Review: Willy Porter "How To Rob A Bank"

When it comes to intelligent music that is meaningful as well as entertaining for adults, we don't have a lot of choices. That is where Willy Porter steps in...

Since 1990, Willy Porter has been quietly wowing audiences around the world with his virtuoso acoustic guitar playing, soulful voice, and emotive lyrics. The guitar is stunning - a cross between the guitar gymnastics mastered by Michael Hedges and the pop sensibilities of Lindsey Buckingham. With his latest release, "How To Rob A Bank", Porter has outdone himself. Everything he's learned during his two decades in the trenches culminates here, resulting in one of the most consistently mesmerizing discs of his notable career.

I can't understate how terrific "How To Rob A Bank" is, and it just gets better with each spin. The tunes that don't quite grab you the first go around will sink their subtle hooks into you shortly, and you'll be glad for it. Porter covers a lot of ground on this CD, from his insightful looks into interpersonal relationships through experienced eyes, to a heart wrenching story about a multi-generational family of soldiers, to the despicable corruption in corporations and politics. Musically, he infuses numerous genres with ease while maintaining his characteristic sound, largely due to his acoustic guitar being front and center. These are the kinds of smart, hip songs you'd expect to hear at the end of an episode of House, M.D. Vocally, I would liken Porter's skills to the talents of John Mayer and David Mead.

There isn't a song I don't appreciate, but the tracks I am particularly fond of include the tuneful "Colored Lights", "The Lemon Tree" (probably prompting Paul McCartney to check his catalogue for possible pilfering), the Bob Dylan flavor of the sad but true title track, and the catchy "Psychic Vampire", which seems to be inspired by The Band.

I would recommend Willy Porter for fans of David Mead, Glen Phillips, and Dave Matthews Band. "How To Rob A Bank" will rob your other CDs of their share of your listening time.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10

Willy Porter on MySpace. Official site.

Free MP3: Ken Block and Drew Copeland of Sister Hazel

Holy crap! Go get the solo releases from members of Sister Hazel for FREE at Amazon.com.

Ken Block "Drift" for free here! (review on BMF here)

Drew Copeland "No Regrets" for free here!

Review: Mandy Moore "Amanda Leigh"

I never really gave Mandy Moore a second thought - nice voice, but her discography generally is comprised of unremarkable, corporate teen pop. But then I heard that her new 2009 album, "Amanda Leigh" was making some noise in the power pop circuit, propelled by the fact that one of our modern day power pop heroes (Mike Viola) had a huge hand in writing, performing, and recording this record. With that backdrop, I had to tuck my tail between my legs and get my first Mandy Moore disc.

What a pleasant surprise. "Amanda Leigh" is a clear deviation from her past recordings, so long-time Moore fans should be forewarned: this is what REAL music sounds like! Moore has matured, and Mike Viola's stamp is on every track here - keeping the music organic, throwing out the dumb drum machines, and incorporating his staples of harpsichord and (sigh) toy piano. Moore and Viola were inspired by 70s singer/songwriters, especially Paul McCartney, and you'll definitely hear that influence among these tracks.

By far and away, the best track is "I Could Break Your Heart Any Day Of The Week", but I would cite "Love to Love Me Back" and "Nothing Everything" as additional standouts. Most of the songs are exceptionally well-crafted and pay homage to their 70s idols by incorporating plenty of memorable hooks and harmony. Unfortunately, the CD is pretty damn dull in the middle, but it starts and ends very well.

Moore has sold over 8 million albums worldwide and now I can say that I am not ashamed that I own one of them. "Amanda Leigh" is not likely to outsell her previous work, but I applaud the new artistic direction her music has taken and look forward to where she is going.

Check out "Amanda Leigh" if you enjoy Kelly Jones, Lisa Loeb, or Mike Viola.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 8, 9, 10

Mandy Moore on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "I Could Break Your Heart Any Day Of The Week".

Review: Boh Runga "Right Here"

The latest sensation from New Zealand has arrived, and she is now crafting and recording exquisite pop songs in Hollywood. "Right Here" is the solo debut from Boh Runga, lead singer and guitarist of Stellar, Sony's biggest selling kiwi band.

"Right Here" is extremely impressive - Runga's sweet, captivating voice is second only to the sweetness of the memorable melodies she composes. Her pop instincts are sharp and the rock edge shows itself in exactly the right measure. A good mix of ballads and more uptempo numbers keep "Right Here" moving steady, providing a very satisfying listening experience through all eleven tracks. She is liberal with her angelic backing vocals and has recruited some first rate musicians to flesh out her songs, which generally revolve around love, loss, and hope.

There are just too many great songs to pick from, but I will highlight the starting trio: "Starfish Sleeping", "Evelyn" (see below), and "Dark Horse". Also noteworthy is "Be Careful", which features the distinctive voice of Serj Tankian (System of A Down) - how they managed to hook up is probably an interesting story!

Boh Runga is for fans of Tasmin Archer, Nina Gordon, and K.T. Tunstall. A truly excellent debut.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 11

Boh Runga on MySpace. Official site.

Take note that there is currently a link to a free mp3 of "Evelyn" on her MySpace page.

Check out the video for the K.T. Tunstall-flavored "Evelyn":

New video from Adam Marsland!

"When I Lied To Everyone" -- the first video from the forthcoming (8/18/09) double CD GO WEST by ex-Cockeyed Ghost frontman Adam Marsland.

Review: Boom Crash Opera "Dancing In The Storm"

I thought I had seen the last of new releases by Boom Crash Opera, one of my favorite Aussie bands of all time. Over here in the States, BCO was tragically ignored for reasons I've never been able to resolve. At heart they are a straight-up melodic rock band, but their big and bold sound, rich with harmonies and orchestral stabs, gave them a unique sound.

Now they are back with "Dancing In The Storm", their first collection of acoustical renditions of thirteen of the best songs spanning their career. Most of the tracks are from the trio of their most extraordinary releases, including their 1987 self-titled debut, "These Here Are Crazy Times!" and 1993's "Fabulous Beast". I actually doubted how their big and bold rock songs would translate to the stripped down acoustic format, but that was foolish. These songs sound amazing like this and the vocals sound better than ever. Most of the songs are true to the original, with exception of "Talk About It", which has been dramatically reworked into a subdued and haunting piece.

Coming with a DVD of a 1993 MTV Unplugged (Australia) performance, this release is more than worth the money - whether you were a fan or not, I highly recommend you check this out.

Boom Crash Opera on MySpace.

Review: Daughtry "Leave This Town"

Chris Daughtry is now feeling the other side of the double-edge sword of having a phenomenally successful debut album. The former American Idol contestant was subject to one of the biggest injustices in the history of the show by being voted off far too early in the competition several years ago. Perhaps a blessing in disguise, he went on to make one of the biggest selling records in recent times, gracing radio with plenty of melodic hard rock goodness. He is his own hard act to follow.

To help with the sophomore effort, Daughtry has enlisted the songwriting talents of Nickelback's Chad Kroeger, Brian Howes, Mitch Allen, and more. The disc begins with the in your face guitars and the soaring, badass vocals we all expect from Daughtry. After this fierce reminder that he is still a force to be reckoned with, he glides right into the more radio-friendly "No Surprise", following this up with three more pop-based rockers, "Everytime You Turn Around" (a personal favorite), "Life After You", and "What I Meant To Say". After this, the songs are OK, rarely leaving the ballad or mid-tempo pace, and not matching the quality we've heard on the debut. The latter half of the CD is very ballad heavy and grows tiresome, not helped by duds like the country-flavored "Tennessee Line".

Another complaint is that the record seems to be on a mission to impress with the guitars and bombastic production rather than the voice. Daughtry has an amazing voice, but it is a shame to hear it take so few chances and to persistently get buried in the excessively loud guitars. Lyrically, we're also on ho-hum ground: unimaginative and straight-forward, but at least not silly.

The record is solid, but Daughtry is just running in place. In short, the title of the first single pretty much sums up the record as a whole: no surprise. I hope he comes back with a vengenace on the third release to give us the record we know he has the potential to deliver.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8

Daughtry: Official site.

Review: Jayhawks "Music From The North Country - The Jayhawks Anthology"

Formed in 1985 (!) The Jayhawks have been quietly and consistently releasing masterpiece after masterpiece, pioneering a musical path that blends alt-country and modern folk rock. At long last, the band has blessed the musical community with their first compilation of twenty of the shiniest gems from their treasure chest full of precious stones. All of the essentials are here, from the early tracks on 1989's "Blue Earth" to their last (and my personal favorite) 2003 record, "Rainy Day Music".

That would have been enough, but The Jayhawks have given fans so much more with this package. Included is a second CD and a separate DVD stuffed full of B-sides, rarities, demos, alternate versions, and other previously unreleased tracks. Even more fun, the linear notes include a brilliant piece on the history of the band by PD Larson, as well as detailed stories behind each of the tracks on CD2. If you pick your copy up at Best Buy, you get an additional bonus CD with yet five more tracks. In short, a lot of bang for your buck even if you already own their entire discography. It is an outstanding package for newcomers who need to become acquainted with one of the most influential bands of the genre.

No iPOD should be without all of the songs from CD1 in this comprehensive anthology. As for the other material, die-hard fans will probably love every note, but I find a lot of it to be hit and miss. As with many collections of "residual" material, finding some diamonds in the rough is like finding an attractive person left at last call. I've done the hard work for you...

iPOD-worthy:
CD1 - ALL TRACKS
CD2 - 4, 8, 12, 14, 16, 17
Bonus CD - 5

The Jayhawks official site.

Review: Rhett Miller "Rhett Miller"

Rhett Miller has returned at last with this self-titled follow-up to 2006's masterful "The Believer". During the break he spent some time with his old friends in the acclaimed alt-country band Old 97's to release the excellent "Blame It On Gravity". Frequent readers of this blog have probably noticed my fondness for both the Old 97's and Miller's solo work, and won't be surprised when I say his latest is unbelievable. Readers may be surprised that what I really mean is that "Rhett Miller" is unbelievably mediocre.

Obviously, Miller has been writing an awful lot and perhaps the well is running dry. Most of these songs are devoid of the sweet melodic hooks that make you keep coming back for more, and Miller's vocals come off like he isn't even convinced that these are strong songs. I have spun this record many times now, trying to find something to love, but I can only find things I like.

The element that has remained strong, maybe even gotten better, are his lyrics. "Haphazardly" for example, may be one of his most heart-wrenching yet. So don't get me wrong - this is a good record, but I don't agree with the many folks calling this his best release yet.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 7

Rhett Miller on MySpace. Official site.

Free mp3 - Sister Hazel

Sister Hazel has a new album coming out August 18.

In the meantime, SYNC is offering a free mp3 of an acoustic version of the new song and title track, "Release" - check it out.

Review: Works Progress Administration "Works Progress Administration"

Taking its name from President Roosevelt's 1939 New Deal initiative, Works Progress Administration (WPA) is a conglomeration of similarly minded musicians, crafting music that is meant to inspire and enlighten while it entertains. An impressive list of stellar talent has had a hand in steering the music that has found its way onto the self-titled debut record, due September 15. The founding members are listed as Glen Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket), Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek), and Luke Bulla (Jerry Douglas Band/Ricky Skaggs/Lyle Lovett), but substantial contributors include Sara Watkins (Nickel Creek), Benmont Tench (Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers), Greg Leisz (Joni Mitchell), Pete Thomas (Elvis Costello and the Imposters/Randy Newman), and Davey Faragher (Elvis Costello and the Imposters/Cracker). The founding fathers are regulars who interact at the legendary LA club, Largo, which is the very place Phillips recorded his 2003 live record.

As if that isn't enough name dropping, WPA partnered with Jim Scott to do the engineering; he's worked with the likes of Wilco and Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. So with all this talent on board, is this project right on track or a messy train wreck?

The twelve songs include some of the "best" of unrecorded material from various members, as well as some tunes specifically written for the project. Remarkably, the record has tremendous cohesion, despite the myriad of styles and vocal tones each team member brings to the table. I'll admit I was attracted to WPA largely because of Phillips, whose solo efforts and work with Toad remain some of my favorite recordings of all time. For those of you who share my taste, be warned that WPA is markedly country and Americana, with lots of fiddle and pedal steel. For those familiar with the 2004 Nickel Creek-Phillips collaboration, Mutual Admiration Society, I think you'd agree that WPA sounds like a logical extension of that effort. It isn't too Hee Haw (with exception of "Wedding Or A Wake"), but it is the most country-flavored release of Phillips' career.

Of course, this is not a Glen Phillips record - WPA is more like a modern day version of The Eagles, with Phillips, Bulla, and the Watkins siblings taking more or less equal turns on lead vocals, with plenty of masterful harmonies throughout (in keeping with the Eagles analogy, they even have a song called with "Already Gone" in the title!). As with most of the other work from these artists, the lyrics are almost always reflective and philosophical.

There is a good mix of slow versus mid-tempo songs, with the disc lending itself well as a soundtrack for watching sunsets on the back porch. Two of the most enjoyable and more upbeat numbers are right up front, "Always Have My Love" and "Good As Ever", and the haunting ballad "Rise Up" is deeply compelling (all sung by Phillips). Several of the other highlights from the record include the buoyant little ditties "Paralyzed" and "You're Already Gone". The album's closing piano ballad, "The Price", tenderly sung by Sara Watkins, is one of the finest songs I've heard this year; it was actually written by Tench more than two decades ago during his tenure with the Heartbreakers.

A more appropriate name for this project could not have been selected. No one is a hero in this outfit, and when egos are sacrificed for the betterment of the whole, you get a success story like the first record from WPA. While some of these tracks take two or three spins to appreciate, each listen brings a new reward. Today's music world needs a New Deal, and the biz could learn a great deal from the spirit driving WPA.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12

Take note that if you join the mailing list through their main web site, you can get a free mp3 of "Always Have My Love".

Works Progress Administration on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video detailing the story of WPA (the band, this is not a lesson in the Great Depression):
Introducing Works Progress Administration

Mellencamp Signed Guitar Contest

Live Daily have launched an exclusive John Mellencamp signed guitar contest. One grand prize winner will win a copy of the new live CD "Life Death Live And Freedom" along with a Fender Squire Telecaster guitar signed by John Mellencamp.

Don’t miss your chance to score the new release and a sweet piece of rock memorabilia.

One Grand Prize:
- Autographed Fender Squire Telecaster guitar arctic white
- Life Death Live and Freedom CD

Five Runner-up Prizes:
- Life Death Live and Freedom CD

Enter here

Review: Michael Gross and the Statuettes "Dust and Daylight" [EP]

From Salt Lake City we have Michael Gross and the Statuettes, who have just released their new EP, "Dust and Daylight". The music is right at the border of pop and indie rock, so fans of both camps should be able to find something on there that will tickle their fancy.

"Dust and Daylight" sounds distinctly 80s with all the muted electric guitar driving the rhythm and Gross' early Bono-esque vocals. Reminds me of a cross between The Refreshments and Cheap Trick. The production is a bit on the lo-fi side, but does not distract from the catchy riffs and the heartfelt vocal delivery. While no single song is over the top awesome, every single song is pretty damn cool. Some big time production and engineer could take the skeleton of these songs and catapult them to radio-friendly gems that everyone would want to blast out of their speakers.

His partners in crime, the Statuettes, and indeed a little 'stiff'. With some loosening up and additional creativity, the tunes might sound more compelling on each listen rather than tired. Still, "Dust and Daylight" is a solid debut that has a retro rock charm and overall fun vibe - very cool for summer! "I've Been Wrong Before" is the clear outlier here, but "Novocaine" and "You Can't Get What You Want" are becoming more enjoyable with each spin.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 5

Michael Gross and the Statuettes on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Light In August "Places"

Light in August is an indie quartet from Ann Arbor, Michigan that has been honing their craft since 2007. Being classically trained, they have a rather sophisticated and eclectic edge to their brand of pop rock, which could be classified as "prog folk". Alex Wand's songwriting and vocals have parallels to Cat Stevens; Alex also plays the guitar, sitar, and flute. "Places" has a bit of a coffeehouse feel to it, but on occasion you'll hear some smattering of distortion to disturb the rather tranquil nature of most of the tunes.

Light In August is not love at first sight for me; I'm not really finding too many reasons to play these songs again anytime soon. Not too many hooks, the voice is so-so, and I am not a big fan of the flute. Like Joe Christmas in the Faulkner novel, the music of Light In August is mysteriously complex; one minute you like it, the next you may not, but the one certainty is that it is engaging. I'd recommend this for fans of Frente!, Nick Drake, or Jethro Tull.

Light In August on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Scott Warren "Quick Fix Bandage"

Those of you familiar with indie rock band Signal Hill Transmission (reviewed here) may already know Scott Warren, whose first solo effort "Quick Fix Bandage" drops on July 28. "Quick Fix Bandage" is described by the artist as a "collection of subtle yet powerful reflections on loves lost and found and the crossed wires one encounters along the way." Regarding his musical style, Warren reveals, "I'm influenced by songwriters like Bob Dylan and Ray Davies, but at the same time I'm inspired by things happening here and now".

A diverse list of talent has contributed to the record, including Brian Young, (Fountains of Wayne, The Posies), Tommy Rickard (Michelle Shocked, Linda Perry), Taras Prodaniuk (Lucinda Williams, Richard Thompson), and many more. The result is a wonderfully cohesive record grounded in roots-based rock. But what really separates "Quick Fix Bandage" from the pack? Warren's pop instincts combined with the multiple layers of musical complexity provide a record that gets more enjoyable with every spin.

There is just enough country twang augmenting these acoustic-driven songs to provide a sorrowful feel when appropriate, but never enough to make you think this is a country record. Warren's lyrics are poetic, and his voice has a gentle urgency about it - soothing, but strong at the same time. The music on "Quick Fix Bandage" is true to the record's name - perfect for healing, introspection, or meditation during the sinking of the sun. Interspersed with harmonica, pedal steel, organ, and mandolin, each song sounds organic yet different from the last.

The most notable tracks include "Before You Say Goodbye", "I Got Your Back", and "Speed of Sound", the latter of which is my favorite. And you won't want to miss what Warren has done with America's classic, "Sister Golden Hair". Take note, you fans of Rhett Miller, Todd Herfindal, and Matt Nathanson.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11

Scott Warren on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Colin Healy and the Jetskis "...Or Just Don't Go" [EP]

If someone came up to you and said that a band won the Skittles "Down To The Core" video contest on Buzznet, would you be eager to hear their music? Taste the rainbow, anyone? Well here we have the winners, Colin Healy and the Jetskis, who just released their new 5-track EP, "...Or Just Don't Go".

Colin Healy and the Jetskis do kind of remind me of Skittles - crunchy outer shell surrounding a sweet and sour softspot. Pretty flavorful, but you only want to eat a handful and not the whole bag. The EP comes off like an innocent ode to the bittersweet roller coaster of high school romance. Youngsters are going to relate to the lyrical content with much greater enthusiasm than others, and probably mind less that Colin Healy and the Jetskis are just treading water.

The music is categorized as youth pop with an indie edge...there is some truth to this and they align very well with bands like Dashboard Confessional (largely due to strong similarities in Healy's vocal tone and inflections) and recently reviewed All Time Low (click here). They've even shared a stage with the latter.

Highlights include the title track and "The One", but the rest just kind of get lost in the mix. The other songs aren't bad by any means, but they are not screaming out to be replayed anytime soon. Still, I think it is a pretty solid debut for their age and it will be interesting to see and hear how Colin and the guys evolve. The hooks need to be sharper, the harmonies more creative, and the lyrics more original.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2

Colin Healy and the Jetskis on MySpace. Get it.

Review: All Time Low "Nothing Personal"

All Time Low is one of the many "pop punk" bands struggling to stand out in the crowd. Their 2007 major label debut, "So Wrong, It's Right", earned some good press but really didn't increase their visibility too much. The band is out to change that with this year's follow-up, "Nothing Personal".

"Nothing Personal" pretty much picks up where "So Wrong, It's Right" left off. We have plenty of catchy, crunchy guitar riffs to complement the adolescent lyrical themes. While the lyrical content centers on the issues of their targeted demographic, there are some witty moments that indicate some actual thought went into writing them. Generally, the vocals stick to the comfort zone of pop punk - borderline whiny, but much more tolerable than other bands of this ilk. Lead vocalist/guitarist Alex Gaskarth shows he has more vocal dexterity on the album's decent closing ballad, "Therapy".

The album leads off with the single "Weightless" (video below), which I find to be a puzzling choice as it is a mediocre track. Much stronger are the follow up tunes "Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't)" and "Lost In Stereo". The obligatory pop punk power ballad, "Sick Little Games", is another highlight. A lot of devoted fans are knocking the overly slick production (some of which is compliments of Butch Walker) - I don't mind this so much, but I did experience a wave of nausea at a couple of the electronica/house-rock fusions such as "Walls" and "Too Much". The genres are like oil and water and simply are not meant to be mixed!

Overall, there is marginal maturity with this new release, but I get the distinct feeling that maturity is not necessarily what their fans want at this point. All Time Low is all about fun and their brand of music delivers in that category. The problem, however, is that without crossing over to a wider audience, I don't see how they are going to be more than a blip on the radar.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 6, 12

All Time Low should please fans of New Found Glory, Simple Plan, and Sum 41.

All Time Low on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Weightless":

All Time Low |MTV Music

Is the album dead?

I largely agree with this, but have mixed feelings about it. As a child of the decades when albums were still popular, it pains me to see the format going to the grave. Then again, I always hated album filler!

"Doug Pullen of ElPasoTimes.com recently conducted an interview with The Cult frontman Ian Astbury. A few excerpts from the chat follow. On the current state of rock music: "Rock 'n' roll now is pretty much in the garbage. It's barely alive. Everybody has taken from it. Nobody has given back. There are a very few who have given back. It's a very selfish occupation. A lot of people never really returned. That's why we have a lot of pastiche and we have a lot of artists who are never involved beyond their sophomore albums. It's a travesty."
"There will be no new album. I don't think we'll ever see a Cult album. Albums are dead. The format is dead. iTunes destroyed albums. The whole idea of an album. Albums were established in the '70s and '80s and into the '90s, but they've been dead for a long time. Nobody buys albums. It's been proven. It's an arcane format, as much as the 78 rpm or writing sheet music for an orchestra. It's an old form and, for me, it's much more about if we have a great song we really believe in, then we'll record it and release it."

"For me, the idea of making albums is dead. The idea of spending a year and a half in the studio arguing over agendas and trying to fit into a format that's settled before we started the creative process (is unappealing)."

Story.

Review: Dune Tran "Heart Anchors"

Originally from an igloo in Edmonton, Canada, singer/songstress Dune Tran has been basking in the warmth of the San Francisco music scene since 2001. Similar to her change in milieu, the songs on her self-released debut, "Heart Anchors", transition between the chilly and sunny sides of indie pop. The songs of Dune Tran are largely rooted in sultry and melancholy piano melodies, but her pop sensibilities shine through sunlight breaking through an overcast sky. The combination provides a haunting, yet comforting, atmosphere as the songs glide by.

Tran's voice is icy smooth, with a tone perfect for chilling out to. Sometimes, however, I feel it is a bit too laid back - a few of her tunes could be taken to the next level with some added expression. If she could leave her vocal comfort zone - expand her range, take some chances, sustain some notes - it would serve her songs well.

The real standout is the instantly likable midtempo gem, "Kites". But some other highly enjoyable tunes on this strong debut include the sublime ballad "Silence", "Daydreams", and "Trust Me". Anchors away if you enjoy Dido, Tori Amos, or Aimee Mann.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 6

Dune Tran on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Sunstorm "House of Dreams"

Where would AOR be if it weren't for the Frontiers label? They released a real winner this year with "House of Dreams", the latest from the Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow, Deep Purple, TNT, etc) outfit called Sunstorm. After all these years, JLT still never ceases to please and is sounding incredible. Backed by some of the heaviest hitters in the genre, "House of Dreams" is an AOR fan's dream. Included in this ensemble is legendary Jim Peterik, who probably even takes his remarkably prolific songwriting pen into the john with him. He contributes on "Say You Will", "Gutters Of Gold", and "Tears On The Pages". Another songwriting master with strong melodic hard rock roots, Desmond Child, co-wrote the closing track "Walk On". The CD boasts outstanding musicianship (including members of Pink Cream 69), top of the line production, and a bold attitude to stick to a classic AOR sound rather than cater to today's trends (in other words, plenty of harmonic guitars, big drums, and keyboards). Helping the record to sound even more anachronistic: many of these songs are revamped versions from ones written years ago.

I like the fact that there are a decent number of uptempo rockers here, but it would not be AOR without your power ballads, so there are a few of these too. The CD is consistently good and plays well from start to finish. Standout tracks include "Divided", "I Found Love", "Forever Now" and the title track.

Sunstorm is highly recommended for fans of Jimi Jamison, Journey, Europe, or Hardline. Undoubtedly one of the best melodic rock releases of 2009, one that makes you think it is 1990 all over again.

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

Joe Lynn Turner on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Scott Brookman "A Song For Me, A Song For You"

Scott Brookman specializes in "highly melodic pop music in the grand tradition of 60's and 70's that mixes wry humor and imagination." On his latest, "A Song For Me, A Song For You", you'll find plenty of classic pop in the style of Brian Wilson and Burt Bacharach, with several bossa nova-based tunes thrown in for good measure. There is a little bit of everything here - bouncy piano, playful acoustic guitar, and of course, xylophones, kazoos, and sleigh bells. With this diverse assortment of ingredients, Brookman rolls up his sleeves and starts experimenting in the kitchen.

Now as I listen to this record, I am not sure if I am laughing WITH Brookman or laughing AT him. But maybe the point is that I am laughing, and I should tip my hat to him for making me smile. The songs are gay and the humor is dry, so overall the CD sounds like music intended for children rather than adults, despite the adult-oriented lyrics. Perhaps this one is more for the (very) young at heart, or adults who are still fascinated by Sesame Street and Play-Doh (not that there's anything wrong with that!). Brookman's voice is velvet smooth and harmless, perfect for the sweet pop confections he bakes.

If you're a fan of light-hearted pop in the neighborhood of The Simple Carnival (reviewed here) or Mitch Friedman (reviewed here), you are likely to find a song or two for you on Brookman's latest. I'm not a big fan of this stuff, but even I could find one song for me: "The First Assault Upon My Day".

iPOD-worthy: 3

Scott Brookman on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Check out the video for "Seabird":

Rare CD: Price Sulton "Lights On"

"Price Sulton - Lights On JAPAN CD rare AOR

Front cover is original. Liner notes is copied.

Year: 1986
Label: CBS/ Sony (Japan)
Catalog Number: 32DP 586

Tracks
1. Shotgun Shy
2. No T.V.No phone
3. Lights On
4. Take Me Away
5. Shana
6. Something's Gonna Happen
7. Stories
8. Reckless And Wild
9. Heaven's Girl
10. Oh No"

Sold for $152.50 on ebay (27 bids).

Review: Alan Semerdjian "The Big Beauty"

"The Big Beauty" is the latest offering from New York-based indie singer/songwriter Alan Semerdjian. Taking great pride in his city, Semerdjian likens his musical style to NYC - "a bit rough around the edges, strangely poetic, and always in pursuit of what's real." Semerdjian has played over 900 shows in the last dozen years or so, placed his music in tv and film, and charted on CMJ. Will "The Big Beauty" be his big break or reveal itself to be a beast?

Semerdjian has a capable voice, but it sounds a bit understated and lost in many of the more richly textured songs accentuated with viola, cello, flute, sax, accordion, or brass. One of Semerdjian's strong suits is his lyrics, which are almost always interesting, clever, and thought-provoking. The musicianship is there, the lyrics are there, and the voice is there...but at the end of day the songs just aren't very catchy or memorable. Things get off to a promising start with the comparatively upbeat "Your Love" and "I Can't Tell You How", but then the record quickly nose dives into snoozy territory that none of the expertly executed instrumentation, try as it might, can make interesting.

I'd recommend Semerdjian for fans of Matthew Barber, Counting Crows, The Wallflowers, and Ray LaMontagne. If you need a contemplative record that is slow and haunting, with diverse instrumentation that is masterfully played, then audition Alan Semerdjian's "The Big Beauty".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2

Alan Semerdjian on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Check out the video for "Can't Wait":

Review: Golden Bloom "Fan The Flames"

Golden Bloom is the brainchild of singer/songwriter Shawn Fogel, an unusually gifted artist ready to blossom in the pop rock garden. "Fan The Flames" is a remarkably good full-length debut from start to finish.

"Fan The Flames" is half sunny and half cloudy, fitting to the lyrical content, which drifts between half-full and half-empty perspectives that address modern societal concerns. Armed with humility and wit, Fogel tackles the issues in an entertaining fashion, while leaving a lasting impression with his memorable melodies. The upbeat tracks are particularly strong, especially the emphasis track "Doomsday Devices", which just screams 'hit single'. However, my mind wandered during some of his ballads, which can get a little monotonous. Notable exceptions to this include the gorgeous "She Leaves Me Poetry" and the stunning "Theme for an Adventure at Sea". Fogel almost sounds like Chris Martin (Coldplay) on this subtle, quiet acoustic track and suddenly - land ho! - the band kicks in to create an amazing and rousing finish.

On most of the other tracks, Fogel has an Evan Dando (Lemonheads) quality to his voice that fits comfortably into his brand of pop rock, which often inches into the alt-country territory of Wilco. In addition to the aforementioned tracks, "E.H.M." and "Dead Petals", seemingly written to appeal directly to fans of Guster, are also highlights on this CD. And don't miss the sixty second bonus track written just for disgraced Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich.

Back at the start of the year, SPIN Magazine designated Golden Bloom as one of "8 undiscovered bands worth a listen”. With "Fan the Flames" arriving this August, you'll have the chance to judge for yourself - and I highly recommend you do. With its pop-centric melodies and Fogel's easy on the ear voice, Golden Bloom is poised to end the summer on a high note.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 6, 9

Golden Bloom on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Bads "So Alive"

The Bads could be considered New Zealand's organic counterpart to Roxette. The sharing of vocals between Dianne Swann and Brett Adams, along with their spot on harmonies and pop instincts, make them a fine addition to the string of male-female music duos. Their second album "So Alive" was released back in April, following up the 2005 critically acclaimed debut "Earth from Space".

The music of The Bads has a very earthy quality to it, but their alt-country songs are coated with a veneer of pop sensibility, sparkling with grade A production and flawless harmonies. Brett Adams has a voice well suited for straight-up pop rock, which balances nicely with the graceful tenderness in Swann's vocal performances. Swann possesses the sweet, warm tone of Olivia Newton-John, but can deliver it with edginess of Christina Amphlett (DiVinyls) when needed. You will ache with her as she croons through "Baby Come Home" and tap your foot along as she glides through the mid-tempo treat "First Night". However, my favorite track happens to feature Adams; "Drop in the Ocean" is an instantly memorable, banjo-infused delight that will please country and rock fans alike. "Gracious" gives us the best of both of their voices, which complement one another better than anything this side of Lindsay Buckingham and Stevie Nicks.

The Bads are nothing but good - check them out today. In the words of Swann, "So Alive" is for "rockin poppin altin country" music fans.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 4, 5, 8

The Bads on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Sorry "RSVP" [EP]

Sorry is a 3-piece band from Auburn, WA that wants the world to RSVP to their indie powerpop party. The "RSVP" EP contains seven songs that introduce you to the band's sound, which features frequent harmony vocals layered atop melodic guitar riffs. Sorry is making some significant strides this year, including an invite to play International Pop Overthrow 2009 and earning several positive reviews on the powerpop circuit.

Two-thirds of Sorry consist of brothers Alan and Stephen Brozovich, who sound as pleasant as Tim and Neil Finn when in harmony. With all the harmonies, it is easy to draw comparisons to The Posies, but I am also hearing a lot of early Toad the Wet Sprocket (Bread and Circus, Pale) as well as The Connells. I'm actually enjoying the non-emphasis tracks the most, especially the catchy "Nuevo Laredo" and the strikingly beautiful ballad "Set Sail", which incidentally has been picked up by Three Imaginary Girls podcast.

Sorry claims that their music is "indie rock nice enough to take home to mom". While that may be true, I'm not certain your mom, or anyone else in the house for that matter, is going to get too riled up about Sorry. The production is pretty lo-fi, most songs are forgettable, and the vocals, despite the harmonies, just don't do that much for me. But check them out for yourself if you enjoy any of the aforementioned bands - you might not be sorry.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4

Sorry : Official site. Get it.

Review: John Mellencamp "Life, Death, Live And Freedom"

About a year ago, we wrote a rather tepid review covering the latest from pop folk rocker John Mellencamp, entitled "Life Death Love and Freedom" (click here to refresh your memory). Mellencamp is back already with a new release, but not new material. As the name obviously implies, "Life, Death, LIVE And Freedom" simply features live versions of eight of the tunes we've experienced on "Life Death Love and Freedom". The big question that comes to mind of course is WHY?

The answer is that a live performance usually breathes new life into songs. "Life Death Love and Freedom" was an unmelodious and dark reflection on the topics in its title, and it made for a pretty uneasy and dull studio recording. However, "Life, Death, LIVE And Freedom" gives Mellencamp the opportunity to redeem himself on some of the tracks and he seizes this opportunity. Mellencamp remains an outstanding live performer and he takes no prisoners on these gritty tracks, catapulting some of these tunes to a whole new level. In most cases, he is like a doctor injecting a powerful shot of medicine into a comatose song, bringing it back to the land of the living with a vengeance. Case in point are the tracks, "If I Die Sudden" and "Jena" - I was less than thrilled with the studio originals, but the live versions are fantastic. In contrast, some of the tracks, including "My Sweet Love", sound much better on the studio release than this live release to me. Finally, there are some that sound good whether recorded live or in the studio (the excellent "Longest Days").

I wish they would have made this a companion piece that was included in the original release rather than a stand alone product; I can't imagine anyone but the most devoted fan purchasing this CD, and it is going to do next to nothing to help Mellencamp climb the charts once again. However, it is an important artistic piece from an enduring legend in rock music who is not afraid to explore the more disquieting aspects of life, in which pop music just isn't an appropriate backdrop.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 7

John Mellencamp on MySpace. Official site.

Here’s an mp3 cleared for giveaway: If I Die Sudden (Live radio edit)

R.I.P. Michael Jackson

Story.

Review: Tijuana Hercules "The Almanack of Bad Luck"

"The Almanack of Bad Luck" is the latest offering from Tijuana Hercules...a record that "makes the Book of Job look like a cakewalk". Tijuana Hercules goes on to describe itself as "The greazy dark, bitter, & nasty parts of American music" - I can't say it any better than that.

The vocals make modern day Bob Dylan sound like Josh Groban. The throaty, weathered voice beats you in the face like a blast of bad breath - making you feel the pain in this guy - if there is one thing that Tijuana Hercules is, it is genuine. It is hard to listen to Bruce Springsteen complain now about how hard life is, but when Tijuana Hercules sings, you really believe it.

The music runs the gamut and is probably nothing like what you've heard before. It is sometimes festive with Mexican-influenced brass, but then suddenly turns into a murky swamp. I'd describe it as Los Lonely Boys gone loco. If you've never heard a diddley bow, jew's harp, or electric washboard, "The Almanack of Bad Luck" gives you the chance!

Much like life, "The Almanack of Bad Luck" is full of parties and funerals. The music is not the usual featured here on BMF, but if you are yearning for something different and don't mind it being rough around the edges, this one is for you.

Tijuana Hercules on MySpace.

Check out the video for "Down in the Bottom Lines":
Tijuana Hercules - Down In the Bottom Lines

Review: The New Up "Better Off" [EP]

San Francisco alt rock outfit The New Up release the "Better Off" EP on August 18, 2009. It is the second in a trilogy of EPs - their first, "Broken Machine", charted on the CMJ Top 200 in 2008. The trilogy is an analysis of society - "Better Off" is a step towards resolving the conflicts in society that were first raised on "Broken Machine".

Driven by the post-punk vocals of ES Pitcher and the heavy dark riffs of guitarist Noah Reid, The New Up sounds a lot like the grunge version of Blondie. Intelligent lyrics, well-placed harmonies and backing vocals, and the occasional flute combine to keep things interesting.

The group is not a one-trick grunge pony, however, as evidenced by the great dance rock beat of "Bitch". On this track, comparisons to a feminine The Killers are likely, which is not too surprising given that they recorded with Jaimeson Durr, who has worked with The Killers and Franz Ferdinand. Another highlight is "Dear Life", with its blasting guitars and catchy vocal line demanding repeated listens.

The final EP installment is due next spring and "will complete the transformation by exploring the feeling of finding hope after experiencing the pain of having lost things that seem necessary, but that ultimately are holding us back." This will build off the themes addressed in "Dear Life" and promises to be another audio treat.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3

The New Up on MySpace. Official site.

News: New Bleu due! - Pre-order autographed copy!

The long-awaited new album from powerpop master Bleu will finally arrive on July 14 - it is called "A Watched Pot". 12 brand spanking new tracks from one of the greatest forces in the genre today. I've had the opportunity to preview the tracks and what I am hearing so far is OUTSTANDING. Some of the highlights will include "Save Me", "Come 'N Go", and "There's No Such Thing As Love". My initial impression is that this will easily be one of the big powerpop blockbusters of the year...dare I say bordering on instant classic? "A Watched Pot" generally sounds more reflective and slower than previous work, but still laden with sticky hooks and unshakable melodies. A full review will follow in the near future! In the meantime, I suggest you check out some of the new material for yourself at the links below.

There is also a pre-order promotion up at newburycomics.com where you can pre-order Bleu's "A Watched Pot" for $9.99 and also get an autographed CD booklet. Click here for the exciting details.

Bleu on MySpace. Official site. At Ning.

Review: The Dimes "New England" [EP]

Who would have thought that you could merge history lessons with music and still be entertaining? Alt-country and indie pop act The Dimes is poised to undertake such a project on their forthcoming new release (due August, 2009). In the meantime, I've been lucky enough to receive this "sampler" EP to whet the appetite.

The boys in The Dimes hail from Portland, Oregon and I have little doubt that the climate there has influenced their musical style. The generally slow and steady pace of their tunes seems to match the rhythm of rain, and the lyrical content is more reflective than most. I cannot think of too many people whose songs were inspired by historical happenings in colonial Boston, so strike up another A+ for creativity and innovation. Add in earnest vocals, masterful harmonies, mandolins, and an occasional banjo or accordion, and you have a refreshing 'indie folk rock' sound that combines the best of The Jayhawks with The Decemberists.

The catchiest and most instantly gratifying track is "Clara", but one of the more intriguing tracks on this gem of an EP is their re-interpretation of the John Lennon hit, "Watching the Wheels". Their take on this song is haunting and somber, which some may argue is even closer to the lyrical intent.

I don't want to rush the summer, but one great thing about the arrival of August will be listening to the new full-length release from The Dimes.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 4

The Dimes on MySpace. Official site. Note that you can download demos of the new tracks for the upcoming CD for free at their web site.

Review: Clifton Williams and the Blue James Band "Will"

"Will", the latest CD from Clifton Williams and the Blue James Band, was released late in 2008. Clifton Williams is a talented songwriter who polished his craft as a graduate student in music composition. He is supported by some extraordinary bandmates; collectively, their is a boatload of talent in this assembly of fine players.

The songs on "Will" are sophisticated and intricate, layering multiple strata of musical styles and instrumentation (ranging from rock to reggae, folk to funk), yet they never sound less than organic. The roots-rock feel and positivity in the lyrics will delight fans of this genre, and fans of Paul Simon and Sting may hear their influences in the songwriting. For pop rockers who enjoy the quick-fix hook, I'm afraid you probably won't find too much that is accessible here. However, the tracks I will highlight should please fans of all walks of music: "You Should Know", "Crossroads", and "Don't Waste the Days". For me, "Will" makes for a perfect laid-back Sunday morning treat.

I recommend Clifton Williams and the Blue James Band for fans of the Dave Matthews Band, Pat McGee, and Edwin McCain.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 6, 7

Clifton Williams and the Blue James Band: MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video for "Believe":

Rare CD: Stephen Stills - "Stills Alone"

Track listing
1. Isn't It So
2. Everybody's Talkin'
3. Just Isn't Like You
4. In My Life
5. Ballad of Hollis Brown
6. Singin' Call
7. Right Girl, The
8. Blind Fiddler Memory
9. Amazonia
10. Treetop Flyer

Sold for $36.00 on ebay (17 bids). $43.33 at Amazon.com - check now.

Rare CD: E.G. Daily "Wild Child"

"Hi! You are bidding on a RARE CD from Pop/AOR artist E.G. Daily-"Wild Child" from 1985 on the "A&M" Records label (Germany), original CD, inserts, etc.

Tracklist...
1. IS ANYBODY HOME
2. LITTLE TOY
3. LOVE IN THE SHADOWS
4. JUST FOR YOU
5. HEY THERE ROCKY
6. SAY IT, SAY IT
7. WILD CHILD
8. DON'T LET THEM TAKE THE CHILD AWAY
9. WAITING
10. SUNSET PEOPLE

CD is in near mint condition / inserts in near mint condition!
Great CD for fans of 1980´s Hard Rock/AOR! Bidding starts at $14.99"

Sold for $53.80 on ebay (11 bids)

Rare CD: Femme Fatale "Femme Fatale"

"Femme Fatale : Femme Fatale. Rare Melodicrock /AOR CD. (MCA 255 974-2). CD Made In: Germany. CD Contains 10 Fantastic Melodicrock/AOR Tracks. Produced By: Tom Werman, David Cole & Jim Faraci. Musicians On The CD: Bill D´Angelo (Guitars), Lorraine Lewis (Vocals) + More. CD & Booklet In Good Condition. A Must Have For Hardrock / AOR Lovers !!!! Original CD"

Sold for $70 on ebay (10 bids). ??? Going for just $27.50 at Amazon. Check now.

Rare CD: Danny Elfman "Midnight Run" (Soundtrack)

Original Soundtrack From The Classic Action Film with Robert De Niro "MIDNIGHT RUN""
(1988). Composed by Danny Elfman.

Sold for $76.00 on ebay (12 bids)

Used version going for $49.99 at Amazon. Check now.

Rare CD: The Raspberries "Greatest Hits" (BMG with bonus tracks)

"The Raspberries Greatest Hits Ultra RARE OOP BMG Record Club Pressing with 4 bonus demo tracks! Excellent Condition"

Sold for $77.09 on ebay (12 bids)

Rare CD: Radiohead "BONES.96" (Belgian)

RADIOHEAD
CD PROMO BELGIAN SINGLE
BONES
MADE IN HOLLAND
BONES.96

Track listing:
BONES 3.03
BLACK STAR 4.03

More info here.

Sold on ebay for $203.50 (8 bids)

Rare CD: Roxxi "Drive It To Ya Hard"

I don't know much about this one, the band's release from 1963. Here are details I found at Amazon:
Audio CD (July 1, 1991)
Original Release Date: 1963
Number of Discs: 1
Label: Dead Line

Sold on ebay for $280.

Review: Green Day "21st Century Breakdown"

I've never disliked Green Day, but I can't say that I've been an avid fan, especially after the lackluster follow-ups to 1994's smash hit "Dookie". That began to change in 2004 with the release of their excellent "comeback" concept album "American Idiot". Now, 5 years later, "21st Century Breakdown" makes me want to buy a Green Day T-shirt to wear with pride.

"American Idiot" was a huge success at the critic and commercial level - these kinds of records, appearing after a decade of being together, create a fear in the fanbase that the last hurrah has been achieved...how in the world are they going to possibly top "American Idiot"? I must admit I had the same concern myself. With each passing year of nothing new from Billie Joe and the gang, I grew closer to writing off "American Idiot" as a fluke and concluding that the band had nothing more to say.

This could not have been more wrong. "21st Century Breakdown" is stupendous. I know it disturbs many of the old school Green Day fans, but the band's new musical direction (a logical extension of where they were headed with "American Idiot") takes their game to the next level. I believe this record will cement Green Day as a force to be reckoned with in the rock world.

Not only is the music on "21st Century Breakdown" some of the most accessible and melodic of their career, but the layers of lyrical depth have me believing that Green Day could be this generation's U2. The record is another concept album of sorts, tracing the history of a young couple (Christian and Gloria) through the first decade of the new millennium.

Produced by Butch Vig along with the band, and mixed by Chris Lord-Alge, "21st Century Breakdown" is a sonic masterpiece. The band continues to experiment by adding piano and strings to their crunchy and punchy guitars, and their harmony vocals have never been more abundant and effective. There are almost too many good songs to pick favorites, but I'll go with "Viva La Gloria", "21 Guns", "Before the Lobotomy", and the title track. "Before the Lobotomy" is particularly cool because it starts out as an acoustic ballad that is 'covered' by the more traditional sounding Green Day towards the end of the song.

Absolutely terrific record. Don't let the current single "Know Your Enemy" fool you - it is one of the more simplistic and banal tracks. I am puzzled why it was selected as a single when so many of the other songs are far superior.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18

Green Day on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for the single "Know Your Enemy":
Know Your Enemy

Review: Ace Noface "Toxic Charm"

A lot of people are under the impression that piano-based music just can't rock...Ace Noface proves just how false this assertion can be. His excellent new release, "Toxic Charm", pounds its way into your head with its infectious melodies and lyrical urgency. No doubt this urgency stems from the fact that Ace Noface has tragically been diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Musically, we're dealing with some very catchy stuff - the vocals have a clear, warm tone that sound like a cross between Jason Falkner and Ben Folds, and the harmony vocals are plentiful and well placed. But beyond the engaging melodies are some of the most thought-provoking lyrics in music today. Ace Noface is unafraid to explore the themes that most musicians wouldn't dare touch, from religion to the cowardliness of bigotry, to deep contemplations on the meaning of it all. Much like Freddie Mercury on Queen's masterful "Innuendo", Ace Noface boldly shares his most intimate thoughts knowing that the hands of fate are tightening up around his throat. Those of us who take our health for granted can all learn a lesson hearing what someone in this unique position has to say. He's also a great storyteller, getting into the head of the notorious Toronto bicycle thief Igor Kenk on "2000 Bicycles".

Amazingly, Ace Noface crafted "Toxic Charm" literally note by note, as it was written with just one finger due to his disability. This is completely undetectable after hearing the layers upon layers of musical complexity, which effortlessly weave standard pop progressions with threads of jazz and prog rock. Highlights include "Regret", "Whiskey Bottle", and "Gotta".

Pick up this CD from Ace Noface if you are a fan of Ben Folds, Keane, Mêlée, or Five for Fighting. "Toxic Charm" is easily one of the best piano-driven rock CDs of the year so far, musically and lyrically.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9

Ace Noface on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Donate to the ALS Association.

Review: Chickenfoot "Chickenfoot"

It is refreshing to see a classic hard rock act get the A-list treatment in terms of promotion. I seem to find signs of Chickenfoot everywhere - even on the (gasp) radio! For those of you who have recently been rescued from a desert island, Chickenfoot is rock's latest supergroup comprised of one half Van Hagar (Sammy Hagar and Mike Anthony), guitar wizard Joe Satriani, and Red Hot Chili Pepper drummer Chad Smith.

The pros: The chemistry between these guys is fantastic and their individual talents gel well to produce a modern rock feel - the record sounds great. Sammy's vocals are still incredible after all these years of tequila-drenched wailing and to say that Satriani is amazing with the guitar is a vast understatement. The packing is pretty cool, too, with the heat-activated digipak whose artwork shows up after warming up.

The cons (you know there have to be significant cons when one of the pros commends the packaging!): The biggest drawback is that the songs are mediocre at best, lacking the meaty hooks and sing-a-long choruses that make arena rock songs memorable. There isn't enough of the trademark Hagar and Anthony harmony vocals, which may have been avoided as a conscious effort not to sound too much like Van Hagar. Finally, Sammy seems to be on a 'man on a mission' with his lyrics to prove that older does not mean wiser (with rare exception).

Like the band's ridiculous name, the Chickenfoot CD is attention getting, but leaves you scratching your head and asking, "What? This is the best they could do?" For me, Chickenfoot is one of this year's biggest musical disappointments - it is a clucking bore! There is an abundance of talent in this coop spinning out of control - if it can be centered to revolve around strong melodious hooks, they will truly earn the title "superGROUP".

iPOD-worthy: 5, 8, 9

Chickenfoot on MySpace. Official site.

Get the Chickenfoot mp3 album for only $3.99 at Amazon.

Review: Tieweb "Indier Than Thou"

Virginia-based Tieweb, featuring Justin Fazzari on vocals & guitar, Chris Aylward on bass & vox, Eric Bayles on lead guitar, and Steve Quesenberry on drums, claims to be putting the "die" in indie rock. They refer to themselves as the "most quirky band on the planet"; with influences ranging from Herbie Hancock to Phish to The Pixies, I think they are deserving of that title. Their latest effort, "Indier Than Thou", recorded by Washington Area Music Association (WAMA) award-winning producer Marco Delmar, is a sonic treat that defies genre classification.

Tieweb hastens to engage the listener right away with the rousing rocker, "Way Out", and follows it up with the vastly different but equally likable track called "Fade". I found my mind wandering during the subsequent tunes, but the upbeat acoustic rocker "Up and Down" captured my attention once again. They saved my favorite track for last...another peppy acoustic-driven gem called "Baby Don't Cry". Definitely the most accessible and catchy track on "Indier Than Thou", "Baby Don't Cry" is a perfect summer charmer. Overall, Tieweb is refreshing and innovative indie pop, and they weave some tangled, albeit interesting melodies along the way.

The CD art claims to make you "hipper" (more hip?) by listening to this music - I must admit that I do indeed feel cooler driving down the road with Tieweb blasting out of the speakers. "Indier Than Thou" is for fans of Frank Black/Pixies, Spoon, and Thee Makeout Party.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 6, 10

Tieweb on MySpace. Official site.