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.

Review: Brian Mackey "Brian Mackey (Red CD)" [EP]

Fans of the lighter side of rock and powerpop will thoroughly enjoy Brian Mackey. His vocals and songwriting style are very reminiscent of James Blunt, but perhaps a bit more melodic. His new "Red EP" features four tracks, beginning with the mellow but lovely "Painted Red". This is followed by "Come Out of the House", a more upbeat but just as catchy love song, showcasing more of his infectious harmonies. "Patty Brown" is not a bad song, but wasn't one worth writing home about to me. The fun closer, "Radio", is essentially a tribute to the genre he loves and endeavors to recapture...radio-friendly 80s powerpop. He highlights names like Cheap Trick and Joan Jett while grimacing at Michael Jackson and Oingo Biongo - so if you share this musical taste, Brian Mackey is going to bring back some memories for you. "Radio" could easily be our theme song here at BMF!

Brian Mackey on MySpace. Official site. Get some.

Cover tune catastrophe: One

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.

Filter – “One” (Harry Nilsson)

This song was originally written by Nilsson in 1968, but the best known version is the stupendous ‘one’ by Three Dog Night recorded ‘one’ year later. Three decades later the song had a sudden revival. This horrifying cover of “One” by the alternative rock band Filter appeared on the soundtrack to the “X-files” movie in 1998. Also in the 90s, Aimee Mann recorded it for a Nilsson tribute album (her version is much better, though!)



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: Rockburn [EP demo]

I don't get demo CDs from Scotland that often, but now I have a reason to get excited whenever I see them in the mail. These four Scottish lads comprising Rockburn jolted me right out of my seat with a classic sound and spirit that captures the best of 70s rock while still managing to have a modern edge. Only three tracks on the demo: "Night On Fire", "Wishing Well (Free)", and "The Last Stop" - each one is dynamic and bursting with catchy riffs and thumping bass. It was great to hear a band that remembers to crank up the low end (but don't interpret that as a license to crank it up any further, gents!).

"Night On Fire" kicks in with a thick, ear-shredding riff and will soon be the song you'll want to play while getting ready to hit the town. "Wishing Well (Free)" continues the feel-good party vibe with a driving, booming bass that reminds me of that distinctive early Survivor sound - you know, before Peterik went nuts with all the keyboards. Beginning with some great acoustic guitar, "The Last Stop" showcases their diverse musical palate and instincts to write a memorable melody.

Stephen Baxter's vocals may be the limiting factor in this band achieving wider appeal. Don't get me wrong - to me, they are well-suited for what Rockburn does, but for others his tone is going to be an acquired taste. I am very excited to hear more of what this band can do. If you like Jet, The Flamin' Groovies, or The Fags, check out Rockburn.

Rockburn on MySpace. Official site.

Check out some Rockburn:

Review: Vertical Horizon "Burning the Days"

After a near 6 year break, Vertical Horizon has quietly crept back with a new CD entitled, "Burning the Days". The record picks up right where "Go" left off, serving up light rock with a punch, made more interesting thanks to the signature delivery of capable vocalist Matt Scannell.

Vertical Horizon gets a little help from friends on this offering. Neil Peart (Rush drummer) lends a hand on "Save Me From Myself", "Welcome To The Bottom", and "Even Now", which he also co-wrote. Richard Marx tickles the ivories on the schmaltzy ballad, "Here", a song that would sound right at home on one of his recent CDs. Marx also lends a hand producing some of Scannell's vocals. In case you missed it, Marx and Scannell have been quite the collaborators recently; Scannell helped Marx remember what it is like to rock on his CD "Emotional Remains" (see review here).

Fans of the last two Vertical Horizon records should delight in "Burning the Days". Nothing is as intensely radio-friendly as their hits "Everything You Want" or "You're a God" - it takes a couple spins, but great rewards await as the hooks begin to reveal themselves. Like many of Scannell's songs, the verses can be a bit quiet and mundane, but he more than makes up for that with a soaring and memorable chorus. No song really races past mid-tempo, so listening to the album all the way through can be a chore, especially towards the end where the songs get significantly longer but less interesting. But in isolation, many of these songs are terrific, and to hear Scannell's voice back in action is a real treat. Highlights for me include "All Is Said and Done", "The Lucky One", "The Middle Ground", and "Carrying On".

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

Vertical Horizon on MySpace. Official site.

You Were Robbed - Amanda Marshall

"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!


While quite famous in her native Canada, Amanda Marshall has not come close to reaching similar heights here in the US. Marshall was 'discovered' by another famous Canadian musician, the late great Jeff Healey. Her self-titled debut album appeared in 1995, pleasing the ears of many of our friends up North. Marshall has an astonishing voice that could stop traffic - it is soulful, but with a raspy rock edge. She delivers every song with sincere conviction and gravitates to those with memorable melodies. Her debut has a great mix of acoustic guitar and piano, perked up with some electric guitar for an extra punch every now and then. Just listen to tracks like "Let It Rain", "Birmingham", and "Sitting On Top Of The World".

Her 1999 sophomore effort, "Tuesday's Child" was almost as good, featuring more powerful pop rock gems like "Believe In You", "Love Lift Me", and my favorite, "If I Didn't Have You". Overall, this record is more ballad-rich, with lots of strings and glossy production. Some of that "organic" feel of the debut was compromised, but most of the songs are still strong and her voice is brilliant as always. She also had Desmond Child, Eric Bazilian (Hooters), and Carole King helping out with the songwriting, and Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi) playing guitar on "Why Don't You Love Me".

Marshall's third release, "Everybody's Got a Story" (2001), however, was a dramatic course change deep into R&B territory. I was not a fan of it. While there is a greatest hits compilation out there called "Intermission", I recommend you just pick up her first two albums - each is a masterpiece and available for pennies in used CD stores.

Amanda Marshall is reportedly in the studio cooking up a new release. Here's hoping that 2010 will be her year.

Marshall

Amanda Marshall: Official site.

Check out the video for "Let It Rain":

Review: Ted Garber "American Rail"

Life isn't fair. Some people can write good lyrics, but they can't write a good song. Some people can sing, but can't play an instrument. Some can play, but can't carry a tune if their lives depended on it. But some people have a monopoly on talent - they can do everything, and do it oh so right. Ted Garber is one of those monopolizers of talent who can write smart lyrics, craft jubilant songs, sing his heart out, and play his guitar and harp like nobody's business. And on top of all that, he comes across like your average everyday nice guy.

Ted Garber calls his unique blend of music "BluesAmericanaRock" and says his latest effort, ""American Rail", is a "deeply personal collection of songs steeped in American tradition with an international twist". A few tunes in and you'll catch his continental drift - while there is a bedrock of pure American party rock, you'll hear some Brazilian Bossanova, some Afro-Cuban drumming, and some of that classic big band sound. Garber's lyrics can be heavy, but always inspirational, as in "Giving Tree", a call to continue the efforts to rebuild what Katrina destroyed.

From the opening harmonica in the stomping "It's About Time" to the Jason Mraz riffing on the closer "Another Monday", you'll be captivated by the diversity of genres this artist has masterfully stirred into a singular style. Other highlights include the feel-good, horn-laden "Strike It Up", the wonderful upbeat duet "Waste Some Time", and the gentle beauty of "Break Me Down".

Garber is a genuine musical talent who uses his gift to remind the world of the power of American music. It is impossible to ride "American Rail" without feeling better in the end. Check out Ted Garber if you like Willy Porter, Pat McGee Band, or Bruce Springsteen.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10

Ted Garber on MySpace. Official site.