Review: Jacob's Ladder "Ours For The Taking" [EP]

It is hard to write a review for the South Florida band called Jacob's Ladder without hearing Huey Lewis sing the famous Bruce Hornsby tune! But Jacob's Ladder - the band - sound nothing like these big cheeses from the 80s. Jacob's Ladder is firmly planted in the soil of modern rock, in the same garden reaped by Fall Out Boy and Panic at the Disco.

Jacob's Ladder is a young trio of talented musicians (Sammy Gonzalez - bass, vocals; Oren Maisner - guitar, vocals; Brian Hernandez - drums) and their new EP was produced by Cyrus Bolooki Of New Found Glory. The band polishes their chops by touring relentlessly (over 400 shows!) and they've racked up some pretty notable achievements so far, including sales of over 4000 records between 2007-2009 and sponsorships from Ernie Ball and Gibson.

For this early in their career, Jacob's Ladder is off to an admirable start; there are good dynamics in the music, considerable harmonies, and a few memorable moments in emphasis tracks such as "Home Alone Tonight", "Not Your Enemy", and "Birds Of A Feather". The band needs to focus a bit more on developing a good strong hook or a lot of people ain't going to bite. The "Ours For The Taking" EP demonstrates some potential for this trio to rise above the crowd, but they still have a few more rungs to climb in order to reach the top.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 5, 6

Jacob's Ladder on MySpace.

Review: Will Hoge "The Wreckage"

Dare I say it, but the past couple of records from Will Hoge have been disappointments for me - yes, they had their moments - but overall I found the albums cumbersome. The songs were still ripe with passion, but lacked the charm and energy - and catchy melodies - that made his first few releases so mesmerizing. Hoge's latest, "The Wreckage" is a solid return to his earlier sound.

"The Wreckage" may have a double meaning. In 2008, Hoge was involved in a traffic accident that nearly robbed the world of this fine talent. As it states in his bio: "As Hoge rode his scooter home from the studio, he was struck by an oncoming van that had veered into his lane. There were no skid marks. Launched off his bike, Hoge ended up bloodied, broken-boned, temporarily blinded, and near death. [The accident] was like stopping a record as it spins,” says Hoge, who had been halfway through recording material for his new record before getting derailed...For ten months, the accident sidelined Hoge. For ten months, it made him do something he hadn’t done in 18 years: stop the music."

But upon listening to "The Wreckage", another meaning seems to emerge. The primary theme that courses through the record is human connectedness. Song after song, Hoge leads us through a very personal and bittersweet exploration of aging human relationships.

While many of the new songs recapture the essence of that made early Hoge records such a joy, "The Wreckage" is not without its missteps. It has a fair share of ballads and only one or two are engaging enough to want to hear more than once (e.g. "Where Do We Go From Down", which finds Hoge searching "for light in a shadow of a doubt"). Hoge's strong suit are his rip-roaring melodic rockers - which he delivers on tracks like "Hard To Love" and "Favorite Waste of Time". Other highlights include his usual life on the road song, "Highway Wings" (isn't there one of these on every Hoge record?) and the inspirational single, "Even If It Breaks Your Heart".

Musically and lyrically, I think the time away from music has recharged Hoge. Track for track, I think the "The Wreckage" is one of his strongest efforts and is second only to "Blackbird On A Lonely Wire" as my favorite Will Hoge album.

When it comes to roots rock, Will Hoge continues to impress with his contagious passion and good natured melodies. He is long overdue for the recognition he deserves and is proving worthy of inheriting the Tom Petty crown.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10

Will Hoge on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Goldbergs "Jingle Jangle Pop" [EP]

An early holiday treat is about to come your way! Andy Goldberg (see our review of the latest Goldbergs record here) is releasing a special Holiday EP appropriately entitled "Jingle Jangle Pop". The EP contains 4 tracks - 2 brand new and 2 from his previous project, The Sun Kings. Individual tracks or the entire album will be available only on iTunes no later than November 9 - mark your calendars as this is one powerpop fans won't want to miss.

My favorite track, the playful "Chanukah Guy", has that trademark Beatles-esque Goldbergs sound that I raved about earlier this year in my review for "Under The Radar". "Chanukah Guy" features Rich Pagano on drums (who is in the Fab Faux) and John Conte on bass. "Christmas Time Again", recorded entirely in Andy's basement, features Andy singing and playing everything himself.

Tracks 3 and 4, "Santa's Calling" and "Have a Very Merry Christmas", are from Andy's old band The Sun Kings (circa 1998). In addition to giving me two more tracks I can't wait to add to my iPOD's holiday playlist, these tracks provide an intriguing glimpse into Andy's evolution as an artist.

I can't wait until the next full-length release from the Goldbergs, but until then these four holiday tunes will be great to 'yule-tide' me over.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4

The Goldbergs on MySpace.

L'Avventura "Your Star Was Shining" FREE thru Nov!

News from L'Avventura:

"ExploreMusic.com just included "Rocket Sue" in its 5 Songs You Gotta Hear list.

KCRW Los Angeles has put "Swandive" in rotation on its Eclectic24 Internet station. BBC Radio has also been playing tracks from the latest album.

The entire "Your star was shining" album will be available for FREE DOWNLOAD here for the entire month of November."

You can find our review here.

Free GLEN PHILLIPS Sampler!

Go here to get eight free Glen Phillips tracks:

1. Always Have My Love
2. Blood Pressurize
3. Don't Lose Your Voice
4. Return To Me
5. Thankful
6. Crowing
7. Everything But You
8. The Hole

"This is for those of you wondering what I've been up to since Toad. I'd like to give you eight songs in exchange for your email address, so I can tell you about upcoming tours (solo, with Toad and WPA) as well as new recording projects. Sound good? I think so.

Most important new project: WPA - go to wpamusic.com for more information, or wpamusic.bandcamp.com for the record.

Thanks for coming by..." - Glen

Review: Doctor Squid "Doctor Squid"

Doctor Squid - interesting name, interesting sound. What do they sound like, you ask? Well, you might regret asking that question. Here is the answer in the band's own words: "The sound of how wonderful you'd feel if a giant squid successfully performed life-saving surgery on your organs. And then kissed you on the cheek. With his beak."

I have mixed feelings about Doctor Squid - can't quite put my tentacle on it, but something is amiss. The band is unabashedly independent and there are some clever melodies and intriguing harmonies here and there. But at the end of the day the vocals generally sink the ship for me. They are not awful, but kind of all over the place and on the whiny side to borderline annoying. And that is a shame because there are some songs here that are quite infectious - these guys have a good instinct for writing playful sing-a-long stuff. For example, check out "The Things We've Chased", "Running", and "On My Way".

Doctor Squid is part Fountains of Wayne, part Weezer, and a dash of They Might Be Giants. Musically solid and lyrically fresh, but with vocals that might make you wish Doctor Squid was calamari. As they sing on "The Day It Rained Hot Coffee", they don't sink or swim...they just float.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 5, 8

Doctor Squid on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

News and free mp3 from DANNY ECHO

This just in from Danny Echo (see review of his latest album here).

"We have some exciting news. First off, we have just finished recording a new "radio version" of our 'Tomorrow Today' (a previous version was included on our last CD). The new, improved version was mixed by the legendary Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Franz Ferdinand, etc), and produced by Jeff Dawson (Daniel Powter, Kelly Rowland, Tal Bachman). You can download the new version for FREE on our website at: http://www.dannyecho.com/echoes.htm

Second item: We have the honour of being selected as one of the Top 20 finalists in the Vancouver-based Peak Performance Project, a seven-year,$5.29 million contest open to all independent musicians in Vancouver (and the rest of British Columbia, Canada). Of these twenty artists, the top three will share $275,000 in cash for career development. First place receives $150,000; second place receives $75,000; and third place receives $50,000. Obviously, the prize money would be a huge boost for our career....Part of the criteria we are being judged on is an online vote. Please vote for DANNY ECHO! Create a wave of support for us: http://www.peakperformanceproject.com/?page_id=1113

We have some additional brand new material that we are preparing for a new release, so we'll keep you posted as soon as it is released!" -DANNY ECHO

Review: Creedence Clearwater Revival "The Singles Collection"

Below is a press release regarding the latest compilation from Creedence Clearwater Revival (a.k.a. CCR). This one is unique in featuring all of the singles from CCR - whether they charted or not. Spread across 2 CDs, this sprawling collection is the perfect way for new fans to get acquainted with CCR. For fans who have all their records already, the collection may still have appeal for you as it features a cool DVD with four music videos not previously available and a slick poster of artwork from the singles. Everything is included in a handsome slip case.

The new collection is a great way to honor and appreciate once again some of the finest work from a legendary American rock and roll band. Most CCR fans already have a comprehensive set of hits with "Chronicles, Vol 1"; if you are one of them, there are only a handful of additional tracks to appreciate on "The Singles Collection". "Revolutions Per Minute (parts 1 and 2)" are conversational pieces and in my opinion not worth going out of your way for...but other tracks like "Porterville", "Call It Pretending", and "Door To Door" are a few gems you'll find here and not on "Chronicles".

"Creedence Clearwater Revival's golden era of hit singles (fall of 1968 through spring of 1972) rivals that of any band in rock 'n' roll history. The Southern-flavored quartet from El Cerrito, Calif., turned out 17 hits in a 44-month stretch, nine of them in the Top 10, five of them in the Top 5.

On November 3, Fantasy Records will release "The Singles Collection", a two-CD, one-DVD box with a slip case, containing all of Creedence Clearwater Revival's U.S. singles -- 30 songs in all. Top 5 smashes like "Bad Moon Rising," "Green River," "Down on the Corner," "Travelin' Band," "Who'll Stop the Rain," "Run Through the Jungle," "Up Around the Bend," "Long As I Can See the Light" and "Lookin' Out My Back Door" are joined by seldom-heard singles that never charted ("Porterville" and "Call It Pretending" on Fantasy's Scorpio subsidiary, and later singles "Tearin' Up the Country" and "45 Revolutions Per Minute [Parts 1 & 2]").

The 30 songs, (which are presented in their original single mixes, many of them in mono --- are making their CD debut), housed on two CDs, will be joined by a DVD containing four never-before-available, long-pre-MTV music videos: "I Heard it Through the Grapevine," "Bootleg," "I Put a Spell on You" and "Lookin' Out My Back Door." Also included in the package are a poster featuring the dozens of international single sleeves, and a 16-page booklet with liner notes by former Rolling Stone editor Ben Fong-Torres, who lived and wrote in the Bay Area during CCR's golden half-decade.

Fantasy will also manufacture a limited edition collectors' version of "The Singles Collection" featuring actual vinyl 45 rpm singles with reproductions of the original Fantasy label design and housed in their rare picture sleeves-- the ultimate holiday gift for Creedence fans. Forty years later, the music sounds as fresh and vital as ever."

Get it.

The Damnwells NEXT RECORD

From The Damnwells:

"First, thanks to all of you who have downloaded and continue to download our record, One Last Century [reviewed here on BMF]. It’s been a great experience for us to be able to connect directly with our fans, as well as make some new ones. Thank you all for your continued support. Consider One Last Century as our gift to you, though really it’s just payback for all the great support you’ve given us over the years.

As we embark on a new recording project, we need to ask for your help. Bands rely on their fans. You’re the people who come to the shows, buy us drinks, sing along, and make us feel pretty. The Damnwells need to take that one step further. Don’t worry; you can keep your clothes on (for now, anyway). What we need is your help in making our next record. We’ve recently partnered up with Pledge Music, an organization that helps independent bands raise the money necessary to make records. What’s so great about Pledge is that not only do they help independent bands get their records made, they also donate 10% of the money tallied to charity.

Here’s how it works. By pledging your donation here (http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/90), you will not only be able to directly assist in making this new record, you will also have access to EXCLUSIVE Damnwells b-sides, video posts, blogs, photos, not to mention helping fight against AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. For this project, we’ve decided to offer 10% to The Global Fund, a humanitarian organization committed to providing much-needed resources for the prevention and treatment of these devastating diseases. Oh, and you also get to download the record once it’s done.

But wait! That’s not all! (cue Vanna White.)

Check out the “Exclusives” section on our home page for, well, exclusive opportunities. Get your name in the credits. Come hang out for a rehearsal. Have us come play your house. Go nuts!

For now, head to the site and enjoy a free download, a little taste of what you’ll have access to when you pledge. The song is called “Death Defier,” and I suppose it embodies some of what we’re talking about here. (Click on the “download” button at the bottom of the page to get it.)

Help us continue to make music and maybe, possibly, really change some lives.
Fans, this one’s for you.

Love, as always,

The Damnwells

http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/90

Review: Andrew Petersen "The Universe, And Its Sense Of Humour"

Singer/songwriter Andrew Petersen (Brisbane, Australia) has released his first solo album entitled, "The Universe, And Its Sense Of Humour". Petersen, the frontman for soul-rockers Shutterspeed, has been working on this project for 2 years, which he describes as: "It's got definite country flavours but it's not a country record, it's got pop sensibilities but it's not a pop record. It's music with a melodic heart. It's music with humour and passion".

Petersen's solo record distinguishes itself from Shutterspeed with its organic and acoustic feel, yet he has not abandoned his instinct for writing solid melodic hooks. Sprinkled into the mix you'll hear some well-placed harmonica, mandolin, pedal steel, and banjo, but it would be a misnomer to call this country or folk - it's more pop rock with an alt-country flavor. The production is remarkably good - bright, crisp guitars whether strummed or picked.

Petersen's voice sounds somewhere between Bob Seger and Ed Roland (Collective Soul), just perfect for this type of roots rock. Highlights include the upbeat harmonica-enhanced "A River Near Here", the swaying "It Gets That Way", and "I'll Come Running", a veritable tribute to classic Bob Seger. There is also a great cover of "Soul Deep", an all too often forgotten gem by Wayne Carson Thompson made famous by The Box Tops in 1969. Finally, "Hide" is a stripped down and beautifully performed acoustic ballad that quietly closes the record.

If this were basketball, "The Universe, And Its Sense Of Humour" is nothing but net. A fantastic debut that hits all the right buttons. Recommended for fans of Ryan Adams, Will Hoge, and Counting Crows.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11

Andrew Petersen on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Review: Crosby Loggins "Time To Move"

I missed the 2007 debut record "We All Go Home", so this new release "Time To Move" is my first exposure to Crosby Loggins, son of AOR top gun, Kenny. Let's get the inevitable comparisons out of the way first, shall we?

Does he sound like his father? If he is complaining that his CD is currently going for less than one dollar in the used bins, then yes. But otherwise, if I didn't know better, I would never have guessed he was Kenny's boy.
Did his father help with any of the songs? No - whether that is a good or bad thing is a matter of personal opinion.
What has he done that his father hasn't already? Crosby won MTV's reality show "Rock the Cradle". That has to look good on your resume.
Is he fond of beards? Evidently.
Will any song from "Time To Move" be featured in a testosterone-driven action movie? Most definitely not.

Crosby Loggins is attempting to carve out a niche of his own here, as the title might suggest. He sounds quite comfortable but not all that confident yet. "Time To Move" primarily consists of run of the mill light rock with simplistic lyrics about girls and love - sound familiar? His vocal performance is adequate, but nothing that stands out in the crowd. He probably has it in him to dazzle us more than he does here. The good news is that the melodic fruit did not fall far from the tree - the most memorable tracks include the upbeat numbers "Good Enough", "Better Days", and "Radio Heart". Incidentally, "Radio Heart" was co-written with Glen Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket). Another guest star is John Mayer, who supplies the guitar solo on the title track.

Closest comparisons would be contemporary soft rockers like John Mayer, Jack Johnson, and Train. If this is your thing, you can get the CD used for less than a buck at Amazon.com.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 6, 9, 10

Crosby Loggins on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Jeff Larson "Heart of the Valley"

The latest from singer/songwriter Jeff Larson is called "Heart of the Valley", and boasts songs, production, and performances from Gerry Beckley (America). Many of the songs are penned by Beckley, with a couple co-written with Larson. The chemistry of this collaboration is noticeable right from the start and only gets better as the disc is played again and again.

The first comparison that sprung to my mind was Timothy B. Schmit (Eagles) - Larson weaves his voice so effortlessly around the mellow musical terrain, making "Heart of the Valley" such a gentle treat for tired ears. Even better, these gorgeous songs are grounded with a strong melodic hook and drenched in 70s-inspired harmonies.

A few seconds into the opening strums of the title track and you realize this is a CD to chill out to - it is a perfect accompaniment to your Sunday morning coffee. "Sudden Soldier" is probably my favorite tune in this set, sounding most like a long lost track from America, and not just because Beckley shares the lead vocal with Larson. Other highlights include the upbeat "Minus Marci", the graceful ballad "Calling", and the slow building drama of "Two People At Once".

Jeff Larson has a winner here: smooth rock for adults with a modest country vibe in the spirit of the Eagles, Poco, and America.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11

Jeff Larson on MySpace. Official site.

Gerry Beckley on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Five For Fighting "Slice"

I've been a casual fan of Five For Fighting (a.k.a. singer/songwriter John Ondrasik) from the get-go, but with each new release I become a little more fanatical about how great these CDs are (and more frustrated with how Five For Fighting seems to receive less attention with each new record). The fifth album, "Slice", contains some of the strongest material Ondrasik has written and performed to date.

"Slice" is exceptionally Billy Joel-inspired and is consistently amazing through the first seven tracks. Ondrasik is the new piano man - and this time around, his brand of piano-driven pop rock is lushly orchestrated and sonically awesome. Better still, the eleven songs are built on his usual thought-provoking lyrics. If he's not telling a poignant story, he's compelling you to ponder the bittersweet complexities of life of human relations.

There are too many ace tracks to highlight them all - suffice it to say that nearly every track is melodic and beautiful, with subtle hints of genius that should make the hairs on your neck stand up. "Chances" (the current single) and "Story of Your Life" (should be a single) are upbeat, catchy, and a friend to radio. "Tuesday" and "This Dance" are a couple of the standout ballads. "Note to the Unknown Soldier" is one of the greatest tributes I've ever heard. Finally, lead-off and title track, "Slice", can be taken as a sequel to Don McLean's "American Pie", with Five For Fighting proving that today is the day music has been reborn. Get this one, gang - it is a terrific record, no matter how you slice it.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9

Five For Fighting on MySpace. Official site.

Rare CD: Greg Kihn "Rockihnroll"

"Rare official CD released on "Son of Beserkley" label! Winning bid pays your choice of media mail or priority mail shipping. Good luck on owning this great piece of 80s rock music!"

Sold for $100 on ebay (10 bids)

Rare CD: Pharaoh "On Your Knees"

"This is a 4 song Monster Rare indie from 1991, if you're a serious collector you have probably heard of this one before."

Sold for $474 on ebay (16 bids).

Rare CD: Robin Gibb "Secret Agent"

"This is the Robin Gibb "Secret Agent" CD. This is EXTREMELY RARE and Hard to find. This was released on Mirage Records, made by Polygram. This has been out of print for some time and very sought after. Both the disc and the artwork are in MINT Condition. Feel free to ask any questions and thanks for looking."

Sold for $530 on ebay (10 bids).

Review: Kevin McAdams "It's My Time to Lose My Mind"

Kevin McAdams (Elefant, Watchmakers) steps out from behind the drum kit to release his first solo effort "It's My Time to Lose My Mind". His CD contains 11 tracks, most of which fit comfortably in the pop rock genre, with a handful that contain some modest experimental elements (Beck comes to mind) to keep things interesting.

The instantly catchy first track, "Start Over Again", which recalls a bit of E.L.O., will grab you at the get go. "Start Over Again" has plenty of harmonies draping its sunny hook - when this song ends, you'll likely want to start it over again. While nothing else on the CD tops this wonderful pop confection, some of the other tunes come very close, such as "A Different Kind of Love Song", "The Hustler", and "My Time". The songs are generally upbeat and peppy, but the lyrics and vocal delivery are fairly melancholy. Like McAdams sings, "I'd like to write a happy song, but lately everything I've touched just falls apart". Well, not everything, Kevin..."It's My Time to Lose My Mind" holds itself together quite well.

McAdams' voice has that somewhat faint, whispery quality to it that puts him somewhere between The Brigadier and Matt Nathanson. It won't knock your socks off, but it services his brand of song well. As you would expect from an accomplished drummer, the rhythm section in all of these tracks is outstanding, many of them possessing an unshakable dance groove. All in all, a solid release that should get enough favorable reviews to keep McAdams stepping away from the drums and up to the mic more often.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 5, 6, 10

Kevin McAdams on MySpace. Get it.

New video from Vinyl Candy

Go here to read our review of the great new power pop CD from Vinyl Candy.

They've just released their first video on-line. Check it out:


Purchase "Land" on CD or MP3!

Review: Dangtrippers "Days Between Stations"

Here is a powerpop gem from the vault: The Dangtrippers debut LP, "Days Between Stations", from out of Iowa circa 1988. I recently dusted this one off to give it a spin and was surprised at how well these songs have stood the test of time. This one features their original lead singer, Devin Hill, who went on to release a number of solo albums in the 90s. Sadly, he and The Dangtrippers remain undeservedly below the radar.

The Dangtrippers deliver curt jangle-pop, with most songs rarely exceeding the three minute mark. Sharp and to the point, Devin Hill and company cut right to the chase to express the lyrical idea with a nice melody...and then onto the next one. The Dangtrippers kind of remind me of The Posies and 80s-era R.E.M., offering plenty of warm, upbeat tunes with plenty of harmonies. Good stuff worth hunting down. Highlights include "When Time Runs Out", "Masquerade", and "Reasons Why".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 5, 9, 10, 11

Dangtrippers on MySpace. Devin Hill on MySpace.

Review: Foreigner "Can't Slow Down"

I didn't think we'd ever have the pleasure of reviewing a new record from Foreigner, the classic rock and AOR band that first formed back in late 70s. I imagine some fans are confused as to how the current line up can justify calling themselves Foreigner, seeing that the only conserved founding member is Mick Jones. But we're not here to debate that, we are here to tell you if the record is worthwhile.

The first thing that struck me about "Can't Slow Down" is how well this group of guys have captured the trademark Foreigner sound. Kelly Hansen (Hurricane) became the new lead vocalist since Lou Gramm's second departure in 2003. Much like Arnel Pineda substituting for Steve Perry in Journey, Hansen sounds remarkably close to Gramm, yet still retains enough of his own style that a discerning ear can tell the difference. Hansen does an excellent job on this record.

But the second reason why this record is such a pleasant surprise pertains to the simple fact that Mick Jones brought a batch of very solid AOR songs to the studio table. Always wise to balance rock with melody, Jones and the boys aim to please with this set of punchy and catchy tunes. While I found the ballads to be largely uninteresting ("As Long As I Live" being an exception), the record makes up for this with plenty of midtempo and upbeat numbers.

Does the record sound dated? Yes and no. They kept the keyboards down to a minimum, so that element of their 80s heyday is unnoticeable. But Foreigner is bringing saxy back with this record! Numerous songs feature some in your face sax, which is something I've not heard much of since the 80s.

Highlights include "In Pieces", "Living In A Dream", "Lonely", and the title track. Another cool one is the closer, "Fool For You Anyway", which is a horn-laced and soulful retro rocker in the finest Joe Cocker tradition (long time fans will recognize this song from Foreigner's debut CD many years ago). I had a lot of fun with this record - like I said, it was a pleasant surprise. Lyrically and musically, "Can't Slow Down" largely sticks to the classic AOR formula, but there is a charm and energy here that makes the record worthwhile. Younger acts can learn a lot from these seasoned rockers who once again demonstrate that memorable songs start with good hooks.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

Foreigner on MySpace. Official site

Review: ghostbird "ghostbird" [EP]

Trent Hancock & Mike Cooper are the forces behind ghostbird, who released their self-titled EP June 30. Their mission with ghostbird, which literally means owl, is to "blend musical styling with social substance". Fitting to the nomenclature, the EP is wise, stately, a bit mysterious, and best played at night. Their music certainly does not conjure up your stereotypical view of their homebase, San Diego, CA.

ghostbird likens their sound to Postal Service, Radiohead, and Spoon. These comparisons are fair as indie artists tend to be genre benders and blenders. The music generally feels inorganic and takes a couple listens for the hooks to show their teeth. I know it is done purposefully, but the percussion is performed as if the drummer is playing to a completely different song.

Faithful readers know that I am not a fan of electronica, a genre that ghostbird flirts with, but actually uses in small, tolerable doses. The majority of the tracks didn't give me much of a reason to return to them, but the brooding power of "Night Kills Day" and peppy bounce of "Caroline" are will earn a place on the ol' iPOD. These two tracks are much closer to the straight-forward pop rock readers trust me to recommend.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 4

ghostbird on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for the single "Toy Soldier":

Review: First In Space "Geronimo"

I just got hold of the new sophomore release from Ohio-based band, First In Space. There is nothing too fancy about the CD packaging and artwork...just a modest black and white photo of three normal looking guys on the front, and an understated black and white photo of their gear on the back. The music by First In Space is exactly like their presentation: no nonsense, no frills, let's just get the job done and get it done right.

Their sophomore release, "Geronimo", comes complete with straight-up harmony-laden guitar rock adorning stroytelling lyrics. Vocal duties are divided equally between founding members Johnny Stanec and Dolus McCormick (see below), who incidentally harmonize very well and very often. Despite who is taking the lead, the vocal delivery is heartfelt and warm, and often contains some nice moments where the notes are sustained, with "It's All Gone To Hell" being the best example.

The CD is front-loaded with the best tracks being "Goddamn Shame", "It's All Gone To Hell", and "They Won't Catch Me Now". The latter half of the record is not bad by any means, but collectively it lacks the instant likability of the first half. Still, this is a very consistent CD that you can enjoy from start to finish.

"Geronimo" would have fit perfectly with the rise of melodic rock acts during the mid-90s that made us begin scratching at heads while listening to lingering grunge, wondering, "What the hell were we thinking?". Like the bands Gin Blossoms, Del Amitri, and Better Than Ezra, First In Space is the kind of band that could reinstate pop rock and make it cool again. First In Space should be in orbit around your head.

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

First In Space on MySpace. Official site.

You can find First In Space CDs at Not Lame Records, Kool Kat Musik, and CDbaby, or it can be downloaded at iTunes, Amazon.com, Last.FM, Rhapsody, Napster, etc.

Catch them on tour:
NY, NY Oct. 9th at Kenny's Castaways
Pittsburgh, PA Oct. 22nd at Club Cafe
Youngstown, OH Oct. 24th at Cedars Lounge
Akron, OH Nov. 27th at Musica
Akron, OH Dec. 4th at Annabelle's

Here is a track listing and which member is doing the lead vocal:
1. Goddamn Shame- Dolus McCormick
2. It's All Gone To Hell- Johnny Stanec
3. Take It Away- Dolus McCormick
4. They Won't Catch Me Now- Johnny Stanec
5. In My Dreams- Johnny Stanec
6. Stuck Around You- Dolus McCormick
7. When I Was Young (I Was Cruel)- Johnny Stanec
8. Down On Me- Dolus McCormick
9. Taking Over- Dolus McCormick
10. End of the Night- Johnny Stanec

Review: Paramore "Brand New Eyes"

All eyes are on Paramore...their sophomore release, 2007's "Riot!", was a huge breakthrough for this rock band. Propelled by a string of radio-friendly hits the record went platinum, and their mix of emo and alternative rock was pleasing the ears of many teens (and quite a few adults, too). So expectations are running high - was "Riot!" a fluke or does Paramore really have what it takes to have a sustained career in this business?

I wasn't too thrilled about the first two tracks, which include the current single, "Ignorance", which I think is mediocre at best. But the CD's midsection is very melodic and saves "Brand New Eyes" from going straight into my CD trading pile. "Playing God" has a great Jimmy Eat World vibe, while "Brick By Boring Brick" sounds like it could have been included on "Riot!". "Turn It Off" is an excellent midtempo pop rocker while "The Only Exception" gives vocalist Haley Williams a chance to showcase her righteous chops with a decent power ballad. But she saves the best for last and delivers a chill-inducing performance on the album's closer, "All I Wanted".

I have mixed feelings about the production by Rob Cavallo, and often wonder if anyone with major label support does NOT have Chris Lord-Alge doing the mixing. It seems Cavallo was out to make Paramore sound like Shinedown, and while the volcano of sound is impressive, all too often it fails to let the CD breathe. Hayley Williams has a fantastic voice and I would have loved to hear it above the crashing guitars more often.

While a respectable successor with some terrific moments, "Brand New Eyes" doesn't quite rise above "Riot!", but I have a feeling we will be hearing plenty more from Paramore.

iPOD-worthy: 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11

Paramore on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Dimes "The King Can Drink the Harbour Dry"

Back in July, we featured The Dimes' "New England" EP here on BMF (review here). The EP was unique in giving us a history lesson about colonial New England - and a history lesson never sounded so good. These guys from Portland, Oregon will be releasing the full-length follow-up record December 1, entitled "The King Can Drink the Harbour Dry".

"The King Can Drink the Harbour Dry" continues to provide us intriguing historical insights while entertaining our ears with their soothing pastoral sounds. Frontman Johnny Clay sings these tunes as if they were lullabies, and the band plays music to match. "The King Can Drink the Harbour Dry" is filled to the rim with flavorful tunes that are simply gorgeous. Collectively, the songs could be considered to be a historical soundtrack for the city of Boston - most involve people or events associated with Boston...or at least Massachusetts. "Damrell's Fire" is centered on The Great Boston Fire of 1872, "The Liberator" is about William Lloyd Garrison's abolitionist newspaper of the same name, "Susan Be" is reference to Susan B. Anthony...you get the idea. Incidentally, Boston is the hometown of bandmate Pierre Kaiser.

The Dimes cleverly evoke colonial imagery with their distinct sound, which is always pure and pristine. There is a baroque assortment of instruments, but you'll also detect some harmonies reminiscent of 60s pop. Noted engineer Jeff Stuart Saltzman (Death Cab For Cutie, Decemberists, Sleater-Kinney) is at the helm once again, putting his touch on these beautiful and well-crafted songs. Highlights include "The Liberator", "Celia's Garden", "Webster Thayer", and "Save Me, Clara", which is my personal favorite. Recommended if you like The Decemberists, Andrew Bird, or Great Lake Swimmers. And that is my two cents worth regarding The Dimes.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11

The Dimes on MySpace. Official site.

You can preview The Dimes for free right now with these mp3s (free and legal):
“Damrell’s Fire”
“Walden and the Willow Tree”
Enjoy!

Check out a live performance video of "Susan Be":

Review: Pearl Jam "Backspacer"

While I consider their first three records among the best recordings I own, shortly after 1996's "No Code" I no longer got too excited about a new release from Pearl Jam. They too often seemed to go out of their way to avoid good hooks in their music and cluttered their records with baffling filler. I caught wind of the "controversy" surrounding their latest (ninth) release, "Backspacer", with enough critics and fans slamming the band for sounding too melodic (oh the horror!) that I had to check it out for myself.

For me, "Backspacer" is the record I've always wanted Pearl Jam to make. It is unabashed garage rock that by in large retains the trademark Pearl Jam sound (hard to avoid with Vedder's distinct vocals) yet finally dares to contain songs that you will remember and want to sing. It is a quick fix - just 37 minutes or so - but it comes at you like a bunch of fast jabs, with only a few quiet moments. "Backspacer" makes both the classic and punk rock influences of Pearl Jam more evident than ever. Vedder puts in plenty of umph as usual, but comes across as more sincere this time - you can almost feel him having a good time for once! The band also incorporates some piano, acoustic guitars, and other dynamics that make "Backspacer" an added pleasure to hear over and over again.

Refusing to slow down until the atypically gentle acoustic ballad, "Just Breathe", the band rocks out with gusto on cuts like "Gonna See My Friend" and the catchy single, "The Fixer". Other highlights include the groovy "Force of Nature" and supercharged energy of "Supersonic".

"Backspacer" is a thrill. Even if you've grown disenchanted with Pearl Jam, pick this one up and see if you agree that it is their best since "Vitalogy".

iPOD-worthy: ALL TRACKS

Pearl Jam - official site.

Review: Grace Basement "Gunmetal Gray"

Grace Basement from St. Louis is back with their sophomore effort, "Gunmetal Gray". Voted "Best New Band" by The Riverfront Times in 2007, bandleader Kevin Buckley is hopeful that his latest will take off like a shot from a gun.

Kevin Buckley is not only the guitarist, singer and songwriter behind Grace Basement, he happens to be a world-class Irish fiddler. He brings this novel element into his pop rock songs, creating a fresh and interesting dynamic. Building on this theme, he's also recruited several noted guests from St. Louis' rock, folk and Irish music scenes (including his father Jack, who plays the Uilleann pipes). So you'll also hear some gentle horns, accordion, harp, and more peppered throughout "Gunmetal Gray". Lyrically, Buckley thoughtfully explores themes of separation, loneliness, and finding meaning.

"Gunmetal Gray" has lots of ammo packed right up front with instantly catchy cuts like "There He Goes" (my favorite on the disc, by the way), "Tilly Lingers", the soothingly sweet ballad "Back On The Moon", and the rockin' "Bad Design". These are hard acts to follow; consequently, the latter half of the CD seemed to struggle in matching this precedent. However, I really enjoyed the acoustic driven ballad "Highway" and the quiet, steady build of "Golden Bell" towards the end.

Grace Basement walks the line between melancholy and upbeat pop, with an occasional sidestep into the baroque. Recommended if you like Guided by Voices, Waterboys, or Flaming Lips.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9

Grace Basement on MySpace. Official site.

TV that rocks: "Fame" Seasons One and Two on DVD

“Fame! I’m gonna live forever!" was being sung in many a shower during the early 80s, but with no one quite capturing the finesse and grace of Irene Cara. Her inspirational song helped make her movie of the same name a huge success. The song went on to win an Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Original Song and helped to launch Cara's career as a pop star. The success of the movie also spawned an equally successful television series that ran for six seasons between 1982 - 1987. While Cara did not reprise her role, Debbie Allen, Gene Anthony Ray and Lee Cureri did, supported by a very talented set of new actors and dancers. The first two seasons are now available as a nine-disc set (38 episodes) on DVD as of September 15 from MGM Home Entertainment. Fans of pop music and dance, quality television dramas, or those just nostalgic for the 80s won't want to miss this.

“Fame” Seasons One and Two Synopsis:
Known for its outstanding choreography and popular original songs, the critically acclaimed 1980’s hit earned rave reviews and garnered multiple awards, including a Golden Globe for best TV series comedy/musical in 1983 and again in 1984, instantly establishing a dedicated fan base across the world. Based on the beloved motion picture with the same name, “Fame” brings drama, music and dance to life; Emmy-award winning choreographer Debbie Allen stars as Lydia Grant, a faculty member who guides the gifted students through discouragement and disappointment as they struggle for a spot in the cutthroat entertainment industry. Ultimately, they learn that although there are many set backs on the treacherous road to stardom, they must follow their dreams to achieve fame. Filled with exciting dance sequences and original musical numbers, this double-set includes all 38 original episodes from the first two seasons.

Buy it now!

Review: Cheap Trick "The Latest"

Always a pleasure to listen to something from the masters of modern power pop, Cheap Trick, and their "latest" is no exception. After 35 years, they are still delivering some of the sweetest melodic rock with all the intensity and thrills of a group of teenagers in their parent's garage. Talk about staying power...a lot of today's bands can learn from how these gentlemen get along. Three plus decades and the original line up remains intact: Robin Zander still sounds brilliant on vocals, Rick Nielsen still kicks out plenty of crunchy riffs, Tom Petersson and Bun E. Carlos remain steady on the bass and drums, and all of them still provide those trademark backing vocals.

"The Latest" finds Cheap Trick flaunting a lot more of their Beatles influence than previous releases, with some tracks ("Miracle") making you check to be sure it isn't some obscure John Lennon cover. The production sounds amazing, with mixing by the masterful Chris Lord-Alge. There is a good mix of upbeat numbers among a healthy dose of their signature power ballads.

After beginning with a brief and surreal instrumental, the boys blast into an excellent cover of Slade's "When The Lights Go Out", which sounds better than most of the 70s covers on Def Leppard's "Yeah!" record. The rocking attitude continues with hooky new classics like "Miss Tomorrow" and "Sick Man of Europe". "These Days" sounds like a single that could have fit easily on "Busted", and "Everybody Knows" is one of their best ballads in recent years. Another highlight in this exceptionally strong set is the album closer, "Smile".

There is really nothing wrong with "California Girl", but do we really need another song about freakin' California? Let's hear a song about girls from Maryland or something. The only other minor complaint is that several of the tracks are way too short - they are more like ideas than full-fledged songs. The tragic thing is some of these, like "Everyday You Make Me Crazy", are great ideas and would have made killer tunes.

All things considered, I rank "The Latest" as one of Cheap Trick's greatest (and most consistent) records in a long time. In a perfect world, this one would be the ticket restoring Cheap Trick to their rightful place on top the pop and rock charts.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 13

Cheap Trick on MySpace. Official site.

New video: Boh Runga featuring Serj Tankian "Be Careful"

We thought the debut CD from New Zealand's Boh Runga was fantastic (check it out here), so wanted to let you know about her new video for the great song "Be Careful", which made our famous "iPOD-worthy" list. "Be Careful", a song about starting over, is her duet with System of a Down front man Serj Tankian. The video follows some more info on Boh.

"The song is off Boh's U.S. album debut 'Right Here' which was released digitally in July. Well known in her Native Zealand as the front woman of Stellar (one of New Zealand's most popular bands), and as the designer of the hugely popular Birdland jewelry line, Boh has assembled and eclectic and talented group of collaborators for her U.S. solo debut. The album includes performance collaborations with Serj Tankian and Greg Laswell, and writing collaborations with Wendy Melvoin (Prince and the Revolution), Whiskeytown's Mike Daly, Kevin Savigar, Rod Stewart's songwriter and Shelly Peiken who wrote 'Bitch' for Meredith Brooks and also 'Genie in a Bottle' for Christina Aguilera".

Check out the video:



Boh Runga on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Flying Machines "Flying Machines"

Hopping back and forth between the classic rock sound of Queen to the trendy sound of The Killers, with an occasional side-step into bouncy pop, the Flying Machines hope to blast off in a big way with their new self-titled release. The band has secured a place on the runway having landed some of their music of 'Psych' (USA Network) and winning the Converse 'Get Out of the Garage' battle of the bands contest. They'll also perform at CMJ 2009 and will be featured on the cover of the November CMJ magazine).

William Ryan George can deliver some mad vocals - you'll see what I mean after a few minutes into the opener "Talk About It". He blasts into a falsetto that reminds me of last season's American Idol runner up Adam Lampert. One thing that I normally don't find myself motivated to comment on are the drums, but I have to give a shout out to the talents of Ken Weisbach for his stunning work here.

The first single, "On A Whim" encapsulates everything Flying Machines is all about - layered atop a perky piano melody you'll hear some retro rock overtones and Queen-inspired harmonies in the chorus. The track received 500,000 spins in just three months, becoming the #1 most-played song on Yahoo Music's "Who's Next" for three weeks running. While their single is a clear winner, a few runner ups that should be highlighted include the infectious rocker "Stay" and the sweet 70s-styled pop gem "Hopelessly Alone". The quiet build of "I Don't Remember Why" adds a nice dynamic and is well-placed on the CD to break things up. There's a few tracks that don't quite reach this caliber, but nothing on this CD crashes and burns either.

I'm not completely confident that Flying Machines will soar to great heights with this one, but they certainly got off the ground and deserve to be on your radar. The album is out today and I have clearance to give you this FREE MP3 of "Talk About It".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10

Flying Machines on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Pretty Faces "Another Sound"

A trio of Thorslunds from Canada who modestly refer to themselves as The Pretty Faces are trying to be more than just a face in the crowd with their latest CD, "Another Sound". By some measure they are successful - the hot pink packaging will surely grab your eyeballs. Their sophomore effort just debuted at #163 on CMJ and helping the band secure notable gigs as they embark on a tour, such as a lot at the International Pop Overthrow Festival on November 5.

I like the perky beat and oldies song structure that embodies lead off track "Right On The Money", which is instantly catchy and gives high hopes for the rest of the CD. Sad to say, but nothing that followed seemed to reach the bar set by the opening tune. "Rib" comes close, sounding more like modern indie pop, but this is where Jeph Thorslund's vocal limitations begin to rear its ugly head. He's got the heart and a good instinct for where to go vocally, but he often sounds out of pitch and has some cringe-worthy moments when reaching up to the limit of his vocal range. Add to that the fact that most of these songs are melodiously nondescript and you have a record that generates as much excitement as a tax form. However, Hannah Thorslund takes the mic on "Elephant" and temporarily saves the day with one of her songs...not that it is a great song, but compared to the others it stands out in a big way - it is the elephant in the room.

If you want to check out some Pretty Faces, start with "Right On The Money" or "Elephant". Imagine a cross between the Jim Carroll Band and Plain White T's - in fact, "Yellow Highway Lights" could be their "Hey There Delilah".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 5, 7

The Pretty Faces on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Black Crowes "Before the Frost...Until the Freeze"

"Before the Frost...Until the Freeze" is the latest opus from The Black Crowes, an ambitious project divided into two parts totalling twenty new studio tracks. Kudos to the band for not stabbing fans in the back with the trendy bullsh!t "deluxe" editions of the CD release. The "Before the Frost" CD includes a card allowing access to download the "Until the Freeze" mp3s for no extra charge. The entire project was recorded in just five nights in front of a live studio audience, explaining the audible applause at the end of each track. Also very cool - the CD looks just like an LP.

To put my review in perspective, my top three favorite Black Crowes records are: "By Your Side" (1999), "Shake Your Money Maker" (1990), and "Three Snakes and One Charm" (1996). I believe this year's release is going to be my fourth favorite.

Upon first listen, I honestly wasn't so enthusiastic. Only a couple tracks instantly grabbed me...but after a couple more spins the subtle hooks were sinking in fast and a greater appreciation for the astonishing musicianship was developing. These songs have to chill with you for a bit, but it is worth the investment. Overall, the double album is a more laid back affair for Black Crowes, so people looking for the higher energy of their debut or the upbeat catchy pop of "By Your Side" may be disappointed. While a little slower and viscous, "Before the Frost...Until the Freeze" still engages the listener and is ultimately satisfying. Highlights from "Before the Frost" include the rousing opener, "Good Morning Captain", the excellent ballad "Appaloosa" and the celebratory sound of "And The Band Played On". They also do an intriguing organic dance track ("I Ain't Hiding"), but it was more strange than enjoyable to me.

"Until The Freeze" is comprised of eight more original Black Crowes' studio songs plus a cover version of the Stephen Stills tune "So Many Times." "Freeze" continues in the mellow vein, with most tracks containing copious bluegrass and country overtones. An alter-ego for the band, but not one that I could get into so much.

"Before the Frost...Until the Freeze" won't give you chills right away, but most of it will grow on you as it thaws.

iPOD-worthy:
"Before the Frost" - 1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 12
"...Until the Freeze" - 2, 4

The Black Crowes on MySpace. Official site.

Here they are performing "Good Morning Captain" on Letterman:

Review: Archie Powell and the Exports "Loose Change" [EP]

The new EP from Archie Powell and the Exports, "Loose Change", is loose, raw, and...downright fun. Each song has a core of pop, but Archie Powell and the Exports cover it with enough grit that it is almost disguised. The result is an exciting foray into what I would classify as modern roots rock.

Lead off track "Moving To The City" exemplifies their style - a hook-filled chorus flanked with Wilco-esque attitude. On "Mattson Is A Flake", the low end is cranked up in the chorus, pounding on your ears and demanding your attention. Most of their songs follow a similar dynamic, making this tactic a bit of a trademark for the band - the EP only has 5 songs, so it doesn't get old. The title track is another highlight, with some old country piano accenting the verses until that trademark low end guitar tone comes crashing in during the chorus. For you fans of 50s cover tunes, they end things with an upbeat, acoustic-based cover of Bobby Freeman's "Do You Want To Dance".

Archie Powell and the Exports are taking alt-country to a whole new level of cool, putting a more aggressive and modern spin on the genre. If you enjoy Wilco, Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt, or gritty pop rock of any kind, you owe it to yourself to invest a little time in checking out this EP from Archie Powell and the Exports. The price is right..."Loose Change" is being offered as a FREE download on their MySpace page!

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3

Archie Powell and the Exports on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Loose Change":

Review: Josh Fix "This Town Is Starting To Make Me Angry" [EP]

Hot off the heels of his terrific LP, "Free At Last", which earned a rare perfect score here at BMF (review here), Josh Fix is back already with a new 5-track EP. "This Town Is Starting To Make Me Angry" is an all-too-brief musical meditation on our sorry tendencies to persist in wanting trivial things while a hurricane of poverty and suffering devastates the rest of the world.

Not that you'd easily pick that up in these wonderfully catchy and perky melodies and robust harmonies. Unbelievably, Fix is once again playing all the instruments and doing the vocal duties, leaving me in awe of this guy's talent. With this latest EP, Fix solidifies his righteous position to be this generation's Elton John/Billy Joel.

Nearly every track on "This Town Is Starting To Make Me Angry" shines with brilliance and it just seems to get better as it goes. "Dirty Bloody Naked" is a classic Fix groove, with crisp electric guitar accentuating the jingly piano on this melodious gem. The instantly infectious "Ghosts In Your Head" is my favorite of the bunch. I had a surprising affection for his more low key number, "Dear Lord", a bare bones acoustic ditty with deeply introspective lyrics. "Barely Insane" has a mild disco flavor, bringing potent hints of E.L.O. to mind - it is another fun and rewarding treat for the ears. The only track that I felt a little ho-hum was the title track.

Just enough to whet your appetite, the EP will leave you salivating for his next full-length release, which we hope is not far away. We need another Fix already!

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 5

Josh Fix on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Collective Soul "Collective Soul (Rabbit)"

Collective Soul are about as proliferative as rabbits when it comes to writing catchy rock songs and delicate ballads. Believe it or not, Ed Roland and the boys have been at this now for almost 15 years, and their talent to fill their releases with potential hit after hit is admirable. While you couldn't find a radio station without them in their program list during the 90s, the new decade has met them with an undeserved cold shoulder. Now on Roadrunner Records, can Collective Soul once again dominate the charts?

Collective Soul marks their eighth release with another self-titled record (their 1995 sophomore record was eponymous); the 2009 release is consequently referred to as "rabbit", referring to the bunny on the cover that is the likely inspiration for the song "Fuzzy". At any rate, Collective Soul delivers another 11 tracks of what fans expect, with the same level of energy that has made their other seven albums so enjoyable. What is lacking are unequivocal hits.

The record begins with a rousing crowd-pleaser, "Welcome All Again", which probably goes over better at a concert than on a record. It is lyrically empty and just doesn't do much for me. "Fuzzy" had potential, but the guitar tone (yes, it sounds fuzzy - how clever) and the whistling rub me the wrong way. They just turn what could have been a cool midtempo rocker into a novelty track that is merely a sonic onomatopoeia. "Dig" is a solid track delivered with gusto, but just doesn't climb above the bar Collective Soul has passed previously. After this, they settle into a more comfortable groove and the chemistry comes together to deliver some new standards by which the band can be proud to be measured by.

"You" is a great acoustic-laced ballad, quickly followed by the punchy "My Days", which is a groovy throwback to their debut material. Another one-two punch hits us next, with the brilliantly shifting "Understanding" and the album's first single, the mellow but pleasant "Staring Down". Things get a little too average after that.

The new one by Collective Soul is like a sandwich - good meat in the middle, but it is slapped between two pieces of stale bread. In short, good...not great. Collective Soul has done better, but their latest is still more fulfilling than most of the garbage out there.

iPOD-worthy: 4, 5, 6, 7

Collective Soul on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Van Ghost "Melodies For Lovers"

"Melodies For Lovers" marks the debut record for Chicago band Van Ghost. Van Ghost is the brainchild of concert promoter/band manager Michael Berg, who was inspired to write and record his own tunes after working with many other diverse artists in the business. His connections allowed him to assemble a group of exceptional musicians to contribute to the Van Ghost project, and their chops can't be knocked.

A mix of alt-country and Southern rock, there is plenty on this offering to satisfy most readers of BMF. "Melodies For Lovers" is richly textured, generally bright, and organic through and through. But personally, I felt the hooks could be stronger and too many songs sound too similar. Also, the vocals sound like a hybrid of Bob Mould and John Wesley Harding; they work better on some songs than others. My picks include the sweeping "Summer Promise", the skillfully catchy "Do It For You" (my favorite), the bouncy "Through The Years", and slow burner, "Coliseum". Recommended if you like The Derek Trucks Band, Pat McGee, or Black Crowes.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 8, 14

Van Ghost on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Chris Richards and the Subtractions "Sad Sounds of the Summer"

Power pop fans in the audience may already be familiar with Detroit's Chris Richards, but now he's added the Subtractions for the 2009 release "Sad Sounds of the Summer" (Gangplank Records). Don't let the album title fool you - there is nothing sad about this upbeat melodic rock. On the contrary, it is a perfect summertime soundtrack, containing radiant and sunny tunes guaranteed to brighten your day.

Chris Richards has a little Scot Sax thing going on with his vocals, and the abundant harmonies round out his sound in the most ear-pleasing way imaginable. There are strong hints of 80s pop rock coming through in the guitar tones, calling to mind some of the best guitar-driven acts of that era (e.g. The Outfield, Jimmy Davis & Junction). The ten tracks on this record are full of solid hooks, infectious riffs, and meticulous harmonies. Every song is respectable, but some of the stronger ones that appeal to me the most include "I Can't Quit Her", "Consolation", and "I Do Declare".

The harmonies and song structures are strongly reminiscent of The Rembrandts, but fans of The Meadows, Material Issue, and Matthew Sweet will also find plenty on this disc to savor. Definitely not a CD fans of power pop will want to miss this year!

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

Chris Richards and the Subtractions on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Review: hyperstory "hyperstory"

The debut CD from hyperstory strikes me as a bit of a throwback to the classic days of LPs that were meant to be digested whole. Scott Blevins is the man behind this story, who intentionally recorded the tracks at a wide variety of places around L.A. in order to create a diversity of sound. He describes the music of hyperstory as "genre bending, with live instrumentation, programming, ambient textures and unique performances all playing a part."

The nine tracks on the disc are a heady mix of instrumentals and interludes with some pretty straight forward pop rock containing a dash of electronica. I am not a huge fan of instrumentals, and this record doesn't change that much, with exception of the very groovy track, "Ascension". This one makes me feel like a cop driving the backstreets in the 70s, having an epiphany about a cold case. The retro feel and wicked bass line just ooze coolness and will be my new theme song to play on the way to work each day. Additional standouts include the mellow "Will It Ever Change" - very Pink Floyd - as well as "A Recokoning", which is a soaring and upbeat piece of tasteful pop.

A mix of influences and genres - "artertainment" - hyperstory is not for everyone or every occasion, but is good to have on hand for when the moment is right. The album comes out November 10. In the meantime, why not get on the mailing list and be rewarded with a free mp3 of "a happening"?

iPOD-worthy: 5, 6, 8

hyperstory on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Star and Micey "Star and Micey"

Star and Micey is a new indie pop band from Memphis, who have just completed the recording of their self-titled debut record at the legendary Ardent Studios. The core of Star and Micey is comprised of Joshua Cosby (guitars/lead vocals), Geoff Smith (bass, vocals, percussion), and Nick Redmond (lead guitars). The trio named themselves after a homeless man who called himself Star, who one day told Cosby about a song he wrote about his ex-wife Micey. The band is supported by the newly reactivated Ardent Music label, which was founded in 1959 and brought the hugely influential Big Star (no relation to the homeless dude mentioned above) to the world. So do Star and Micey stand out in a musical universe consisting of billions and billions of wannabe stars?

Probably not, but one can easily spot a few twinkling diamonds in their sky. The music is generally upbeat yet tranquil - a gentle blend of quirky folk rock and pop sensibility. Cosby's vocals are shaky and timid, sometimes so shaky that you're not sure if its a vibrato or nerves. He frequently glides into a rather effeminate falsetto that will impress or scare you. But to his credit, Cosby's vocals are soothing and nonthreatening, well suited to the brand of folk pop they have mastered.

Highlights include the joyously poppy "Carly" (complete with a great sing-a-long ba bop ba ba line in the chorus), "My Beginning", and the undeniably infectious "So Much Pain", which is my favorite in the pack. If you like Jack Johnson, Frente!, or Paul Turner, be sure to lend an ear to "Star and Micey" sometime soon. The album is out October 20.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 5

Star and Micey on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Brigadier "Time Is A Wound"

Loyal readers of this blog know our fondness for The Brigadier, the UK-based pop singer/songwriter also known as Matt Williams (see here). Following a string of impressive releases of indie Brit-pop, The Brigadier is back already with his third full-length record, bringing more infectious melodies and harmonies into the world.

The thing that stands out for me the most on "Time Is A Wound" is that The Brigadier can rock! This time out, Williams is more liberal than ever with the electric guitar, which really works on some of these tracks and takes them to a whole new level. You'll notice this right away with the rambunctious opener, "I’m Gonna Make You Mine Missy", which is my favorite track on the CD. The rocking guitar is a refreshing twist on his usual formula of gentle and sweet indie pop. But long-time fans need not worry...there is plenty of the typical Brigadier sound to be found on his latest effort. Even in the rocking "I’m Gonna Make You Mine Missy", there are still his trademark harmonies, hand claps, catchy melodies, and sunny keys.

A strong suit of "Time Is A Wound" is the mix of jubilant pop rock with moody atmospheric pieces. Yet, despite this diversity, every tune remains wholly recognizable as a Brigadier song. For instance, "Why Don't You Love Me" is rich with elements from 70s pop funk and R&B, but the ELO-like harmonies bring it all home to Brigadier territory. The record is not without its quiet, reflective moments, such as the harpsichord enhanced "Wrong By You" and "The Insomnia", as well as the haunting "Watch Me Cry".

In addition to the outstanding "I’m Gonna Make You Mine Missy", I'd highlight the bouncy piano-driven number, "Oh, Paddington", the McCartney-esque "Traditional Lovesong", and acoustic driven (and aptly titled) "Something Good". You also have to check out the lyrically interesting title track, with lines such as "Time heals all wounds...that ain't true when time is the wound". Bringing in rock, pop, folk, this track is another example showcasing the extraordinarily diverse musical talents of Matt Williams...long live The Brigadier!

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 12, 13

The Brigadier on MySpace. Official site. Get it.