Review: No Second Troy "Colors"

Washington DC's No Second Troy is out to blur the line between indie rock and pop with their upcoming release, "Colors". Surrounding classic introspective indie rock lyrics with melodic sensibility, No Second Troy is in position to make this a successful merger.

Another plus for the band is vocalist Jeff Wharen, who has that perfect tone for a rock singer - reminds me somewhat of Anthony Caleb Followill (Kings of Leon). The rest of the band is tight, effortlessly threading elements from across multiple musical genres into a fresh new tapestry.

One of my favorites on the record is "The Black and White Movie", both musically and lyrically. Keyboardist Mike Beach explains, "'The Black and White Movie' is an acknowledgment that we overanalyze our relation-ships and foolishly seek the perfection we see in Hollywood movies, thereby having our relationships fall into one of two categories - bliss or something inadequate, in other words, viewing the world as a black and white movie and failing to see all the colors and nuances."

The gentle and beautiful "Leap of Faith" is another strong cut, with Wharen showing his vulnerabilities in an earnestly touching performance. The back end of the CD is almost as captivating as the first half, with powerful standouts such as "Wake Up" and "Let It Go". "Golden Age" is another moving lyric about fatherhood, but it sounds like a demo and doesn't do the song justice.

No Second Troy's "Colors" will be available on iTUNES April 27. Check them out if you like The Fray, Coldplay, or U2.

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

No Second Troy on MySpace.

Review: Gary Hood "Gary Hood and the Last Show Ever" [EP]

Faithful readers know that we are nuts about Andy Goldberg (of The Goldbergs, see review here). He has produced and performed on a new five song EP by friend Gary Hood, entitled "Gary Hood and the Last Show Ever".

Gary Hood is a roadie and guitar tech who has worked with Lou Reed, Sean Lennon, Steve Earle, and - yes - Justin Timberlake. But he has his own musical ambitions and aspirations, playing impromptu acoustic gigs wherever he can while on tour with fellow musicians. Hood's own sound is an eclectic blend of folk, blues, and rock, at times recalling Bob Dylan, Todd Snider, The Band, or Wilco - no Justin Timberlake. A couple of tracks clearly have Goldberg's distinct pop sensibilities in the mix, most evident in the harmony vocals he contributes, which never fail to disappoint. The five songs that grace this EP are pure and organic, usually with harmonica and bouncy bass to make you feel like you're in a roadhouse. My favorite cuts include "Ice Cream" and "Space Age Blues".

"Gary Hood and the Last Show Ever" should be available on iTUNES by April.

Gary Hood on MySpace. Official site.

'50 MUSICIAN MUGSHOTS' (BillBoard)

(from BillBoard) "It's been a busy week for our less law-abiding celebrities. Not only did Lil Wayne finally begin his long-time-coming prison sentence, but D'Angelo got nabbed for soliciting sex from an undercover cop. Sucks for them ... but they're not the only famous faces who've been nabbed by The Man. Whether they're hip-hop gangstas, country crooners or squeaky clean pop tarts, history has proven time and time again that no musician, no matter how famous, is out of reach of the law's long arm.

With that in mind, we decided to look back at 50 of the most memorable musician mugshots. Some stars are dapper, some are demented-looking, most are just damn angry ... but they all fought the law. And the law won."

SEE THE '50 MUSICIAN MUGSHOTS' GALLERY

Review: On The Rise “Dream Zone”

Good AOR is hard to find these days, but the Italian-based Frontiers Records is keeping this flame alive. Specializing in the release of new AOR groups, as well as new releases from classic AOR artists, Frontiers Records fills a unique niche in the music marketplace.

One of the acts on this label that has caught my ear is On The Rise, whose new 2009 CD “Dream Zone” is a musical time machine, taking you back to the days of Survivor, Toto, and Night Ranger. Amazingly, On The Rise is virtually a one-man band! Norwegian Terje Eide writes the songs, sings the lead and backing vocals, plays all guitars, keyboards, and bass. Eide has been active in the music scene since the 80s, getting his start when he was only 16. And while he may be older now, his love of the trademark 80s melodic rock sound has not changed a bit.

“Dream Zone” is the long-awaited sophomore effort for On The Rise, which first took shape 10 years ago. Eide sings his songs with conviction, with lyrical themes that are straight out of the AOR playbook – a handful of love songs, handful of inspirational “don’t give up” anthems, and so on. His vocal tone and musical style reminds me of 80s-era Tommy Shaw.

The 13 tracks provide over 50 minutes of AOR bliss, largely guitar-driven melodic rock with some tasty keyboards and harmonies in all of the right places. The beginning and the end of “Dream Zone” are particularly strong, setting a very high bar that the middle of the record generally fail to meet. The best cuts include the driving opener, “Lifeline”, the peppy “Lost Your Track”, and the very catchy “Why Wait Another Day”. On The Rise is highly recommended for fans of Vertigo, Mecca, and Two Fires.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 6, 10, 12, 13

On The Rise on MySpace. Official site.

Here’s a video for you:

Review: Koot Hoomi "The Dark Side of Hall and Oates"

Koot Hoomi (self-proclaimed Hall and Oates mega-fans) have set out with a vision of not only covering some of their beloved favorite songs, but also, as they put it, "re-imaging the catalog as it might exist in an alternate universe." Their creation, playfully titled, "The Dark Side of Hall and Oates", comfortably lies somewhere between George Harrison and Middle Eastern-infused, dirty, indie folk. The project was largely recorded in living rooms and basements, using cheap instruments and an old-school Tascam 488 analog tape recorder, giving it a entrancing, low-fi allure. In addition to tackling the songs that actually spent some time on the Billboard charts (ie: "Maneater", "Kiss on My List", "Out of Touch"), Koot Hoomi has also reinterpreted a number of deep cuts and b-sides, going all the way back to Daryl Hall and John Oates’ earliest Philly demos.

There's something oddly fascinating about a Hall and Oates tribute album that includes Tuvan throat-singing, sitars, and an the interpretation of songs that feel sort of like Ravi Shankar meets Sufjan Stevens meets Francis Ford Coppola's "Apocalypse Now".

Highlights include their acoustical renditions of "Say It Isn't So", "Maneater", "One On One", and "Back In Love Again" - the understated beauty in these sparse arrangements truly speak to the brilliance in Hall and Oates' songwriting. Koot Hoomi also has some guts - taking liberty to turn "Adult Education" into a Beastie Boys-styled rap is going to seem sacrilegious to some fans. But whether you like these lo-fi and eclectic interpretations or not, one thing is undeniable: you've never heard Hall and Oates songs performed like this before!

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 6, 14

Koot Hoomi on MySpace. Official site. Go here to order.

Review: Jonathan Seet "The End Of The Beginning" [EP]

Canadian Jonathan Seet, one time bassist for Luke Jackson (review here), has released a new CD of arty Brit pop called "The End Of The Beginning". These 8 tracks make for a consistent listen and, along with his previous releases, lend support to his importance as an evolving songwriter.

The core songwriting themes explored on this EP are "redemption, re-invention, and the replenishing of innocence". With a voice somewhere between Dan Wilson (Semisonic) and David Mead, Seet is perfectly suited for sending these soothing melodies into your ears. "If The Last Kiss Made You Cry" is my favorite in the batch, but you are not doing yourself any favors by skipping over the somber title track and the epic "Down By The Bay", which builds slow to a hair-raising climax. "The Lost Week" is also a pleasant track, with acoustic guitars accompanied by keys from the 70s.

Seet will satiate fans of sophisticated pop with this one; those who need more instant gratification may not appreciate it until the third spin or so. Recommended if you like Radiohead, Elbow, or Travis. Note this is a digital only release - available on iTUNES.

Jonathan Seet on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Blanc Faces "Falling from The Moon"

Brothers Robbie and Brian La Blanc are Blanc Faces - they made a stunning impression on the AOR world with their self-titled debut back in 2005. Expectations have been running high for their follow-up release, 2009's "Falling from The Moon" (Frontiers Records).

Blanc Faces is a throwback to the hey day of 80s melodic rock: big hooks, abundant harmonies, and straightforward lyrics that typically say either "I love you" or "You can do it". The brothers La Blanc make no apologies for their dated sound and style because they know it is exactly what their fans want. Fortunately, this is also the kind of music the brothers want to write and perform, so it is a win-win situation for the band and the fans alike. The sheer joy that these guys have while playing this genre is palpable in their music.

The CD begins with a rousing opener called "I Come Alive", which easily could have been on a Rocky soundtrack at one point. I even think the La Blanc brothers must have raided Jim Peterik's keyboard closet for this one. The melodies keep coming with the peppy title track and the driving devotional, "I Swear To You". After a lackluster power ballad break, the boys come back with a couple of pleasant mid-tempo numbers called "It's All About Love" and "Goodbye Summer Goodbye". The mid-tempo pace continues for a couple more tracks, but rock kicks back in with "Like A Believer", and the CD closes strong with the electrifying sound of "I Will" and the epic ballad, "Fly", performed in perfect stereotypical 80s tradition.

Vocally, these guys will knock your socks off. To my ears, the vocals are remarkably like those from Glass Tiger. My favorite cuts include "I Come Alive", "I Swear To You", and "I Will" - these were hard to select, though, given that the CD is an excellent listen from beginning to end. You'll have trouble getting these songs out of your head.

In short, "Falling from The Moon" is just about as good as the debut and is a terrific slice of AOR that fans will want to sink their teeth into. Like its predecessor, the production is immaculate, making these strong songs even more of a thrill to hear. Both CDs by Blanc Faces are simply must-have items for fans of Survivor, Glass Tiger, or Journey.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12

Blanc Faces - more info and CD ordering at Frontiers Records.

Review: Sunrise Highway "Sunrise Highway"

I am going to take a wild guess that the studio Sunrise Highway used to record their self-titled CD is full of windows that let in generous amounts of sunlight. I make this assumption because "Sunrise Highway" just sparkles with sunshine. It radiates a warm, feel-good vibe that makes you feel like you are chillin' under the sun with an ice cold lemonade by your side and no cares in the world.

The Sun gods have been appeased, and Greg Schlotthauer and company have recorded a gem of pop genius. Sunrise Highway sounds remarkably like the Beach Boys for a new generation - breezy riffs, shimmering guitar tones, bouncy piano, and loads of amazing harmonies. It makes for a great mellow listen the whole way through, but standouts for me included "Endless Summer", "Baby Be Good", and "Lonely Guy". If you dig classic pop from the era of the Beach Boys, or if you just want a good spring and summer record to lift your spirits, you cannot miss Sunrise Highway.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 5, 7

Sunrise Highway on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Dashboard Confessional "Alter The Ending"

I must confess: Dashboard Confessional is not normally a band that drives me wild. Yeah, I enjoyed their radio songs, but found many of their previous CDs uneven. However, with each CD they've released, it sounds to me like they move further and further away from the banal indie and alternative rock and closer to a more melodic and memorable sound. And with their 6th CD, "Alter The Ending", the band has finally hit their stride and put out a record that I look forward to hearing time and time again.

I wasn't under this impression after the first track, "Get Me Right", but right after that they launch into a fantastic streak of catchy pop rock tunes that changed my mind about these guys. "Until Morning" and "Everybody Learns From Disaster" are awesome preludes to the monster single, "Belle of the Boulevard" (although I can't get the tappers out of my head when I hear that song - Tap Tap Revenge fans know what I'm talking about here!). The infectious tunes keep coming with the peppy "I Know About You" and title track. Soon you realize these guys were just getting warmed up after they deliver one of the catchiest tracks they've even written, "The Motions", where they tattoo the following into your brain: "If this is chemical, then I am not afraid to be bound to the impulses of science." The record ends on a couple more very strong notes with the infectious "No News Is Bad News" and power ballad, "Water and Bridges".

Some might attribute the victory that is "Alter The Ending" to the masterful producers, Butch Walker and Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne), and no doubt this is partially true. But I believe that after six albums, the guys have matured, refined their songwriting chops, and found their groove. "Alter the Ending" is an example of the magic that happens when all the stars are in alignment.

I received the "Deluxe" edition, which includes a second CD of acoustic renditions of all the tracks on the studio release in the same order. It is a good listen - not just vocal and acoustic guitar like you might expect - the guys spice it up with piano, strings, and percussion. Definitely worth the little bit of extra money.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11

Dashboard Confessional on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Belle of the Boulevard":

Review: Keel, Wig Wam, Jaded Heart

The rise of grunge in the early '90s catalyzed the demise of many beloved (and equally bemoaned) glam 'hairbands'. It was a time of bonehead lyrics, ridiculous guitar solos, and even more ridiculous outfits...but it was also a time of big fat hooks, sticky melodies, and boatloads of harmonies. The songs were carefree rock that in many cases was just plain fun to listen to. Like them or not, their popularity at the time cannot be denied. As most of these million-selling artists were suddenly driven from the Billboard charts and shunned by their record labels, a small label called CMC International stepped up to become the afterlife for hairbands. This allowed a handful of them to continue releasing records through the 90s, but many groups caved to musical fads, attempting to incorporate grunge and alternative rock at the expense of the sugary melodies and easy to understand lyrics that earned them fans in the first place. By the end of the '90s, big hair rock was clearly dead and it seemed to take AOR with it.

So here we are ten years on and we're seeing new labels like Frontiers Records, based in Italy, proudly releasing AOR and glam rock like it was still 1989. This is a real treat for those who miss the days of Slaughter, Poison, and Warrant, and there is a niche of 30- and 40-somethings that will gladly shell over their cash to hear some new blood bring life back to this genre. Frontiers Records champions new bands that have taken up the glam baton as well as "classic" bands that are still alive and kickin'.

I've reviewed a number of Frontiers artists before, including W.E.T., The Murder of My Sweet, Blackwood Creek, Jimi Jamison. Today we're going to cover new ones from Keel, Jaded Heart, and Wig Wam.

KEEL "Streets Of Rock & Roll"


Ron Keel and his entourage is back with a record that sounds like the proper sequel to their breakthrough 1985 release, "The Right To Rock". 25 years later, Keel still delivers the goods with powerhouse twin guitars (from Marc Ferrari and Bryan Jay) and thundering bass and drums (from Geno Arce and Dwain Miller). Ron Keel sounds ready as ever, with his characteristic growl omnipresent throughout the vocals. The boys have updated their sound a bit, but not to the point where it would alienate longtime fans.

"Streets Of Rock & Roll" kicks off with the title track, one of the strongest in the new bunch of 12 arena-ready rockers. Guitars come at you from all directions, swirling around one of the most infectious choruses Keel has ever written. Despite the slump to bonehead lyrics, "Push and Pull" is an enjoyable slice of sleaze rock in the finest late '80s tradition. In stark contrast, the album gets a bit more serious with the excellent power ballad, "Does Anybody Believe". The record ends particularly strong with a great pair in "Hold Steady" and "Live". "Live" is arguably the catchiest tune in the dozen, with riffs reminding me a bit of White Lion's "Wait", and has become my personal favorite - this one would have been all over the radio back in the day. In short, I am finding "Streets of Rock and Roll" to be one of the best releases Keel has ever done.

Don't miss this one if you are a fan of Motley Crue, Kiss, or W.A.S.P.

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

Incidentally, Frontiers Records commemorated the 25th anniversary of Keel's “The Right To Rock" with a "25th Anniversary Edition" - don't miss that too!

Keel on MySpace. Official site.

JADED HEART "Perfect Insanity"


The German band Jaded Heart gravitates more towards the true heavy metal end of the spectrum, but they compromise on the melodies. No one can knock the musicianship, but it often feels like they go out of their way to avoid writing a good hook. So it probably comes as no surprise to many of you that I just couldn't get into this one as much. "Perfect Insanity" works well when you need to get your blood pumping, though. These guys have been going strong since 1990 and they have clearly mastered their craft. I would recommend this one for fans of heavier and less melodic bands like Queensrÿche, Dokken, or Heaven and Hell. Fans of classic metal such as Judas Priest will also appreciate Jaded Heart.

Jaded Heart on MySpace. Official site.

WIG WAM "Non Stop Rock & Roll"


I honestly didn't know what to expect from this band - from Norway, they kind of look like a nightmarish cross between Marilyn Manson, Brad Paisley, and Enuff Z'Nuff:



As if that weren't 'enuff', they call themselves Glam (vocals), Teeny (guitars), Flash (bass), and Sporty (drums)! But looks and goofy nicknames aside, these guys sound as glam as glam can get, so if you crave the long lost days of fun-filled rock and roll with huge juicy hooks and radio-friendly riffs, Wig Wam is gonna make you grin like a kid in a bubblegum candy store. In the context of this genre, Wig Wam does a superb job. Glam (the singer) sounds a bit like Vince Neil and CJ Snare (Firehouse). You'll almost want to chuckle with nostalgia at the opening gang chorus of "Do Ya Wanna Taste It". The party is just beginning, and if track 1 failed to move you, the thumping "Walls Come Down" will surely lift you out of your chair. "Wild One" and "C'mon Everybody" represent another one-two punch of melodic rock perfect for rocking your joint. "C'mon Everybody" features a riff reminiscent of Motley Crue's hit "Dr. Feelgood", and the groove won't let you go. "From Here" is the power ballad of choice on this CD. "All You Wanted" and "Rocket Through My Heart" are a couple more highlights from this very impressive set of sugar sweet hard rock tunes.

I would argue that if anyone could initiate a resurgence of '80s pop metal, Wig Wam is up to the task. Wig Wam will appeal to fans of Poison, Warrant, and Ratt. Unbelievably catchy, upbeat, and ready to party, Wig Wam is a winner for good ol' glam and roll.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10

Wig Wam on MySpace. Official site.

Interview: Crash Kings

My interview with Crash Kings - now on tour with Jet - is now posted at Rock and Roll Report. Go check it out.

See my review of Crash Kings new CD here.

Review: W.E.T. “W.E.T.”

W.E.T. is a new supergroup, the acronym standing for Work of Art (Robert Sall), Eclipse (Erik Martensson), and Talisman (Jeff Scott Soto). W.E.T. is perhaps the lamest band name since M.S.G., but we won’t hold that against them when weighing in on their music.

The self-titled debut album from this trio of AOR superstars delivers exactly what you'd expect - slick, high-gloss melodic rock. What separates this one from the pack is the extraordinary combination of talent on board - the pristine vocals of Jeff Scott Soto sound even more amazing when backed by musicians of this high caliber. These guys have an excellent chemistry and, best of all, they brought some very memorable songs to the studio that follow the classic AOR formula - driving verses, an arena-ready chorus, and astonishing guitar solos.

The hi-octane crunch in the meaty opener, "Invincible", effectively foreshadows the melodic rock goodness that is to follow. The guys come out swinging, serving up additional crowd pleasers like "One Love" and "Brothers In Arms". "Comes Down Like Rain" is an early favorite for the best power ballad on the record, but I prefer the spectacular "One Day At A Time". Additional highlights include the awesome mid-tempo rocker "I'll Be There" and "My Everything".

If you enjoy the other bands these three artists have graced, there is no doubt in my mind that you will want this debut. W.E.T. is also going to give fans who love Journey, Pride of Lions, and Giant something to smile about.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 11, 12

W.E.T. on MySpace.

Check out the video for "One Love":

Cover tune catastrophe: When A Man Loves A Woman

In this ongoing series, I will uncover some of the WORST cover tunes ever recorded. We’ve all encountered that unsettling feeling upon hearing a beloved song redone by another artist. What were they thinking? How dare they try to redo this song! While we are powerless to prevent these clowns from trashing the originals, we can call them out on it.


Michael Bolton – “When A Man Loves A Woman” (Percy Sledge)

When a man loves a woman, is he supposed to appeal to her as if he is in the middle of a proctology exam that has gone horribly wrong? When a man loves a woman, is he to have more fabulous hair than she? When a man loves a woman, is the best way to her heart to utterly ruin classic R&B? Check out this video of his live duet with Percy Sledge: the side by side comparison makes my point and then some.

Review: Adam Ezra Group "View From the Root"

The Adam Ezra Group is an organic roots rock band creating quite the buzz in Boston and beyond. They've opened for John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Cracker, and more, building a steady following along the way. After listening to their first release, "View From the Root", I can happily add my name to this following.

"View From the Root" contains a bounty of tracks - 17 in all - but it feels like a split record to me. The first half strikes me as the proper studio release, but the latter half feels more like a rarities and outtakes disc. While some of the more experimental or stripped down tracks on the tail end of the CD have their charm, I think that more often than not I'm going to stop the CD at track 8. One cool experience, however, was the genuine coffeehouse feel of "She's Just A Girl", recorded live and preceded by a spoken word intro.

So let's get to the highlights. The best song for me is the opener, "Katie", a sweet and innocent appeal that finds the band at their synergistic best. This one is followed by a string of excellent root rock tunes that maintain a contagious sense of melody and leave you feeling upbeat. "Half A Hero" and "Vision" will make you move and "Have We Met" and "Another Sunshine" will make you groove. Another thing I like about Adam Ezra Group is that they are lyrically smart, whether it be through the use of clever word play to jazz up mundane love songs or their bold dives into deeper subject matter (check out "Basement Song"). Numerous times on the dics Adam seems to be writing vocal checks he just can't cash, which might be helped in the future if the band works more effective harmonies into the mix. But all in all, "View From the Root" is a terrific debut from a smart band with great chops and a bright future.

I recommend the Adam Ezra Group if you like Glen Phillips, Edwin McCain, or Todd Snider.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8

Adam Ezra Group on MySpace. Official site.

You Were Robbed - Athenaeum

"You Were Robbed" features artists and bands that should have gotten much more recognition and fame than they did. Check them out now...better late than never!

Athenaeum. Say what? ATH-A-NEE-UM. In Latin, it is a school in ancient Rome for the study of arts. The strange name is probably one reason this fantastic band never took off...DJs were too embarrassed they would mispronounce it!

Athenaeum formed in Greensboro, North Carolina about 20 years ago, pulling off their first EP in 1995, known simply as the "Green Album". Some of these songs made their way to the band's first major label release, 1998's "Radiance". They had immediate success with the radio-friendly tune "What I Didn't Know", but never matched it despite the record being full of additional melodic rock gems. Their self-titled follow up was an even bigger disappointment at radio. "Hourglass" was their final album, released in 2002 - while a compilation of rare and unreleased material, it plays like another ace studio album.

The band uses intricate harmonies and sophisticated songwriting to decorate the intelligent lyrics, and their melodies stick with you for days on end. They should have been huge. Maybe it was the name. Maybe some people couldn't get used to the deep vocal tone of Mark Kano, or maybe the second record being released the week after 9/11 had something to do with it. Whatever the reasons, it isn't too late to discover Athenaeum's wonderful brand of powerful pop rock.

Mark Kano has recently teamed up with Gavin MacKillop (who produced "Radiance") once again, and the result was a stunning solo EP called "Walking on Broadway". Check out our review of it here. Don't allow Mark Kano to be robbed again!

Fans of Toad the Wet Sprocket, Gin Blossoms, and Crash Test Dummies - if you've overlooked Athenaeum, you are missing out on a new favorite.

Mark Kano on MySpace. Official site.

Athenaeum

Check out this brilliant acoustic version of their one and only hit, "What I Didn't Know":

Review: Andrew Anderson "As Long As This Thing's Flyin'"

Mix in a voice like Freedy Johnston, an attitude like Johnny Cash, and the raw sting of Social Distortion, and you get a close approximation of Andrew Anderson. It is easy to see why Mike Herrera (frontman for MxPx and Tumbledown - the latter reviewed here) took such an interest in this unique singer/songwriter from Idaho (now in Austin).

Anderson's latest, "As Long As This Thing's Flyin'", is a truly engaging piece of art. While he will dazzle you with his impeccable fingerpicking on acoustic guitar and mandolin, it is the classic punk rock arrangements and cynical tone that make each song a compelling listen. Anderson is impressively versatile with his voice - he can be bold and aggressive when he has to be, but he can also be gentle and sincere. He puts in the effort to make the voice and the music match the message in each song. Best of all, Anderson is not immune to writing a memorable melody and he doesn't clunk up his songs with throwaway lyrics.

The opening track, "Once Met A Girl" embodies all this artist is capable of, blending country, bluegrass, folk, pop, and punk to create a distinctive sound he can call his own. Another highlight, "Necessary Casualties" (video featured below), bemoans the political system that is impotent to break viscous cycles. "Damn It Man", my favorite track in the bunch, is the perfect 'feeling sorry for myself' anthem. "Hell On Earth" sounds like a lost track by a young Johnny Cash. The title track closes the album, a contemplative ballad with a surprise assortment of piano, acoustic guitar, and strings, that should leave you with chills.

Anderson aspires to be the next Hank Williams. Whether Hank was your cup of tea or not, I recommend you check out the refreshing and engaging sound of Andrew Anderson.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 14

Andrew Anderson on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video for "Necessary Casualties":

Review: The Brigadier "The Edge of Spring" [EP]

Our good friend The Brigadier, a UK-based pop singer/songwriter also known as Matt Williams, is back with yet another EP release. If anything, The Brigadier once again cements a reputation as being one of the most prolific songwriters around. You can read our past reviews of some of his releases here.

Instead of charging out of the gate with an infectious rocker, this time around The Brigadier sets a more sober stage with the gentle acoustic opener, "Song For A New Year". His strumming is pleasant and voice like an old familiar friend. The EP continues to build on the seasonal theme, as suggested by the title, and is very effective at conveying that winter blues feeling while keeping hope for a brighter spring. Two timely offerings include "Valentine's Day" and "February", which then melt into the atmospheric "The Last Day of Winter" and a rewarding closer, "She Brings The Spring". The brief quirky instrumental "Saint David's Day" connects the two periods. Devout fans of The Brigadier will no doubt enjoy this EP, but I do not find myself connecting with it as immediately as his preceding efforts. My favorites include "Song For A New Year" and "She Brings The Spring", but the tracks in-between just left me cold.

This EP is only available as a digital download - you can grab it at the official web site below.

The Brigadier on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Gavin Guss "Mercury Mine"

Whether you realize it or not, if you are a devout fan of modern power pop, you've already heard Gavin Guss in some way, shape, or form. Gavin Guss has been active in the Seattle power pop scene for years, as producer of the fantastic Super Deluxe, and as front man for TubeTop and The Tycoons. He's toured with Nada Surf, and provided piano accompaniment for Jon Auer (Posies), Fountains of Wayne, and Harvey Danger.

Six long years in the making, Guss has released "Mercury Mine", his first solo record. Featuring an amazing line up of guest performances from Chris Ballew (Presidents of the United States of America), Brian Young (Fountains of Wayne), and Phil Hurley (Gigolo Aunts), "Mercury Mine" is simply a power pop lover's dream. Name dropping aside, Guss holds his own and more by bringing a healthy number of tuneful songs to the table.

The record, which clocks in just over 30 minutes, is loaded with short and sweet pop songs that are very easy on the ears. Vocally and musically, Guss reminds me a lot of Mike Viola, or David Gray (Idle Wilds). The lyrics are witty and often amusing, matched well to the mood of the music. The record kicks things off with what has become my favorite track, "X", a peppy song with a perfect mix of acoustic and electric guitar, augmented with plenty of juicy harmonies. The catchy songs keep rolling along with the title track, "Oasis", and "Lifeboat" providing some of the finest 12 minutes of classic power pop I've heard in a while. The record sags a bit after this until "Gato Negro" and the wonderful "Bud". Fans of any of the aforementioned bands will certainly want to take note of this one.

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

Gavin Guss on MySpace. Official site.

Free mp3: Sister Hazel "20 in '10"

Wow! This is amazing...Amazon is offering 20 of Sister Hazel's greatest hits from their more recent albums on a collection called "20 in '10"...FOR FREE!

See our review for Sister Hazel's latest studio effort, "Release".

Don't miss it! Click here to download.

Review: Blackwood Creek "Blackwood Creek"

Kip Winger (of "She's Only Seventeen" fame) has been a busy boy. Coming off an active solo career of more experimental and progressive music, he recently reunited with his old Winger bandmates to record two new albums. Now he's quietly released a new CD with another reunion of sorts, this one with his brother Nate Winger and childhood friend Peter Fletcher. This band is Blackwood Creek, Kip's pre-Winger band.

Kip Winger takes older age in stride - for instance, he changed the lyrics on a recent acoustic version of "Seventeen" to "She's only 35". With Blackwood Creek, he and the lads are out to prove they can still rock out like they did when they were kids. In fact, they seem to go out of their way to prove they've not lost that unruly inner child - they use "ass" in the lyrics, drop an f-bomb, and start the inane "Love Inspector" with a loud belch.

But to be fair, their new self-titled CD has way more pros than cons. I've not been overly impressed with the modern Winger material ("Karma" was pretty good, though) and his solo stuff bores me to tears. But Blackwood Creek is a true return to Kip Winger's melodic rock roots. There are some winning melodies and harmonies on this record, and the most effective blend of acoustic and electric guitars since "Pull". With few exceptions, these new songs take the best of his solo work (the lyrics and interesting chord progressions) and plop it into the best of his past work (catchy unadulterated rock).

Blackwood Creek blasts off with a thunderous opener, "Out In Outer Space", a clear attention-getter. Next up is my favorite track, the instantly likable AOR dream, "Nothing But The Sun". The band also does a more than respectable job on a few acoustic-driven, dark power ballads like "After Your Heart". "Albatross" comes close to Kip Winger's solo material, but this song has a memorable hook that makes you want to hear it more than once. "Your Revolution" and "Joy Ride" are also a kick to listen to. Overall, Blackwood Creek is a success - the guys are clearly having fun, they have a terrific chemistry, and most importantly, most of the songs are downright infectious.

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

Blackwood Creek on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Murder of My Sweet "Divanity"

Take some of that trademark Swedish rock and mix in some goth and you have The Murder of My Sweet (TMOMS). The band's moniker is inspired by the 1944 movie “Murder, My Sweet". TMOMS has just released their ambitious debut album on Frontiers Records entitled "Divanity". Regarding the album title the band states, "The name 'Divanity' is the bands own expression of diva, divine and vanity - all of them being essential ingredients in their debut album."

There are a lot of things to admire about TMOMS, but two attributes really stand out to make them unique. One, they are a female-fronted symphonic rock band. Two, they infuse a high level of dark drama in their music. These characteristics are likely to draw comparisons to Evanescence, but TMOMS has a stronger proclivity for melody.

A strong suit of the band is the dazzling vocal talent of Angelica Rylin, whose well-controlled, firm voice plays well with theatrical sound of TMOMS. She is backed by a tight and powerful band that uses meaty guitar riffs, explosive drums, and lots and lots of keyboards. It can be argued that the keyboards are a bit over the top in numerous places on the record, and the overuse of the orchestral stab gets old really fast. The persistent use of the same tones and styles throughout the record make many of the songs sound too much alike.

Underneath the high gloss and glitz of the production lies some very good melodic rock. My favorite cuts include "No Evil", "Kiss of Death", "Tonight" and "Destiny" - sample these and you'll have a good sense as to what the rest of "Divanity" is like and what TMOMS is all about. I am willing to bet you haven't heard anything quite like it!

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

The Murder of My Sweet on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a trailer for the band:

Marc Robillard "So Much More" - FREE MP3

We have obtained permission to make "So Much More" by Marc Robillard available to you FOR FREE as a legal mp3 download. So get to it - click here. "So Much More" is a new song currently being featured in the popular Sunchips commercials.

Read our review of Robillard's 2005 EP right here.

Review: Marc Robillard "Paper Airplanes" [EP]

Marc Robillard, a singer/songwriter from Canada now based in L.A., has a new reason to like Sunchips - they have recently used one of his new songs, "So Much More" in their TV ads (see it here). This little organic, laid back tune is helping his previous 2005 EP release, "Paper Airplanes" take flight once again.

The six songs on "Paper Airplanes" portray an artist focused on earnest lyrics and soft but sweet melodies. Fans who love the slower, somber soft pop and folk so popular in the coffeehouses are going to embrace Marc Robillard the most. His voice is deep and warm, floating up enough at times to bring Travis or Coldplay to mind. Actually, he has a lot in common with today's British soft pop. What strikes me is how he is able to maintain an air of hope despite the rather sullen tone in most of his music. Check out "The Pair" and "Blown Away".

Marc Robillard is a safe bet if you like Jack Johnson, Aqualung, or Damien Rice. Overall, a little too sleepy for me, but nice to play when you need a lullaby or want to watch an empty bag of Sunchips degrade. His new sophomore record should be coming out sometime this year. Until then, why not see if "Paper Airplanes" will hold you over?

Marc Robillard on MySpace. Official site.

Get "Paper Airplanes". Get "So Much More"

Check out the video for "Butterscotch High":

Marc Robillard - Butterscotch High

Marc Robillard | MySpace Music Videos

Review: Crash Kings "Crash Kings"

Brothers Tony (lead vocalist and keyboardist) and Mike Beliveau (bass) are the driving force behind the rising rock band called Crash Kings. The Crash Kings burst into your ears with a hard-hitting sound that is both modern and retro, with guitar tones that will shake you...wait, what's this? There is no guitar? No way! How can they get this sound without guitar?

Remarkably, this trio (the brothers are joined by drummer Jason Morris) can pull off a big rock record with only keys, bass, and drums. How do they do this? "With tube overdrive and multiple amps Mike’s bass brings heaviness to the band’s sound. On top of that Tony plays a clavinet (a keyboard with guitar strings), which has been customized with a large whammy bar allowing him to bend notes like a guitar producing an entirely new sound". I understand your skepticism - but just listen to Tony Beliveau’s soaring vocals and the powerful, driving rhythm section and you won't even realize you are rocking out to a band that doesn't use guitar!

The Crash Kings previously opened for Chris Cornell, Stone Temple Pilots, The Bravery, and Rooney. They are currently on tour with Jet, which is a logical match-up as many of their tunes have a retro feel like Jet. But the Crash Kings have a diverse sound, coming close to O.A.R. or Safetysuit at times, or approaching the piano rock of Ben Folds or Josh Fix with a smattering of Queen now and then. If you like any of the aforementioned artists, there is a treasure for you to uncover in the self-titled debut by Crash Kings.

What makes this record so enjoyable does not really relate to the band's unique attributes such as the fact that the founders are brothers who have boldly omitted guitar from their sound spectrum. Nope, what makes this record special are the memorable melodies. These guys know how to write a hook in the chorus and flank it with compelling verses - and their harmonies aren't too shabby either. The key standouts include the hip opener, "Mountain Man", the infectious "1985" (not a Bowling For Soup cover), the gorgeous "Raincoat", and hugely catchy "My Love". Crash Kings are ready to rule your musical world and, despite being a trio, they sound like a full house.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10

Check out my interview with Crash Kings at Rock and Roll Report!

Crash Kings on MySpace. Official site.

Check out some videos:

Review: Baby Scream "Identity Theft" [EP]

Baby Scream was formed in 2001 by Juan Mazzola in Argentina, although currently they are based in London. Sometimes Baby Scream is a solo project, sometimes an acoustic duo with Cristian Basualdo, and sometimes a full-blown electric act. By and large, "Identity Theft" focuses on the more stripped down, acoustic side of Baby Scream.

Mazzola's influences come out front and center: there is clear love for John Lennon, Teenage Fanclub, Radiohead, and Britpop. Similar to its predecessor, "Ups and Downs", "Identity Theft" is a pretty easygoing affair. The seven songs on this EP won't necessarily put you to sleep, but they aren't going to jolt you out of your chair either. They are short and sweet, but offer little to stand out in the crowd. Mazzola's voice is capable, and his breathy delivery works well against the acoustic guitars and other sparse instrumentation. If you dig relaxing, soft pop with subtle melodies, Baby Scream has its charms.

I recommended Baby Scream if you enjoy Julian Lennon, Michael Penn, or the acoustic side of Teenage Fanclub.

Baby Scream on MySpace. Official site.

Cover tune catastrophe: I Want To Rock And Roll All Night

In this ongoing series, I will uncover some of the WORST cover tunes ever recorded. We’ve all encountered that unsettling feeling upon hearing a beloved song redone by another artist. What were they thinking? How dare they try to redo this song! While we are powerless to prevent these clowns from trashing the originals, we can call them out on it.


Toad the Wet Sprocket – “I Want To Rock And Roll All Night” (Kiss)

For the record, Toad the Wet Sprocket is one of my favorite bands of all time…but what were they thinking when they did a slow-as-the postal-service acoustic cover of the greatest rock and roll anthem of all time? They play and sing this Kiss classic as if they were hung-over. “You drive us wild, we’ll drive you crazy” never sounded more insincere.



So what do you think is one of the worst cover tunes? Leave a comment and tell us - if it is bad enough, we might just write it up!

Review: Ellis Paul "The Day After Everything Changed"

"The Day After Everything Changed" (Black Wolf Records) is the latest from singer/songwriter Ellis Paul, a man who has made a respectable mark in music already with 14 Boston Music Awards and performances with Patty Griffin, John Mayer, Arlo Guthrie, and more. Paul honed his talents in Boston and amassed an impressive fan base that helps fund his musical career and recordings. Paul straddles the ever-blurring line between pop country and soft rock, a very entertaining (and profitable) place to be. His songs tell stories in the style of Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, and his lyrics touch upon subjects that all of us can relate to.

With 15 new songs, "The Day After Everything Changed" clocks in at over an hour - plenty of musical bang for your buck. The imagery Paul paints with his lyrics is as brilliant and crisp as the artwork on his CD. According to Paul, the songs on the album are "about people who are at a crossroads in their life. I want to hear about people's joys and woes and apply them to my own. You can't fake real life stories."

Instrumentally, the CD is gorgeous - a pleasing mix of acoustic and electric guitar, piano, and some prominent banjo now and then. Paul's voice has a seasoned rasp that gives these songs a sincere edge. The CD is also very consistent, providing a cohesive listen that is perfect for moods of relaxation or reflection. Five songs were co-written by Kristian Bush of renowned pop country act Sugarland, so fans of Sugarland take note. My favorites among the bunch include the jubilant opener, "Annalee", the tender "Rose Tattoo", and infectious title track. There are some other notable cuts, but overall the CD comes across as pleasant and innocuous background music. I really wanted to fall in love with more of these songs, but even a few spins more did not generate added enthusiasm. For fans of Sugarland, Keith Urban, and Will Hoge.

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

Ellis Paul on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "The Day After Everything Changed":

Fulton Read "Synchronize" - free mp3

Fulton Read’s newest EP “Synchronize” is done and ready for you to download FOR FREE! That's right...FREE!

You can read some of our reviews of Fulton Read here.

Their latest, "Synchronize", can be downloaded FREE at their web site.

More: they just posted new videos of their acclaimed “Fulton Read in 3D” shows on their blog; their SXSW performances in March; their upcoming premiere of the webisode series “WebCamJams” featuring live jams, exclusive performances, guest appearances and interviews...go check it out.

Review: Jonah Matranga and Kevin Seconds

Jonah Matranga and Kevin Seconds released a split 7inch vinyl through Canada’s Blacktop Records on December 22, 2009. The vinyl features four brand new previously unreleased songs including "I’ve Always Wanted To Write A Song Commanding People To Dance!" and "Daylight" by Matranga and "Grip On Yr Own" and "Life Unknown" by Seconds. It is a limited pressing of only 1000 hand-numbered copies, available online at blacktoprecords.ca and interpunk.com.

In 2007 the Canadian-based record label released Jonah Matranga’s full-length debut titled "And" (reviewed here). Kevin Seconds is known for his role as the frontman of the hardcore punk band 7seconds. Their split record is quite a departure and will probably surprise fans.

The second of the Matranga tracks is the best of the bunch, and closest to what we've come to expect from him - "Daylight" is a gentle and sparse acoustic affair, highlighting Matranga's vocals and skill at creating a compelling piece with so little. However, "I’ve Always Wanted To Write A Song Commanding People To Dance!" is wretched, just like any other dance song using fake drums and autotune. While you can admire a guy who takes risks as an artist, I can honestly say that I never want to hear this song again. The two tracks by Seconds are acoustic folk, near bluegrass, and not all that memorable for me. I recommend this release only for the most dedicated fans or collectors.

Jonah Matranga on MySpace. Official site.

Kevin Seconds on MySpace. Official site.

Review: The Crawpuppies "World's Much Bigger"

Creeping out of Hobort, IN, The Crawpuppies have completed an invasion of Chicago and now would like to get their infectious melodies into your town.

The Crawpuppies have an authentic sound that leads you to believe they put on a tremendously entertaining live show. Fortunately, that spirit is nicely captured on their latest CD, "World's Much Bigger". The touch of rasp and bite in the vocals works well whether its singing to a bar band rocker like the title track, or a bluesy ballad like "We", or a gentle and delicate number like "My Wife". Chad Clifford (vocals, guitar) is backed by a fine line up of talented musicians: Aaron "Hacksaw" Hedges (bass, vocals), Chris Karp (drums, vocals), and Mike Curtis (lead guitar, vocals). Yes, you read right - everyone in the band sings, and they've got some splendid harmonies to show for it.

The Crawpuppies tell modern day folk stories through their songs, which are best described as straight-up pop rock and powerpop. There are several deviations thrown in that keeps all the songs from sounding too much alike (for example, the bossa nova feel of "Here We Go Again" and the folksy "Some Divine"). Overall, there are lots of sunny melodies and upbeat treats on this 14-track opus to satisfy readers of this blog. Standouts for me include "Owe It All To You", "Mental Demons", "The Way", and "I Wanna Know". Recommended for fans of Venice, Hootie and the Blowfish, and Del Amitri.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 4, 5, 7, 10, 12

The Crawpuppies on MySpace. Official site. Get it.

Review: Heavy Glow "The Filth And The Fury" [EP]

I don't think I have heard any other band capture the classic sound of 60s/70s guitar rock as effectively as Heavy Glow. The band is: Jared Mullins (Vocals & Guitar), Joe Brooks (Bass), and Dan Kurtz (Drums). This trio rocks it like it's 1969.

Their new 7 track (counting the two unlisted bonus tracks) EP, "The Filth And The Fury", will transport you to a bygone era. Heavy Glow has mastered the tones and styles that dominated the crunchy and fuzzy psychedelic sounds that permeated freedom rock. Combined with the smoky soul of the vocals supplied by Jared Mullins, you have a win-win situation. The retro vibe is so remarkably good that someone who didn't know better would easily be fooled if I told them "The Filth And The Fury" was recorded in 1969.

My favorites from this EP include the sizzling opener, "I Almost Prayed", the seductive "Love Ghost", and catchy "Bourgeois Baby". The band already has a large following in San Diego, but this EP should help them expand that circle of love. Heavy Glow will light up the night for fans of Hendrix, Cream, The Doors, and early Rolling Stones.

Heavy Glow on MySpace. Official site.

Free mp3: Research Turtles

This news just in from Research Turtles (see our review of their record here).

"The Research Turtles new website was launched yesterday: click here

For the time being, we are giving away free downloads of our new CD."

Review: The Great Affairs "The Great Affairs"

Denny Smith (formerly of Former) is back with a new band and new sound called The Great Affairs. Joining him are Patrick Miller on the guitars, Matt Andersen on the bass, and Tim Good on the drums. This one marks a departure for Smith, who cut his teeth with the sadly underrated modern rock outfit Former, whose 2008 CD "...And Nothing But The Truth" was a thrilling ride down the melodic rock roller coaster.

The Great Affairs play more in the neighborhood of Tom Petty, Wilco, and The Jayhawks - perhaps influenced in part from Smith's relocation to Nashville. The sound is earnest and organic, pleasant and mellow - not unlike the new one from Black Crowes. Smith retains the wit in his lyrics, which remind me of the subtle lyrical genius of Paul Westerburg at times, and his vocals are just as nicely suited with alt-country as they were with his more commercialized big rock sound.

Highlights include the quietly infectious "Dodge", the Southern rock flavored "Dear John", and the sparkling "Isn't She Gold". "The Great Affairs" takes a few spins to settle in, but once you get into bed with it you won't regret it.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 11

The Great Affairs on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Gills and Wings "Gills and Wings" [EP]

Gills and Wings - sounds like the title of a lecture in an Evolutionary Biology course. But this Gills and Wings is a "theatrical pop rock quintet" hoping to soar to great heights with their new self-titled, five track EP. You may have heard some of their stuff on MTV’s The Real World, but for most of you this will be your first taste of Gills and Wings.

It doesn't take too long into this EP before you realize that the guys in this band are loaded to the gills with talent. Everything from the musicianship to the vocals to the lyrics just screams "we got it and we know it". The band is: Danny Reyes (vocals), Santiago De La Fuente (vocals, piano), Alex McCallum (guitar), Matt Hulcher (bass), and Andrew Hackett (drums). These boys have an excellent chemistry, making it sound easy to whip up majestic melodies around their cogent lyrical themes. Reyes has one of those voices that gracefully glides into falsetto and back again, yet retains enough of a rock edge to earn broad appeal.

My favorite tracks in this set are the first two tunes, the brilliant "Rebirth Of A Nation" and "Catastrophe". Gills and Wings take the best of Keane and Mêlée, mix in a little Queen, and give us a fresh sound that is compelling and full of intrigue.

Gills and Wings on MySpace. Official site.

Free mp3 - Still Standing "Blister in the Sun"

Awesome news!

We got permission to post the new single from Still Standing (see review and interview). It is a rockin' cover of "Blister in the Song", first heard on the 1983 debut record by the Violent Femmes.

DOWNLOAD THE TRACK HERE

Review: Starfire Band "Livin' In The City"

You never know what you are going to get track to track from Detroit's Starfire Band. Singer and songwriter Gary Niemenski classifies the band's music as classic pop rock or power pop. Their latest, "Livin' In The City", certainly has that at its core, but a whole lot more too. You get a little Steve Winwood vibe from the groovy opening title track, some psychedelic swirl on "Blue Rain", and some retro rock a la The Byrds on "Heartaches Of Love" and Beach Boys on "Little One". To hear the straight up pop rock, check out tracks like "Love Is Real", "Feel The Sun", and "Ready".

Starfire Band produced the first CD in 2006 ("Blast Off"). They've been making some good strides ever since. In July 2007, Starfire Band was selected as a finalist for the Detroit News Sonic Summer Battle of the Bands. "Livin' In The City" should keep their positive momentum going.

Starfire Band offers a little something for everyone, but will largely appeal to those of you who are a bit more 'seasoned' and like a CD with some diverse musical turns. "Livin' In The City" boasts plenty of melodic grooves, tasteful harmonies, and a bright, sunny feel overall. My favorites off this one include "Heartaches Of Love", "Little One", and "Thank You".

iPOD-worthy: 3, 5, 6, 7, 10

Starfire Band on MySpace. Official site.

Interview: Still Standing

Check out my interview with Still Standing over at Rock and Roll Report now!

The review of their yet-to-be-released record, "Black and White" can be found here or here.