Interview: 10 Years

Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, 10 Years is a modern hard rock band that is aiming to make its mark in rock music with its latest record, “Feeding the Wolves,” which follows 2005’s breakout record, “The Autumn Effect,” and 2008’s, “Division.” Before they head out on this summer’s Carnival of Madness tour, alongside Shinedown, Sevendust, and Chevelle, drummer Brian Vodinh sat down to answer a few questions for us...

Read my interview with the band here at Rock and Roll Report!

Free mp3: 8mm "Bad Moon Rising"

Check out this stunning cover/reworking of CCR's classic, "Bad Moon Rising" by 8mm. The mp3 download is yours free, courtesy of Art of Broadcast - get it here.

Review: American Hi-Fi "Fight The Frequency"

Taking a break from being the band behind Miley Cyrus, the members of American Hi-Fi have regrouped to release the long-awaited follow-up to their amazing 2005 record, "Hearts on Parade". Produced by Butch Walker, "Hearts on Parade" has become one of the favorite underground pop rock records of the last decade.

American Hi-Fi is: Stacy Jones on vocals/drums/guitar, Jamie Arentzen on guitar/vocals, Drew Parsons on bass/vocals, and Brian Nolan on drums. And, for the sake of accuracy, not all of them play for Miley Cyrus. American Hi-Fi got off to a wonderful start in 2001 with their self-titled debut album, which contained the hit single "Flavor of the Weak". Unfortunately, nothing else from this notable debut got any traction and their second record, "The Art of Losing", proved to be a sophomore jinx. "Hearts on Parade" had big comeback written all over it, but it surprisingly failed to give these guys the success they deserved. Which brings us to "Fight The Frequency", their fourth time at bat after a long sit on the bench.

Jones describes the new record as sounding "...a little like Elliott Smith partying with the Foo Fighters at a kegger with My Bloody Valentine and Superdrag". For those of you who lack the imagination to conjure up exactly how that would sound, let me try to break it down for you. The title track starts us off, an energetic and inspirational anthem that affirms that the band hasn't lost a step. "This Is A Low" is grittier and not as immediately memorable, but will appeal to those who like the darker side of American Hi-Fi. Three tracks in and we have the first ballad, "Where Love Is A Lie", which begins with a gentle acoustic verse that leads to an explosive chorus - fairly predictable, but enjoyable song nonetheless. "Acetate" is a crunchy radio-ready rocker that could have fit nicely on "Hearts On Parade" - it is one of my favorites on the CD. This brings us to the first single, "Lost". With its safe formula, combining a driving verse with power ballad chorus, it should do well and bring greater attention to this underrated band.

The latter half of the record is uneven, switching between less melodic, grungy songs and the bright, catchy pop rock. Despite second-half highlights like "Lookout For Hope" and "A Taste For Crime", I am likely to stop this CD halfway through.

"Fight The Frequency" comes out on August 17th.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9

American Hi-Fi on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Terra Nova "Come Alive"

Back from a long hiatus, veteran AOR rockers Terra Nova return with "Come Alive", their fifth album. If you miss the melodic rock of the 80s - guitar-driven with generous keyboards and soaring vocals (not to mention an album cover of geometric shapes and blue hues) - Terra Nova is a band for you. They are huge in Europe and Japan, countries where AOR still appeals to the masses, and their latest release is proclaimed to be a return to their much-beloved 1996 debut album "Livin' It Up".

Growing up on bands like Journey, Night Ranger, and Survivor, I have a soft spot in my heart for high quality AOR. Terra Nova carries on this lost genre into present day, bucking current trends and playing the type of music they love. Fred Hendrix is an enormously talented vocalist custom built for AOR. The opener and title track storms onto the scene with an engaging riff and propelling rhythm. The na-nas and staccato guitar of "Holy Grail" will make a lot of melodic rockers salivate, and "Here Comes The Night" hits all the right buttons for a midtempo ballad. With its "Livin' On A Prayer" baseline, "Who Can You Count On" has a groovy vibe and an even better chorus. "My Own Way" has a bit of an unusual verse, but it leads into one of the catchiest choruses on the record. Finally, if you are a sucker for gushy, over the top piano ballads, be sure to check out "Those Eyes" and "The Final Curtain" - they'd make even Jonathan Cain cry.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9

Terra Nova On MySpace. Official site.

New video from Harry Hess

Hot new video from Harry Hess is available for your viewing and listening pleasure! Hess is formerly of Harem Scarem, one of the most underrated hard rock bands of all time. The new song, "This City" carries on the melodic rock tradition Harem Scarem fans are sure to love.

His new solo CD, "First Signal" will be released AUGUST 27th (Europe) AND SEPTEMBER 14th (US).

Review: Tony Harnell and the Mercury Train "Round Trip"

Tony Harnell, best known as the powerhouse vocalist behind hard rock band TNT, is ready to unleash his new solo record called "Round Trip". With his new band, The Mercury Train, Harnell revisits previous material to offer his fans (and hopefully some new ones) a bold, fresh take on his songs. In concept, it is similar to Bon Jovi's "This Left Feels Right", but Harnell makes the effort much more worthwhile.

While stripped down or alternative versions of classic rockers are going to seem sacrilegious to some longtime fans, I feel Harnell has done an amazing job showing us how timeless his songwriting can be. These new renditions are fantastic, bringing even the most dated of his material into the 21st century as if it were written yesterday. His riveting vocals and the brilliantly produced instrumentation are icing on the cake.

Just check out the acoustic-driven sound of "Somebody Told You", "Intuition", and "Lonely Nights" - they blew me away. The tender "Northern Lights" is another outstanding highlight that underscores this man's amazing vocal talent. I also thought his version of the haunting Alanis Morissette track, "Uninvited" was terrific. The bouncy acoustic pop and harmonious "oohs" and "ahhs" make "When I'm Away" another highlight. There are a handful of tracks that are merely interludes, too sleepy ("Ready To Fly"), or just don't quite work ("Satellite"), but generally "Round Trip" is a great, consistent listen from start to finish.

Fans of great acoustic-driven rock are going to love this, whether you have heard of Harnell or not. In fact, it may be an advantage to go into these songs without the bias of the original tainting your opinion. It is a trip you won't want to miss.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 12

"Round Trip" will be available on July 27 in the US.

Tony Harnell and the Mercury Train on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Northern Lights":

New James Henry video "The Sun Is Cracking The Flags"

James Henry has released a video for the excellent pop song, "The Sun Is Cracking The Flags". The song is from his latest CD, "Overspill" (review here).

Review: Ratt "Infestation"

Ratt is back with their seventh studio album, "Infestation". After going 'round and round' with original lead singer Stephen Pearcy, the rest of the current Ratt line-up (Warren DeMartini, Carlos Cavazo (Quiet Riot), Robbie Crane, and Bobby Blotzer) were able to let bygones be bygones. The guys were aiming for their hey day on this one, shooting for songs that could fit in-between their landmark 80s records "Out Of The Cellar" (which spawned their biggest hit, 1984's "Round and Round") and "Invasion Of Your Privacy".

"Infestation" recalls many elements of Ratt's past, but is somewhat updated. While the songwriting and lyrical content sound dated, the guitars sound pretty modern. In my mind, it is Pearcy's distinctive growl that really makes Ratt sound like Ratt. He doesn't sound like he's aged at all - in fact, all of the guys sound great after all these years and deserve an A for effort. The record is big fun, with loud guitar, sleaze, and mostly uptempo rockers.

What is missing here, though, are the memorable hooks that made their classic tunes so awesome. Some of the more commercial tracks could be considered modern day "hits" for Ratt - these are stacked right at the beginning of the CD. The blistering opener, "Eat Me Up Alive" suggests the boys are back with a vengeance, breathing fresh air into a sound that is a clear nod to their "Out of the Cellar" days. "Best Of Me" is the most radio-friendly anthem, and my favorite tune from "Infestation" - it would have fit comfortably on their underrated "Detonator" record. "A Little Too Much" is another fun track with a catchy riff and shout out loud chorus, but the record largely goes downhill after this, with a long string of mediocre hard rock songs that can be summed up as "comes close, but no cigar". In short, Ratt proves they can still rock, but by and large they left the melodic part out.

Fans of Ratt and their fellow 80s rock bands will appreciate the references of the era peppered into the songs here, including a subtle shout out to Van Halen's "Dance the Night Away" tucked into "Last Call", and the mentioned of "Wanted Man" in "As Good As It Gets".

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3

Ratt on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Best Of Me" here.

News: Danika Holmes video "Lock Me In Tonight"

Check out the new music video from Danika Holmes (review here):

Review: See Green "Violet" [EP]

Courtenay Green, an alternative pop artist who goes by See Green, has released her new 5 song EP entitled, "Violet". We covered the free mp3 release of the track, "Think Twice" not long ago here on BMF. "Think Twice" is an outstanding tune, brilliantly interjecting elements from 80s new wave into contemporary guitar-driven pop. The song, which reminds me of The Motels at their best, has become one of my favorite tracks of the summer.

The See Green "Violet" EP has more of the same, with the perky "Gold Mine" and "Get What I Want" being especially charming and fun to hear. The closing track, "Fade Away" is a pleasant departure as the sparse acoustic arrangement allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of Green's voice.

"Violet" follows her previous 2008 EP. A jack of all trades, Courtenay Green writes and arranges just about every part of the song, and co-produces her material. She is working hard on her debut See Green record and I for one am very excited to hear it.

See Green on MySpace. Official site.

Check out her video for "Devil in the Details":

Review: The Corner Laughers "Ultraviolet Garden"

One look at The Corner Laughers and you get the idea they would be the hell raisers at every party.



OK, maybe not. But this San Francisco outfit can write some delightfully infectious indie pop that harnesses elements from the best of the girl groups from the 60s and give them new life in the form of contemporary, offbeat pop that features light guitar, ukulele, organ, and the occasional glockenspiel. The vocals have the sweet sincerity of Leigh Nash (Sixpence None The Richer), and are overlayed with clever harmonies with lyrics that are refreshingly cerebral. Think Go-Gos meet XTC. Every track has something to like, but among my favorites I count "Shrine of the Martyred Saint", "For The Sake of the Cat", "The Commonest Manifesto", and "Silver Medal". For those searching for something a bit more eclectic, The Corner Laughers also put their stamp on baroque pop, bluegrass and folk.

A little off the beaten path, but never straying from a good melody, "Ultraviolet Garden" is a smart and charming delight. The record was produced by The Orange Peels' Allen Clapp and released on John Wesley Harding's Popover Corps label. They've performed with some of our favorite power pop artists - Mike Viola and Bleu (the Major Labels) and recently toured the UK with Anton Barbeau. In a business where "art" does not usually equate with commercial success, it is my wish that The Corner Laughers have the last laugh.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 13

The Corner Laughers on MySpace. Official site.

Check out the video for "Stonewords":

Lots of free mp3 for your weekend

Free mp3 Friday! All of these are free and legal downloads, courtesy of Green Light Go.

Echo Orbiter, From "Euphonicmontage" Release Date: September 28, 2010
“Mouth of an Incomplete Twin”
“This Worm In Rigor Mortis”
Genre: Experimental
For fans of: Elephant 6, Elf Power

Alan Cohen Experience, From "Space & Time" due out August 31, 2010 (reviewed here).
“Arrows of Time”
“The Uncertainty Principle”
“Einstein”
Genre: Anti-folk/power pop
For fans of: Adam Green, Jeffrey Lewis

Sara Radle, From "Four" Release Date: September 14, 2010 (reviewed here)
“Song for Adam”
Genre: Powerpop
For fans of: Jenny Lewis, Regina Spektor, Dum Dum Girls

Neil Nathan, From "The Distance Calls" Release Date: August 24, 2010 (reviewed here)
“California Run” http://www.greenlightgopublicity.com/clients/content/neilnathan/audio/California_Run.mp3
“Highways” http://www.greenlightgopublicity.com/clients/content/neilnathan/audio/Highways.mp3
Genre: Powerpop
For fans of: Matthew Sweet, Cat Stevens, The Go, Marc Bolan

Neutral Uke Hotel“King of Carrot Flowers Pt. 1” (Neutral Milk Hotel Cover)
Genre: Indie rock, Cover song
For fans of: Neutral Milk Hotel

The White Ravens, From "Gargoyles and Weather Vanes" due out July 6, 2010
“Sparks”
“Tick Tock”
Genre: Garage rock
For fans of: The White Stripes, Fiery Furnaces

Gwyneth & Monko, From "Good Old Horse" due out July 20, 2010
“Good Old Horse”
“Lexington Ballad”
Genre: Americana/Folk
For fans of: Jenny Lewis, Gillian Welch

Leopold and His Fiction, From the upcoming album TBA
“Golden Friends”
Genre: Garage folk
For fans of: The Black Keys, Kings of Leon, Heartless Bastards

Review: Rachel McGoye "Ghetto Gloss" [EP] - free mp3

Rachel McGoye's latest EP, "Ghetto Gloss", is mostly melodic pop and mixed in with a little soul and R&B. It was produced and co-written by Alex Band (formerly of The Calling), who helps to bring a melodic rock edge to the forefront.

I was not overwhelmed by the title track to this EP, but it was evident from this tune that Rachel McGoye has a voice suited for light rock and soul - reminding me a little of Colbie Caillat. The contributions from Alex Band can be heard throughout these four tunes, which pop rockers will enjoy. Out of the four tracks on this EP I liked "Love Seed" the most, with "Oh My My" being a close second. "Love Seed" is a straight-up pop rock tune, and the acoustic guitars give "Oh My My" a light, breezy feel.

Rachel McGoye on MySpace. Official site.

Get the FREE mp3 of "Ghetto Gloss" right here.

Review: Stone Temple Pilots "Stone Temple Pilots" (2010)

It is all too easy to jump on the "Stone Temple Pilots is so yesterday" bandwagon. I admit that I had pretty much written the band off after the appearance of "No. 4" - they had a couple good tracks left in them, but not enough to fill an album. I never imagined their 2010 self-titled reunion record would do more than just raise a curious eyebrow.

But the latest from STP is a pleasant surprise! It is less of a gritty rocker than early STP - which will alienate some longtime fans - but the new melodic rock direction suits them well. What STP has managed to do here should not be underestimated - they still have some of their grunge influence (you'll hear clear derivations from 90s kings like Nirvana and Pearl Jam), but bring more of a modern powerpop sensibility to the songwriting. Scott Weiland sounds re-energized and Dean DeLeo has a never-ending bag of guitar tricks that can make a so-so song sound so much better. Catchy melodies abound on this CD, with highlights including the single, "Between The Lines", "Take A Load Off", "Hickory Dichotomy", and "Cinnamon". And don't miss "First Kiss On Mars" if you are a David Bowie fan - I did a musical double-take when hearing the first verse!

The record cuts right to the chase - it only takes the band 40 minutes to rip through the twelve new tracks. Even the rare filler is tolerable and not bad enough to hit fast forward. This is one of their most consistent records and can enjoyed straight through from start to finish.

In short, I think it is the band's best since 1996's "Tiny Music... Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop". Give it a shot. It certainly gets my vote for the most pleasant surprise of 2010 so far.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12

Stone Temple Pilots on MySpace. Official site.

Tony Harnell: New video "Northern Lights"

Check out this pretty acoustic ballad, "Northern Lights" from amazing vocalist Tony Harnell (TNT), who has a solo record coming out July 2 (Europe) or July 27 (US).

Review: Rooney "Eureka"

I've been a big fan of the power pop and rock outfit Rooney since their self-titled debut blew me away in 2002 with its ultra catchy hooks and sunny melodies. Now "free" of major record labels, the band has recently released their third effort, "Eureka" on their own new label, California Dreamin’ Records. It's been three long years, with only the excellent solo release from Taylor Locke to keep me company (review here), so I was on the edge of my seat with eager anticipation...

I am just as surprised as you may be when I say that my first listen produced nothing more than "meh". What the hell happened? This batch of songs is devoid of passion and almost completely lacking the charm that drew me in as a devoted fan. Being such a devout fan, I gave the record a second and third try, but still struggle to find the magic that made me fall in love with this band.

I don't mean to be overly harsh - some of the songs are quite good. Things get off to a decent, albeit lukewarm, start with the Weezer-lite sound of "Holdin' On", which was what I was doing in hopes that the rest of the CD would be more exciting. "Only Friend" also comes close, but I can't help thinking this sounds too much like Barry Manilow covering a song by Roger Joseph Manning Jr. The better tracks are "I Can't Get Enough", "All Or Nothing", and "I Don't Wanna Lose You", where Rooney get their groove back and showcase their love for everything from E.L.O. to Jellyfish. But considering what we know this band to be capable of, "Eureka" is remarkably dull. Give it a try if you are curious to hear what a more mature, subdued, and sugar-free Rooney record would sound like - otherwise, go with Taylor Locke's record.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 5, 7

Rooney on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Big City Rock "Big City Rock"

Now that's a real shame...when folks be throwing away a perfectly good pop rock band like Big City Rock. Their self-titled debut dropped in 2006 on Atlantic, featuring production from Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne), mixing by the famed Chris Lord-Alge, and high recommendations from Adam Levine (Maroon 5), who enthusiastically proclaimed Big City Rock (BCR) to be his favorite new band.

So what happened? Why hasn't anyone heard of them outside of L.A.? Maybe it is because their logo looked too much like the defunct Circuit City electronics store - who knows. All I know is that this CD has more hooks than a tackle box and rocks you with crunchy ear candy from start to finish. It is over a little too soon, clocking in at just 35 minutes, but what a ride. In addition to no filler melodic rock, their sound has a distinct 80s vibe that reminds me of Rock Kills Kid (review here). Highlights include "Sink", "As Soon As I Find Out", and "Kind". My favorite is "All Of The Above", which should have put Nate Bott (guitar and vocals) and company on the map. If you like power ballads, check out "I Believe In You".

If you dig Rock Kills Kid, Rooney, or Click Five, you must hear BCR. You can get their CD used on Amazon for one penny. Go get it for cryin' out loud. You can also keep track of the band's next move here. They've changed their name to The Remainers - maybe they will have better luck under that moniker.

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

Big City Rock on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video for "All Of The Above" here.

Review: All Star United "The Good Album"

Take a trip to the surface of the sun - the new record, "The Good Album" by All Star United is HOT. I've always liked this band - engaging lyrics, hugely melodic choruses, and excellent musicianship. They've released a string of strong records through the last decade and "The Good Album" continues this tradition - in fact, I think it is one of their stronger releases in recent memory. Yes, it is more of the same relative to their other work, but why change a successful formula? All Star United faithfully delivers what their fans want - dramatic songs that lampoon society or inspire, each containing a driving versus and sing-a-long chorus.

And they seem to have outdone themselves on "The Good Album", sounding tighter and more energetic than ever, delivering one memorable melody after another. Not a bad tune in this remarkably consistent record, but some of the tracks that resonate the most with me include "Is This The Moment", "Once Again, With Feeling", and "Beautiful Way". Another interesting cut is the happy go luck feel of "Dude...That's Freaking Awesome!", a sarcastic account of the aimless partiers in college who refuse to grow up. Other great tunes slamming celebrity worship and commercialism grace this record as well.

I don't understand why a band like All Star United isn't more of a household name. They gained some traction with their last record, "Love and Radiation", getting songs placed in movies and TV. There is clearly no justice in the musical world if "The Good Album" doesn't explode - it's not just good...it is terrific.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12

All Star United on MySpace. Official site.

Check out a video for "Lights Out":

Review: Sara Radle "Four"

You may not realize it, but chances are you've heard Sara Radle already. She plays guitar and sings for the band Walking Sleep and was in The Rentals with Matt Sharp (Weezer) in 2005. She's shared stages at festivals with many bands including The Flaming Lips and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The Texas native is now ready to release her fourth solo effort on September 14, simply entitled "Four".

"Four" is described as a peek into Radle's personal diary. Her intensely personal lyrics and the trademark sweetness in her voice invite the listener into her world, which is supported by a soundtrack of indie pop and rock. While Radle has clear indie rock roots, she has a great sense for melody and crafts a chorus that sticks with you. She puts her tender voice to further good use by decorating her songs with copious harmonies that are lush and uplifting. It seems she's reached back to the 60s to sound like one of the numerous girl groups predominating that era (check out "The Baxter Hill"). But what makes "Four" even more fun is that Radle is not one-dimensional - despite her soothing voice, she can show some teeth and bite.

The record begins with one of my favorite tracks, "Fooling Nobody", a sunny song with a playful piano line and harmonies that lead to a jamming guitar-driven chorus. Light strings enhance the mid-tempo "The Lonely King", taking this catchy fable to new heights. She flaunts her love for garage and indie rock most blatantly on "A Reason To Stay", another infectious treat for new and long-time fans alike. "Song For Adam" will make everyone wish they had a Sara Radle in their life to sing them a such a sweetly supportive pep talk. A final highlight is "Over Now", perfect if you need a good break up song.

Check out Sara Radle if you are a Rentals fan, and if you like Lisa Loeb or Frente!

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

Sara Radle on MySpace. Official site.

Review: Big Head Todd "Rocksteady"

Beloved roots rockers Big Head Todd (BHT) return July 20 with "Rocksteady", their eighth studio album. "Rocksteady" was recorded in their home studios in Denver, CO and Chicago, IL over the past year and consists of many tracks that were played and refined during their perpetual touring. After 25 remarkable years together, the band sounds more relaxed than ever, comfortable taking on any genre you can throw at them.

Like most other BHT records of late, "Rocksteady" is a diverse buffet of musical styles - the listener will sample some soul, funk, and pop while devouring the rock base. The title track kicks things off and is my runaway favorite - a fast paced and funky rocker that would make even the most stoic prude want to dance. Things suddenly get a little breezy with the mellow but moving single, "Beautiful", but the funk rock returns later with "Happiness Is". "After Gold" is my favorite ballad on the record, sounding like it would be right at home on their "Sister Sweetly" release. "Back To The Garden" has a strong reggae beat that sticks out like a sore thumb for me, but I don't despair for long because the next track, "Smokestack Lightning" is a sizzling rocker with stinging blues guitar and a thick brassy stomp. "I Hate It When You're Gone" is my second favorite next to the title track, easily the most instantly memorable and radio friendly cut off the record. It is a genuine feel good, soulful pop rocker - what I would do to hear an album full of tracks like this one.

BHT has a reputation for putting their touch on classic tunes - this time around we get their laid back interpretation of the Rolling Stones hit, "Beast Of Burden" - another winner. "Rocksteady" closes with "Fake Diamond Kind", a gentle ballad reminding us that friendship and love go together.

While "Rocksteady" doesn't quite capture the magic that made their 1993 breakthrough record "Sister Sweetly" a masterpiece, it continues along the general trajectory BHT has followed since the beginning - that is, to offer a little something for everyone. For late comers, "Rocksteady" serves as a fine introduction to the world of BHT. The thread that holds this diverse collection together is the masterful guitar playing - Todd Park Mohr is clearly one of today's best. Mohr's playing can be described in the same way that he sings on "Muhammad Ali": he "floats like a butterfly, stings like a bee".

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

Big Head Todd on MySpace. Official site.