995 Australian melodic hard rock!

Here's your chance to get an original CD called SAFIRE - S/T. This mega rare 6 track CD was released in 1995 by the band. Killer sounding Australian AOR/melodic hard rock in the vein of Rising Storm, Bon Jovi, Surrender, Tainted Angel put into a blender. Overall, it's extremely catchy, with great songs and nice, big harmony vocals; keyboard laden melodic hard rock. Make your bid count on this very hard to find rarity!!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it. The CD and inserts are in near mint condition."

Sold for $150.49 on ebay (15 bids)

Review: Jeff Litman "Postscript"

Jeff Litman's musical tastes range from Johann Sebastian Bach to Skid Row's Sebastain Bach. After graduating from the IU jazz program, Litman obtained a masters in classical guitar performance and was on his way to completing a doctorate in classical music before returning to the melody-driven rock that he loved in his youth.

While his musical influences run the gamut, Litman is very focused on hook-laden power pop for his debut release "Postscript", which is a tour across the minefield of a failed relationship. Litman states that others have compared his music to Matthew Sweet, Elvis Costello, and Jason Falkner. There is a clear vocal resemblence to these artists, but to my ears he sounds a lot like Michael Penn or David Gray of the Idle Wilds. Muscially, Litman is a master of numerous shades of power pop - he does plenty of Byrds-like jangle pop, some delicate singer/songwriter pieces, and throws in a hint of garage pop not unlike The Replacements. "Let You Go" and "Detroit Lawyer", for example, both have a definite Paul Westerberg vibe.

Litman recruited a great team to record "Postscript" - the sonic quality of the CD speaks for itself (produced by Andy Thompson and Litman). His experience in classical music adds a wonderful dimension to his songs, as many are seasoned with flute, cello, violin, or fugelhorn. In addition, powerpop princess Kelly Jones, whose CD we loved in 2008, joins in the fun, sharing lines with Litman on the folky "Maine".

The entire disc is strong from start to finish, but highlights for me included the upbeat numbers, "Anna", "Everything You're Not", and "Detroit Lawyer". "Postscript" is a clear contender for one of the best melodic rock discs of the year.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 10

Jeff Litman on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Caitlin Canty "Green"

What is the sound of maple sugar on snow? That is how Vermont-based singer/songwriter Caitlin Canty describes the music on her CD "Green". The nine tracks are all acoustic guitar and voice, and the sparse and delicate arrangements make you feel as if you are right there in an intimate coffeehouse setting with the artist.

The CD is remarkably well produced for an indie effort - crisp and crystal clear. The acoustic guitars and Canty's angelic voice and breezy harmonies share a wonderfully warm tone overall. Canty's vocals will remind folks of some of her influences, such as Lucinda Williams, Mazzy Star, and Allison Krauss. To me, I hear a lot of Leona Naess as well. "Green" is a very cohesive effort that makes for an excellent mood piece, best suited for those quiet and reflective times (well, at least 25 minutes worth!). There is no high speed electrified rocker that kicks in from out of nowhere to disrupt the serenity of the other tracks. The shifts from sunnier to more haunting rhythms provide enough dynamics to the record to prevent the nine tracks from sounding like one long song; just contrast the country folk charm of "Trenches" with the stark and dissonant "Budding" with the bluesy sway of "Juicy Fruit".

Cantry writes vivid, sharp lyrics and plays music that appropriately matches the imagery. One thing I would suggest is more effort dedicated to a hook, line, and sinker to make some of the tunes more instantly memorable. I would also encourage her to take more risks with her voice...I think her songs would benefit immensely with a few sustained notes or greater emotion. Highlights include "Trenches", "Forget", and "Everyday". Fans of coffeehouse singer/songwriters will eat this stuff up. I understand that some new material from Caitlin Canty is coming soon and I look forward to hearing it.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8

Caitlin Canty on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Jon McLaughlin "OK Now"

"OK Now", the latest from today's piano man, Jon McLaughlin, is quite a sharp turn from his impressive work thus far. Throwing the piano to the wind for the most part, Jon embraces 80s dance grooves and booty shaking rhythms. For those of us hoping and expecting another "Indiana", "OK Now" is a shock to the system. Going off in a new musical direction is always interesting and bold, but in this case the result is sickeningly commercial and boring. The attempt to be hip or contemporary in the vein of Maroon 5 is very transparent and just doesn't work for me. What have they done with poor Jon McLaughlin?

Jon's natural vocal talent and his stunning skills at tickling the ivories are greatly understated on this inflated and overly produced effort. The only track where this fusion of fluffy dance music works for me is on "You Can Never Go Back", largely because it sounds like E.L.O.. There is some potential with "Dance Your Life Away", a rare rocker featuring a crisp and crunchy guitar riff and 80s vibe, but the inane lyrics just kill it for me.

To be fair, there are a few more traditional Jon McLaughlin pieces to be appreciated, such as "Four Years", a handy guide to surviving the perils of high school. Other highlights include "The Middle", "Always On My Mind" (not a cover), and a reasonable ballad, "Throw My Love Around".

If you are a hardcore fan of Jon McLaughlin's past work and don't care much for Maroon 5, "OK Now" is one of those CDs where you are better off downloading individual tracks.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 5, 7, 10

Jon McLaughlin on MySpace. Official Site.

Review: Kyle Vincent "Where You Are"

The latest from AOR veteran Kyle Vincent has arrived. "Where You Are" finds the seasoned and grossly underrated singer/songwriter in top vocal form, exploring an array of retro pop subgenres from the 70s. Generally the tunes on this CD are piano-driven, upbeat and peppy with a bubblegum vibe, but firmly rooted in adult contemporary pop. The more rocking version of Kyle Vincent was left behind on this release, overshadowed by his gentler side.

Vincent has done a remarkable job emulating the feel good melodies and harmonies that made The Partridge Family and Bay City Rollers so irresistible to pop music fans. On the slower tunes, I am reminded of David Gates and Eric Carmen. Vincent drifts to falsetto and back with tremendous ease, and pulls out plenty of strings and sax to add some interesting dynamics to the mix. I don't think I've heard the sax in songs since the 80s! The lyrics are somewhat simple and infused with cliches, but are brimming with an optimism and hope that is well-suited to the sunny feel of the music. If you need a little something to cheer you up, listening to Kyle Vincent will do the trick.

Standouts include "It's Gonna Be A Great Day", "In Another Life", "Goin' Down", and the title track. "Where You Are" is exquisitely tailored to fans of 70s AM radio. In a way, it is analogous to what Butch Walker was going for with his "Letters" release (check out "Emily Standing"). But if you also enjoy modern soft pop artists, such as Mitch Malloy, Jude Cole, or Richard Marx, then don't let this one get away.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10

Kyle Vincent on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Ravines "Manifesto of a Broken Heart"

Chris Corney is the UK's answer to Cliff Hillis. Corney is the lead vocalist and songwriter for the outstanding rock and power pop band known as The Ravines, whose 2005 CD "Manifesto of a Broken Heart" is knocking my socks off. While released 4 years ago, it is nice to see these guys and their instant classic enjoying a well-deserved resurgence on the power pop circuit. It almost makes me feel like there is justice in the music world after all...

Despite it coming from the UK, "Manifesto of a Broken Heart" actually reminds me of some of the finest power pop rockers from Philly, such as John Faye/IKE, Open Cage, Idle Wilds, and the aforementioned Cliff Hillis. Others have accurately compared The Ravines to Greenberry Woods, The Rembrandts, and Gin Blossoms. Corney's voice pleasantly drifts over the melodic guitars, augmented with tons of spot on harmonies and backing vocals. There isn't a chorus on this record that hasn't imprinted on my brain almost immediately. The lyrics are also a highlight, with frequent bite and wit along the lines of what you'd find on a Wonder Stuff record.

Hard to pick favorites among a batch of songs that is so consistently awesome, but I'll encourage you to listen to "Supersize", "Rubberneck", "Queen of England", and the title track. In short, GET THIS - GET THIS - GET THIS. And if you like it, be sure to check out Chris Corney's solo effort, "Built to Be Burned Down".

iPOD-worthy: ALL TRACKS!

The Ravines on MySpace. Official site.

Review: L'Avventura "Your Star Was Shining" FREE MP3

"Your Star Was Shining" is the lastest release from the hot new San Francisco power pop band L'Avventura. Act quickly - you can download it for free until April 30, 2009 at their offical web site (link below).

L'Avventura is a hip blend of retro and modern pop. As evidence to this, they list their influences as "Buddy Holly meets The Flaming Lips". They remind me a lot of Fastball and Fountains of Wayne, with a dash of acoustic-driven indie pop the likes of Elliott Smith. My favorite tunes are stacked right up front and include "Swandive", "Pretend You Don't See Me", and "Rocket Sue".

Superb production, memorable melodies, and plenty of well-placed harmonies. What more could you want? And did I mention it is free right now?

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 7, 10

L'Avventura on MySpace. Official site.

Here's a direct link to one of my favorites, the T. Rex-like track, "Swandive", for you to download and enjoy. There is plenty more where that came from - just hit their web site soon!

Review: The Lonely Forest "We Sing the Body Electric!"

The Lonely Forest hail from Anacortes, WA, proximal to the city that altered the musical landscape in the 90s with grunge rock. There is still some grunge and garage rock in the veins of these boys, but like Nirvana, plenty of pop intuition as well. In fact, their latest effort (set for release on April 21, 2009), "We Sing The Body Electric!" builds from the grunge and pop fusion that worked so well with the aforementioned Seattle legend. In fact, Jack Endino, who has worked with Nirvana, has been drawn to work with The Lonely Forest.

The Lonely Forest deserve credit for steering clear of rock cliches and stale melodies - these guys are inventive. I think this is going to thrill indie pop rock fans, but for the readers who entrust me to recommend melodic rock, the pickings on this release are few and far between. By far and away, the best track is "We Sing in Time", one of the catchiest and instantly likable tunes of the year so far. I have hit replay so many times after this track that my index finger is numb. A CD full of tracks more like "We Sing in Time" will probably take these guys to the next level and get them some big time crossover success.

To my ears, there are a lot of late 90s overtones in The Lonely Forest, whose songs skillfully fuse garage, indie, grunge, and alternate rock with some punk thrown in for good measure. Vocalist John Van Deusen has a curious tone that reminds me of Coldplay or The Fray, but with considerably more gusto and attitude to match his band's unique sound. He's also one hell of piano player, and it is refreshing to hear it dominate on tracks like "Julia's Song" and "Tomato Soup". For fans of Cracker, Flickerstick, and early Jimmy Eat World, you will find solace under the canopy of The Lonely Forest.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 10, 11

The Lonely Forest on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video of "We Sing in Time":

Download Metallica concert tracks for free!

No joke - free and legal! Click here.

Brandon Schott Homegrown Recordings

Here's the latest Brandon Schott Homegrown Recordings: click here

Review: Paul Turner "Clear Blue"

"Clear Blue" is a musical meditation on life, awash in beautifully played acoustic guitar and overlaid with the delicate vocals of Australia's Paul Turner. Turner was moved to learn guitar after hearing Mason William's Grammy-winning instrumental hit from 1968, "Classical Gas".

"Clear Blue" is perfect reflection and relaxation music built on a foundation of stunning acoustic guitar. Sprouting from this foundation are plenty of strings and other goodies that serve to provide a more dynamic listening experience. While the hooks and melodies become more memorable after a few spins, there is no denying this music is pleasant to ingest - it goes down easy and leaves you feeling full and satisfied by the CD's completion in 31 minutes. The quiet build to an emotive climatic finish of opening track, "City Lights", makes it a standout track for me. "Love Meteorite" also 'struck' me as a highlight, as well as "Room", whose harmonica makes it sound like a cut from Sting's masterful "Ten Summoner's Tales". This is followed by one of the more haunting tracks on the record ("Poison") - a little bit of a dark cloud amid the clear blue. It's not only a great track, but breaks up the flow of the record and keeps it from sounding too homogeneous. Turner comes soaring back with the majestic "Come With Me", probably my favorite cut off the record. I am generally not a big fan of instrumental tracks, but the one included on "Clear Blue" (which happens to be the title track), is sublime.

If you enjoy acoustic-based singer/songwriters from Cat Stevens to The Williams Brothers to Glen Phillips, don't miss checking out Paul Turner. Additionally, if you are in charge of selecting songs for the next episode of Grey's Anatomy, consider some Paul Turner.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10

Paul Turner on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Bitter Tears "Jam Tarts In The Jakehouse"

The just-released CD "Jam Tarts In The Jakehouse" by Chicago's Bitter Tears is one of the most unique listening experiences you'll have all year...possibly in your entire life. Mix up the righteous angst of Bob Mould with the innovative musicianship of The Police, and stir in a healthy portion of independent goofiness a la They Might Be Giants and Ween, and you have something that begins to describe the genre-defying Bitter Tears. The Bitter Tears are the Evel Knievel of the modern rock world.

You'd think such a hodgepodge would result in a musical train wreck and, well, it does! But you can't help but rubberneck here - slowing down to get a closer look at the twisted metal, to watch the ominous black smoke make its way up to contaminate the white fluffy clouds. The Bitter Tears do not necessarily draw me in to listen, but once I start I can't bring myself to stop. It is just too damn interesting and you have no idea what they're going to do next, or whether they'll bring out piano, horns, strings, accordion, or good old fashioned acoustic guitar. Upon closer examination, you will begin to appreciate that there is a method to their madness, and they add enough hooks and harmonies here and there to keep you on the line to discover it.

Offbeat, crazy, coarse, and unpredictable - by all accounts, I should not be enjoying this CD at all. But there is something seductive in what they do that has me addicted and rushing out to friends, saying, "You've GOT to listen to this!" The Bitter Tears are wildly strange and surreal, but you won't forget them anytime soon.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 5, 8, 9

The Bitter Tears on MySpace. Official site.

Review: New People "The Easy Thing"

There are New People in Madison, WI. These New People I am referring to are a trio consisting of Matt Ackerman (guitar/vocals), Mark Lint (bass/vocals), and Julian Salgado Laredo (drums). Matt and Mark tag team with the singing and songwriting, like John Rzeznik and Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls.

As the cool cartoon artwork implies, these guys seem to make having fun the priority here. They describe their music as so: "We're aiming for direct rock/pop here with nice harmonies over a sort of a grunge base, but we've got wide tastes, and the music will inevitably reflect that". After listening to "The Easy Thing", I'd have to agree. The guitar tones and their playing style does smack of grunge or garage, but there are lots of other elements in the music that add a poppier shine to the majority of the tracks. For example, the guys make great effort to incorporate memorable harmonies into every track.

Highlights for me included "Love is the Problem", "Kite", and "New People". Sample some tracks for yourself today at their web site below and see if these people speak your language. Especially recommended if you like Local H, Eve 6, and Meatpuppets.

The New People : Official site.

Music video for "Love Is The Problem":

Review: Mark Kano "Walking on Broadway" [EP]

Mark Kano is the powerful voice behind the 90s alternative rock band called Athenaeum - remember their 1998 hit "What I Didn't Know" off "Radiance"? See our reviews of Athenaeum here. Fans like me who have missed this band and lead singer Mark Kano's distinctive vocals have reason to celebrate with the release of his first solo CD, "Walking on Broadway".

The 8 tracks on this release will take you back to the late 90s when post-grunge bands like Toad the Wet Sprocket, Gin Blossoms, and Better Than Ezra were dominating the charts. As Kano's deep and rich voice pretty much defined the sound of Athenaeum, it is no surprise that "Walking on Broadway" sounds very much like his old band. For me, it is a familiar sound that triggers nostalgia for the past.

But for those who do not have memories of Athenaeum, Mark Kano is still going to impress you with his brand of melodic rock. Add to the mix the skilled hand of Gavin MacKillop (Toad The Wet Sprocket, Goo Goo Dolls, Athenaeum) and you have an unbeatable collection of sonically brilliant pop rock tunes. There is a 50/50 mix of ballads and mid-tempo rockers; lyrically, Kano keeps things simple and sincere. The title track is an obvious standout, with Mark Kano's love for Big Wreck shining through. My other favorites include the slow burner, "I'm Still Waiting", and the swirling and soaring, "Where Were You Last Night", which may be one of Kano's most creative vocal performances to date.

It is great to hear Mark Kano sing his music once again. I am eager to hear more!

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6

Mark Kano on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Alternate Routes "A Sucker's Dream"

Faithful readers of this blog know I am a sucker for The Alternate Routes, exhibit A and exhibit B. Their full-length debut, "Good and Reckless and True" was one of the best CDs of 2005 in my opinion; it was passionate, earnest, and organic. They followed this up with the highly respectable "Watershed EP", which certainly whet the appetite for this long awaited sophomore release.

"A Sucker's Dream" is no sophomore jinx, but I'm afraid it is not going to help make The Alternate Routes a household name - I hope I am wrong, because these guys have a monopoly on talent. I just don't think it is maximized on this record. Normally, vocalist Tim Warren contributes a rather extraordinary performance, but on this release he seems to take a backseat to everything else going on. That is a shame. I kept waiting for more spine-tinging moments like those experienced when listening to "Ordinary", but such moments never came. The songs are a bit busier, which is cool at times, but it often distracts from the organic feel that made "Good and Reckless and True" a winner for me. The one moment that is stripped down is the breezy "Desdemona", but this tune is so drawn out and dull even backing vocals from Patty Griffin fail to salvage it.

The good news is that The Alternate Routes have maintained their sense of melody and lyrical competence in the majority of the songs. One-liner gems like "The future's nothing new - just another day to miss the things we used to do" permeate the record. The chord changes are wonderful and Eric Donnelly's lead guitar work rivals that of Dada. And even though he seems to have avoided vocally challenging himself this time out, Tim Warren still sounds charming and soulful. Standout tracks include the festive "On and On We Whisper", "Ain't No Secret", the Lennon-esque "All a Dream", the high octane title track, and the very catchy and reflective closer, "A Better Way".

If you enjoy Ryan Adams, Matt Nathanson, or The Finn Brothers, check out The Alternate Routes.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 11

The Alternate Routes on MySpace. Official site.

Music video:

Review: The Killdares "Secrets of the Day"

"Secrets of the Day" is the 5th full-length CD by the Celtic rock band known as The Killdares. Together since 1996, their fifth outing finds the band in top form, playing better than ever in the niche they have carved out for themselves. They are one of the busiest and hardest working bands, showcasing their unique sound at tons of pubs and festivals in Texas and beyond. After listening to "Secrets of the Day", it is no surprise to me that they are in such high demand - this kind of music is best experienced live in a pub with a pint in hand.

So what do they sound like? Imagine a Celtic version of Collective Soul, complete with blazing bagpipes and a fiery fiddle. Tim Smith, who does the lead vocals as well as the drums, sounds like a cross between Michael Glabicki of Rusted Root and System Of A Down's Serj Tankian. I know that might be hard to fathom, but his intriguing vocal tone is well suited the band's sound: a marriage of traditional world music with modern alternative rock. The only trouble I had was some difficultly hearing the vocals, which got buried in the mix at times. I can't hear them at all on "Long Island High", "Glasgow", and "Rose de Lay" - oh wait, those are instrumentals haha!

If you enjoy bands like Black 47, Rusted Root, Dexy's Midnight Runners, or even Yellowcard, you should take note of The Killdares. I draw your attention to "Seasons", "Hold My Heart", "Disappear", and "Perfect Accident".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 6, 10

The Killdares on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Ness "You Can't Afford To Feel"

After reading this from their bio, I really didn't know what to expect from this CD by Ness: "Describing 'You Can’t Afford To Feel' is like opening a Pandora’s box of chimerical rock metaphors. Its unholy mixture of classic pop and epic reach is like Ray Davies wearing chain mail and jousting a tower of Vox AC30s, or Todd Rundgren daydreaming with a 23-sided die stuck in his ear."

One thing was for sure - this was going to be an interesting and unique listening experience. "You Can't Afford To Feel" passes with flying colors in this regard - I've not heard anything quite as varied, ambitious, and experimental since early Pink Floyd. Brainchild behind the project, Rick Ness, has no shortage of musical influences that he's managed to pay tribute to through his own hybrid music. It is quite astounding how he can sound like Jason Falkner (while in The Grays) on some tracks, like the Beach Boys on other tracks, and then the Beatles or The Who on other tracks. Often you can hear his plethora of influences right in the same song! Ness is a bold pioneer, pushing the musical envelope with experimental sounds and unorthodox song structure. One opus, “The Future Used To Be Cool” clocks in at over 24 minutes and truly feels more like a trek beyond the galaxy rather than another routine lap around the sun.

"You Can't Afford To Feel" is an awesome ride, one best experienced in its entirety with headphones. However, there are a few standout tracks that also play well in isolation, including the brilliant and soaring opener, "Where's Guns?", "I Intend", and "Pretty White".

This CD is not commercial. It is not radio friendly. It is a work of art.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 7

Ness on MySpace.

Review: McTwist "Amateur Hour"

Formed in Rockville, Maryland in 2007, the new 'cocktail rock' band McTwist is off to a solid start with their debut record, "Amateur Hour". They are not named after some sweet chocolate-vanilla confection available at McDonalds; McTwist refers to a skateboarding move first performed in the 80s by Mike McGill. But there is plenty of literal twisting evident in their music, as it is a hardy blend of many rock subgenres, including pop, alternative, punk/emo, and ska. Often, this kind of musical identity crises drives a listener insane, but kudos to McTwist for emerging from this sonic blender with a surprisingly distinct and identifiable sound of their own.

Despite the self-effacing name of the CD, the band sounds more seasoned and experienced than what you would expect for a bunch of enthusiastic "amateurs". The passion for what they do leaps right out of the speakers with an energy that is usually felt only during a live performance. The vocals come across like a combination between Vinnie Dombroski (Sponge) and Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day), sounding more than appropriate for this hodge-podge of different rock styles. The witty and sometimes amusing lyrics are also a cut above your average new band on the block. However, what does sound a tad amateurish is the lead guitar work, which merely stabs at the notes rather than creating a soulful flow between them.

Highlights for me include the feisty lead-off track, "Word Proof Vest", the very catchy "Prizefighter", and the fun sing-a-long jam, "Brianna". Much of the other stuff is OK, just not as melodic or engaging as the standouts.

They remind me of bands like Sponge, Green Day, and For Squirrels - not just because the vocal tone is similar, but also because of the songwriting structure and their ability to mix multiple forms of rock into something that is still infectious and entertaining. While it has its flaws, "Amateur Hour" is a remarkable debut by a promising young band. I will be keeping my eye on these guys and can't wait to hear what they do next.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 7, 8, 11

McTwist on MySpace.

Review: Chrissy Coughlin "Look Ahead"

Chrissy Coughlin has created a little something for everyone on her latest CD release, "Look Ahead". Want to hear some melodic country rock? Check out the infectious opening track, "Back to You". Want to hear some blues or jazz? Check out "Big Log" and "Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars", respectively. Or how about a gorgeous piano ballad? Try some of the title track.

The common thread that strings these varied genres together into a vibrant musical tapestry is the crystal clear and angelic voice of Chrissy Coughlin. Her vocal tone sometimes reveals an innocent quality that reminds me of Jewel, but at other times there is greater depth and maturity that is more reminiscent of Sheryl Crow or Alison Krauss. Despite the genre hopping, which showcases Coughlin's breadth of musical skill, the CD plays very consistently and works extremely well when listened to in its entirety. With its generally subtle and warm tone, comforting and introspective lyrics, "Look Ahead" is a wonderful CD that serves as your cozy blanket on those rainy days. On top of this, the musicianship and production are top-notch, professional grade, providing a truly pleasurable listening experience.

Standout tracks include "Back To You", "Perfect Time", and "Do It Out Of Love". My favorite track is the sublime "Look Ahead", one of the best piano ballads I've heard so far this year. Coughlin's "Look Ahead" is a near masterpiece, and highly recommended if you enjoy Sheryl Crow, Jewel, or Colbie Caillat.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10

Chrissy Coughlin on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Mitch Friedman "Game Show Teeth"

"Game Show Teeth" is the fourth album of quirky pop from Brooklyn’s Mitch Friedman. While the record was produced, performed and engineered almost entirely by Friedman, he once again brings in some very familiar names from XTC to join in the fun. Andy Partridge contributes some of his trademark guitar licks to “Little Masterpiece,” while Dave Gregory jams on "The Man That Talked Too Much".

Mitch Friedman's brand of pop is playfully "out there", ranging from clever and witty to downright goofy. The comical cover of the CD is a good representation of what you are about to hear. Vocally and musically, Mitch Friedman holds his own, although his vocal tone seems tailored for kids' music or novelty records. Truth be told, most people who prefer this subgenre of pop don't care about that and are just listening for a good laugh - and they should find plenty on "Game Show Teeth". If funny and eccentric pop music is your bag, Mitch Friedman will delight you like no other. In fact, it might make you feel like a kid again. Personally, I can only handle stuff like this in small doses or while really drunk in Vegas.

Audition some Mitch Friedman if you enjoy They Might Be Giants or XTC. If you are not into artists who fuse comedy, kids play, and novelty with their brand of pop, you may want to come up with an excuse to miss this party.

Mitch Friedman on MySpace. Official site. And finally, a web site that is devoted to the "Game Show Teeth" CD.

Check out the music video for "This Is A Song":

THIS IS A SONG by Mitch Friedman
by gameshowteeth

Morrissey "Years of Refusal" for less than 4 bucks

The long-awaited new CD by former Smiths frontman, Morrissey, is now available. I have not given it a full and thorough listen yet, but it already sounds better than his 2006 effort, "Ringleader Of The Tormentors". My first impression is that it is one of his more rocking efforts in a long time. But I am posting now because you can get the new CD in its entirety in mp3 format for only $3.99 at Amazon.com. I jumped on it - I do not know how long the offer will last.

Review: Alan Cohen Experience "Alan Cohen Experience" [EP]

Um, OK. I'm thrown for a loop right from the get-go: "All's quiet on the waterfront, it's just me and my elephant." I can't tell you how many times I wish I had a song to play when my elephant and I are in proximity to peaceful waters.

This is the kind of experience you are in for when you listen to this unusual EP from Alan Cohen. An eccentric collection of six intriguing tracks will grab your attention if anything else. Its unorthodox tendencies aside, the production is top-notch, brimming with lush orchestration, crisp guitars, and interesting sound effects. In addition, many of these tunes have a wonderfully infectious chorus that is centered in more familiar musical terrain. In a way, each one of these melodic choruses is like an oasis in a song that is otherwise boldly atypical.

Alan Cohen Experience is not the most common thing I'd order off my music menu, but it gets high marks for being engagingly different. This is one I'd recommend for fans of Frank Zappa, Cake, and other pioneers of eclectic pop. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary but still catchy and expertly performed, look no further than Alan Cohen Experience.

Perhaps as an extension of the track "Space Watch", Alan Cohen is currently working on his next concept album, inspired by Stephen Hawking's "A Brief History of Time". Watch this 'space' to find out if it is a big bang or black hole!

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3

Alan Cohen Experience on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Kirby Swatosh "Toys in the Static"

"Toys in the Static" is the latest release from singer/songwriter Kirby Swatosh. Kirby lists influences as diverse as Dada, The Beatles, Barenaked Ladies, and James Taylor. His music is largely upbeat and on the sunny side, with some sticky melodies here and there and a handful of clever lyrical moments.

I am finding it difficult to get past the lo-fi sound quality of the record. The acoustic guitar tone on most of the tracks does not appeal to me at all; however, it sounds much better on the brief instrumental, "Luna Calypso" and on the track "Thief". The guitar solos are largely staccato with little flow between the notes, resulting in an amateurish sound that is devoid of soul. Kirby's vocals are unremarkable and some of the harmonies sound off key at times (especially "NYNY"). Critiques aside, with some more experience and perhaps additional collaborations to take the production up towards a more professional level, Kirby Swatosh could become a potent songwriting force.

Kirby Swatosh on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Damnwells "One Last Century"

"As of February 10, 2009, Paste Magazine will be offering the new Damnwells record, One Last Century, for free download from their website. Go to www.pastemagazine.com/thedamnwells and download the record for free.

A few words regarding this free record.

I suppose the hardest thing to explain to people is why I’m giving this record away. “You’re just going to give it away?” seems antithetical to the human brain. “Is this just a bunch of b-sides or something? Some ‘give away’ material you don’t mind releasing into the ether?” No. Quite the contrary. I have never worked so hard or put so much of myself into a collection of recorded songs. It is for just this reason that I want to give it away. To me it makes perfect sense. I just want people to hear this music, and I don’t want them to have to enter into some kind of contractual agreement with a third party to do so. Download the record, copy it and give it to your friends, lovers, and enemies. Whatever. It’s so hard these days just to get the actual music into people’s houses and cars, let alone their ears. Besides, I know everyone’s broke, maybe I can supply the soundtrack. So, I just want to give this music away because I want people to hear it. I should have done this years ago. I’m starting over.

Enjoy, Alex Dezen"

BMF: Wow - a FREE record from a marvelous band! This is becoming more and more common (yeah!), so the questions that now emerge are: is it worth my time and is it worth taking up space on my hard drive? In the case of The Damnwells, the answer to both of these questions is an enthusiastic YES! For those not aware, The Damnwells are rapidly rising as the premier acoustic-based rock band. Fans of artists like The Jayhawks and Wilco are going to fall in love with The Damnwells. "One Last Century" is full of timeless, easy-going jangle pop and folk rock that is both melodic and lyrically engaging.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8

The Damnwells on MySpace. Official site.

New video: Jellybricks "Ruin Us"

This is so cool!

"By special agreement* with the creators of Rock Band 2, here's the video for "Ruin Us," off our most recent album, "Goodnight to Everyone." "Goodnight to Everyone" is available for download on the iTunes Store, amazon.com and other digital music merchants. CDs available at cdbaby.com and koolkatmusik.com. Pirated copies available on many fine BitTorrent sites.

*we agreed to pay money in return for a copy of the game" - The Jellybricks

Check it out:

Review: Jim Basnight "We Rocked and Rolled"

Disclosed Records has just released this 23 track career retrospective CD titled "We Rocked and Rolled: The First 25 Years of Jim Basnight: The Moberlys and Beyond". We've reviewed a couple releases by this Seattle-based rock and roll warrior, including his acclaimed "Seattle-New York-Los Angeles" CD with The Moberlys and "Makin' Bacon" with The Rockinghams. "We Rocked and Rolled" is a long overdue collection of some of the finest slices of rock and power pop from this prolific and grossly underrated talent.

The CD is arranged chronologically, beginning with some true gems from the beginning of Jim Basnight's musical career in the early 80s. His knack for writing killer pop rock hooks shows itself immediately with the infectious opener, "You Know, I Know" and the merry "Live In The Sun". His initial sound captured the bubblegum spirit of the great 60s groups such as Tommy James or The Buckinghams, but his style of garage rock kept it sounding real and genuine - bubblegum with a bite! Then he moved into Replacements territory, represented with cuts like "I Wanna Be Yours" and "Lose Me", even vocally sounding like a cross between Paul Westerberg and Mick Jagger.

Featured next on this collection are plenty of his choice cuts with The Rockinghams, including "Need A Car", "Hello Mary Jane", "Rock and Roll Girlfriend", "More Than One Way" and my favorite, "Space". The gritty tracks he recorded during this period had a distinct blues bar feel to them and remind many of early Rolling Stones. The CD closes with some more recent chapters in the Jim Basnight testament to rock and roll, including a newly recorded version of "We Rocked and Rolled" that pretty much sums it all up.

What I enjoyed most about this retrospective is listening to how Jim Basnight evolved as an artist over the past 25 years. Expanding into new musical territory while retaining your distinctive sound is a rare accomplishment, but Basnight seems to pull it off with ease. Here's to another 25 exciting years...

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 16, 17, 23

Jim Basnight on MySpace. Official site.

Brandon Schott "Homegrown Recordings" Free mp3

From Too Poppy...

"I've partnered with Brandon Schott and he's promised to deliver an unreleased tune from his personal archives every month as a free download. The first installment: a stellar cover of Bjork's 'All is Full of Love'. Check it out here."

Brandon Schott on MySpace.

Rare CD: Mortal Kombat II

"This is the ultra rare Mortal Kombat II (2) Arcade Game Soundtrack put out by Midway.
NOT A COPY this auction is for the 1993 original CD.
The CD was only available via a mail away offer from Midway back in 1993 and features BOTH soundtracks from MORTAL KOMBAT and MORTAL KOMBAT 2."

Sold for $302.99 on ebay (15 bids).

Rare CD: Jeremy Camp "Burden Me"

"This is the rare and extremely hard to find "Burden Me" CD from Jeremy Camp. It is his original self released CD. This CD has been used by me. I purchased it new a few years ago when Jeremy Camp was performing at Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa, CA. Item is in great condition. CD and case have minor scratches consistent with normal wear. CD plays great. I need to raise money so I have to let this favorite of mine go."

Sold for $322.55 on ebay (27 bids).

Going for $400 on Amazon.

Rare CD: Unique "Rock Down"

"ORIGINAL CD BY UNIQUE ENTITLED ROCK DOWN. LONG OUT OF PRINT AND NO LONGER MADE. ISSUED IN 1989. INSERTS ARE IN NICE CLEAN EXCELLENT CONDITION. CD IS IN NICE CLEAN EXCELLENT CONDITION (I SEE NO SCRATCHES). JEWEL CASE BRAND NEW. NOT A CUTOUT, PROMO, OR RECORD CLUB ISSUE. TRACK LISTING: HEART ON FIRE- CAN'T STOP- FEEL THE HEAT- YOU AND I- A MAN'S TEARS- ANGIE- NO MORE TIME- YOU LEAVE ME NOW- LONELY CHILD- ROCK DOWN- PAIN- YOU'RE THE ONLY THING- SURPRISE..."

Sold for $700 on ebay.

Rare CD: Rolling Stones "Terrifying" Promo

"This item is a rare Columbia Records promotional compact disc single by The Rolling Stones containing 2 songs. Songs are 'Terrifying' (4:52) and 'Rock And A Hard Place' (rock mix edit) (5:49). Disc label and number is Columbia CSK 1897. This single was released to select radio stations only and features a version of 'Rock In A Hard Place' which is exclusive to this CD single. This track was remixed by Michael Brauer and edit was done by Mike Corbett. Original version is on the 'Steel Wheels' CD. Disc comes in a plain jewel case with no artwork which is how i received it originally. CD itself is brand new with no scratches or scuffs and was played once! (I'm the original owner). A rare Rolling Stones CD single and a great addition to your Stones collection!"

Sold for $1,525 on ebay (38 bids)

Review: Ken Block "Drift"

"Drift" is the first solo CD from Ken Block (Sister Hazel). After a few listens, it is a bit unclear to me why he bothered to do a solo project that sounds nothing unlike Sister Hazel. His Sister Hazel bandmates contribute extensively to this record, most notably Drew Copeland . Drew's vocal support produces the trademark Sister Hazel harmonies. In essence, there is virtually no "drift" from Sister Hazel at all, perhaps explaining why I like this record so much.

Ken Block explores familiar lyrical terrain on "Drift", pondering life's mysteries with a sense of humor and sarcasm. He challenges us to converse about the big questions, most notably on "We Don't Talk Anymore", as he reflects upon life in his charming and sometimes self-effacing way. There is an abundance of good acoustic-based rockers on this one, with several nice ballads thrown in for good measure. Thankfully, "Drift" is not a mere collection of Ken's inferior songs that the guys from Sister Hazel might have vetoed.

"Blue To A Blind Man" is a gentle opener featuring Ken Block in a rare duet with the beautifully sweet voice of Maile Misajon. Ken kicks up some dirt with the crunchy mid-tempo rocker, "The Other Side". He recounts his previous struggle with addiction in "Completely Wasted", gives Steve Miller a nod in "It's Alright" (hoo hoo), and rides high on an alt-country rocker called "I Don't Mind" (video below). "Better This Way" sounds like a sequel to "Champaign High", but it doesn't top it. The record has a very strong finish with a string of standout tracks such as "So Far", "Ride", and "You and Me".

Ken Block is one of the most genuine and honest songwriters out there today. If you enjoy "Drift", you should become a "Hazelnut" and forage into his complete discography with Sister Hazel.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12

Ken Block on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "I Don't Mind":

Review: The Shadow Kabinet "Smiling Worlds Apart"

The Shadow Kabinet is the vehicle for one-man band Steve Somerset to showcase his penchant for Beatlesque melodies and harmonies. The multi-talented Somerset does just about everything on the aptly named "Smiling Worlds Apart". The music seems designed to gently lift your spirits and put on a smile on your face. With tracks like "Trouble and Strife", The Shadow Kabinet is always there with words of encouragement for you.

Musically and vocally The Shadow Kabinet reminds me more of Julian Lennon, particularly during the "Help Yourself" period. The vocals are smooth and soothing, especially on the majestic opening track, "There Must Have Been A Moment". Somerset is a versatile songwriter, going beyond the comfort zone of strict Beatles styled songwriting to venture into surf rock ("Surfing on the Shadows"), psychedelia (the title track), novelty pop ("Bad Hair Day"), and even a bit of baroque music ("Tabla Motown"). The impressive 19 song set, clocking in over an hour, provides plenty of tasty morsels for those who are hungering for a classic pop buffet.

Standout dishes served from The Shadow Kabinet that appeal to my palate the most include "There Must Have Been A Moment", "Office Life", "Is She?", and "She Rules The Roost".

The Shadow Kabinet is a wonderful opportunity to experience the shimmering and soothing sounds from a bygone era in pop music history. Somerset's songwriting style and vocals will trigger intense feelings of nostalgia for more seasoned music fans. With any luck, he will also recruit a new legion of younger music fans to join in the appreciation of this classic sound as Andy Partridge (XTC) has done.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 14, 17

The Shadow Kabinet on MySpace. Official site and videos.

Review: The Warm Fuzzies "The Bubblegum EP" [EP]

Two words can sum up the The Warm Fuzzies: FUN WEEZER. It is hard not to like a band that is so creative with its packaging; "The Bubblegum EP" CD arrives in a cardboard folder that looks like the classic Bazooka Joe gum wrap. The liner notes are in comic strip form. The CD itself is noted as being a scratch and sniff disc that smells like bubblegum, but I scratched the hell out of this thing and it did not smell like bubblegum.

Then I flipped it over and scratched the pink nonplaying side...cool! It really works! I felt like a kid in a candy store. And I got some funny stares from my wife as I sat there laughing while inhaling a CD. Aroma aside, listening to The Warm Fuzzies reinforced the feeling that I was a kid in a candy store. Still, I don't think this music is best classified as "bubblegum". I believe it more accurate to say it is alternative rock, strongly resembling early Weezer. The Warm Fuzzies do provide a sense of warmth by flexing their funny bone in their music. So if you like alternative, fuzzy guitar rock with amusing lyrics and subject matter, then you need to check out these guys. A better name for this band could not have been proposed.

The band buzzes through six tracks that range from an ode to cheese ("Queso Love") to contemplating some of the more significant philosophical questions of our time, such as "Why Do Girls Wear Big Sunglasses?". My favorite track is the witty and melodic "Space Invaders", strategically complemented with arcade game synths. Speaking of which, the record is heavy with vintage keyboard riffs that will remind you of The Cars. So in a nutshell, I can best characterize The Warm Fuzzies as what Weezer would have sounded like if they made records in the 80s with Ric Ocasek as producer. If you don't get Weezer, The Warm Fuzzies will rub you the wrong way. But you should get the disc anyway because the scratch and sniff feature is wild.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 5

The Warm Fuzzies on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Hoobastank "For(N)ever"

The fourth Island release is a do or die for alternative hard rockers Hoobastank. Their first two records yielded hit after hit, climaxing with the smash single, "The Reason", in 2004, which made it to #2 on the BillBoard Top100 - quite an achievement these days for a rock band. But in 2006 the uneven "Every Man for Himself" fizzled quick, threatening to jettison Hoobastank from the charts forever. So "For(N)ever" has to be killer.

It is evident the band is aware of their predicament, as the lead singer Doug Robb reflects on the blistering opener, "Yesterday I've learned from, tomorrow is uncertain; so why can't I just make my turn today?" "My Turn" marks a nice return to the classic Hoobastank formula of hard, yet melodic, alternative rock. There is a renewed sense of energy and hunger for their chart-topping days to return. So Hoobastank follow all the right corporate steps: they dumbed down the lyrics, included a large share of syrupy ballads, and wrote some by-the-book melodies. The good news is that for the most part this works in making for a decent hard rock experience, even if the lyrics are trivial and bland.

Highlights among the meaty rockers include "My Turn", "Who The Hell Am I?", and "All About You". I also enjoyed the refreshing piano-driven track, "Tears Of Yesterday". There are a couple guilty pleasures - "So Close, So Far" and "You're The One" - both grand ballads that are blatant attempts to repeat what "The Reason" did for them 5 years ago. As if two atempts to repeat "The Reason" weren't enough, there is yet another weaker clone ballad to follow ("You Need To Be Here").

The verdict: Doug Robb sounds at his best, the others in the band are tight, and guitar tone choices are perfect. I applaud the effort here and think the record is far better than its predecessor. But I'm afraid "For(N)ever" is not going to be the triumph the band needed - it has several good hits, but they had to knock the ball out of the park with every song.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 4, 6, 9

Hoobastank on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "My Turn"

Review: Josh Fix "Free At Last"

The package arrived with a return address of "Flop of the Year". With such a ringing endorsement, I couldn't wait to hear this CD by the modest Josh Fix.

"Free At Last" is certainly no flop; on the contrary, it is one of the best CDs I have heard all year. How can something that sounds this unbelievably good be accomplished by an indie artist, who pretty much plays everything and sings every note on the record? "Free At Last" is a monumental achievement, something you'd expect from the most seasoned of artists.

The grand and sweeping musical style with piano front and center will appeal to fans of Gavin DeGraw, Melêe, and Ben Folds. The complexity in the arrangements of these tunes is mesmerizing, yet his pop sensibilities keep everything catchy and memorable - very much like New Radicals. His voice is fantastic, with harmony vocals evoking Queen, Jellyfish, and ELO. Lyrically it doesn't get much better, as Josh Fix brilliantly balances poetry with satire. There is virtually nothing about "Free At Last" that doesn't work.

The party begins with the upbeat opener about the daily grind, "Don't Call Me in the Morning", which will enable you to smile and take it all in stride. "Whiskey & Speed" is an addictive track, and "Rock and Roll Slut" is destined to become the next great wedding song. Like the title track, "Burn It Down" and "Tiger on a Treadmill" continue to cast a fresh look on the every day circumstances that constitute our lives. Josh Fix sets a new bar for Ben Folds with his hilarious and biting critique of no-talents hacks, "Bad with the Superbad". He proves he's no one-trick piano pony with the acoustic guitar-driven title track and "What's the Point", the latter of which features a line all of us guys can relate to: "I know I'll find a way to screw things up with you".

Remarkably, Josh Fix performs all "vocals, bass, acoustic/electric guitars, Hammond B3, keyboards, loops & computer programming, percussion, arrangements & Eno-isms, more vocals, an antique Emerson upright piano, miscellany", while Andy Korn takes care of the drums. To call him an overachiever is an understatement. End the insanity and help bring justice to the world by buying this CD today and helping to spread the word. Make the music of Josh Fix a permanent fixture in your house.

iPOD-worthy: ALL TRACKS!

Josh Fix on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Canadian Invasion "Three Cheers for the Invisible Hand"

Rising up from the land that has sprouted many wondrous power pop bands - no, not Canada, but Philadelphia of course - is Canadian Invasion. What is it about the City of Brotherly Love that cultivates such a great sense of melody and harmony?

In 2006, Canadian Invasion burst onto the scene with the acclaimed "Songs for the Atco Ghost, described by Philly Weekly as "breathy jangle that’s both bubblegum and alt-country". The upcoming release, "Three Cheers for the Invisible Hand", is poised to cement Canadian Invasion's status as a major player in modern power pop and alt-country rock. But what is up with the name? Vocalist and guitarist Andy Canadian explains, “Our songs are a satirical assault on American ‘values’. We call ourselves ‘America’s last line of defense against the evil Canadian socialist empire’s pernicious ideology of cheap health care and gun control'...We want catchy pop songs that remind you that your life is fairly absurd.”

With some of the most interesting song titles this side of Fall Out Boy, more hooks than a Bait & Tackle shop, and harmonies as graceful as those of Toad the Wet Sprocket, Canadian Invasion is out to infiltrate your brain until you wave the white flag and unconditionally surrender a few dozen memory cells to their melodies. "Three Cheers for the Invisible Hand" is some tremendously entertaining jangle pop - as funny as it is catchy - like The Jayhawks doing stand up. How can you resist being intrigued by a song titled "Standing On The Shoulders Of The Carcass Of John Mayer"?

There's hardly a dud in this platoon of tunes, but my favs include "Pop Magic Fantastical Masterpiece”, "The Last Time I Went To Church" (complete with church organ), and the title track. Fans of Pernice Brothers, Town and Country, Teenage Fanclub, and Wilco...prepare to be invaded.

"Three Cheers for the Invisible Hand" drops February 17. Get it here.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10

Canadian Invasion on MySpace.

Check out the video for "One Hand Claps the Other":

Review: David Cook "David Cook"

David Cook: the first American Idol winner to release an album I actually like! I had a feeling this one might be good given his incredible voice, which booms with natural talent for singing classic rock.

A few more things in Cook's favor: Rob Cavallo is at the helm as producer, noted for his work with Green Day, Goo Goo Dolls, and Shinedown to name a few. Cavallo and mixer Chris Lord-Alge give the record a highly polished and thundering sound, but balance things well so that Cook's remarkable voice is not six feet under in the mix. And that is a good thing since some of these songs would only be so-so if sung be anyone else. Some other big hitters have helped Cook forge this impressive record full of radio friendly fodder, including some of his influences such as Chris Cornell, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, and Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace. In addition, Johnny Rzeznik (Goo Goo Dolls) helps with the rocking "Declaration" and Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra) contributes to the amazing "Avalanche". Consequently, there is a strong 90s alternative rock vibe permeating this record.

One thing about this record that REALLY irks me is the huge gap of silence separating "A Daily Anthem" and a hidden bonus track I'll call "Just A Kiss On The Neck". This makes track 12 over 15 minutes long, much of it being silence. Why do artists/producers still do this?! Seriously, what is the point? Make it a separate track for crying out loud!

David Cook will appeal to anyone who digs Daughtry, Shinedown, or Big Wreck. Born from American Idol, the record does veer more toward the 'Hollywood' side of things, but under the glitz and makeup is a true talent with his heart in it. The lyrics are certainly a step up from the typical sap that oozes from the nozzle of American Idol. On "David Cook", there are hooks aplenty, huge guitars, and an exceptionally talented dude who sings his lungs out - what more could you want?

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 10, 12 (actually two songs that you'll have to crop with MP3 DIRECT CUT or equivalent)
My CD had two bonus tracks...the stereotypical American Idol finale song, "The Time Of My Life", which really sticks out like a sore thumb here, and "Breathe Tonight", which is tons better - a catchy and upbeat tune that sounds right at home with the front half of the CD.

David Cook on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Light On"

Review: Bruce Springsteen "Working On A Dream"

The Boss is back, once again with Brendan O'Brien on board as producer. I was really looking forward to "Working On A Dream" as I was a big fan of "Magic", which marked a return of sorts to a sunnier and poppier side of Springsteen. While many complained about the awful sound and questionable mix on "Magic", few will deny the songs were highly melodic. The good news is that O'Brien did a better job with the sound quality on this record. The bad news is that Springsteen brought a fairly mediocre batch of songs to the studio.

The record starts with the curious "Outlaw Pete", a 3 minute story that he takes 8 minutes to tell. It is the musical equivalent of that movie "The English Patient" - an epic piece of art that I feel guilty for not liking. Probably realizing he'd better redeem himself quick, "My Lucky Day" follows as a familiar and upbeat slice of classic Springsteen - arguably the best track on the record. The title track, which was performed at an Obama rally and at the Superbowl, is a fairly decent cut, a pleasant midtempo song but not in league with most of his past hits. "Queen of the Supermarket" comes off as a joke, although we know this is not his intention - the lush production just makes this song about a common man yearning for a grocery clerk even more incredulous.

I liked "What Love Can Do", "This Life", and "Kingdom of Days", which are tracks that sound like quality leftovers from the "Magic" sessions. I can't figure out why they thought it would be a good idea to overly distort the vocals on "Good Eye", rendering this bluesy track virtually unlistenable. Springsteen does some Bob Dylan on "Tomorrow Never Knows"; again, nothing wrong with it, but nothing overly right about it either. The somber and reflective "Life Itself" is pretty interesting, with a catchy chorus sandwiched between verses that sound like David Gilmour is playing guitar. "Surprise, Surprise" is the closest I recall Springsteen getting to bubblegum pop, but it is a 'surprisingly' trite and repetitive lyric, probably written to celebrate Patti's birthday. With the number of times he says 'surprise' in this song, you'd fear Patti must be going deaf. "The Wrestler", a song used in the acclaimed movie of the same name, is included as a bonus track, but that track doesn't do much for me.

"Working On A Dream" is not the strongest record in Springsteen's amazing catalogue, but we can't expect a masterpiece every time. I will probably reach for his classics or "Magic" before this one.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10

Bruce Springsteen : official site.