A - vs Monkey Kong - CD
(Mammoth Records)
On the first track "For Starters" I thought that it was the Pixies
fronted by Perry Farrell. But after that track they lost the Pixies
similarity and the Jane's Addition sound took over in the music as
well as the vocals. These guys take me back to the heyday of alt rock from
the late 80's and early 90's. They fuckin' rock and deserve your attention.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)
A Beautiful Silence - Waging A War on Myself - CD
(A Beautiful
Silence) "In Review"
-- (2009)
A Cat Called Cricket - Here Comes Another Melody - CD
(Beechfields Records)
A Cat Called Cricket is a wonderful folk indie band in the vein of
The Decemberists that have a knack of creating a catchy harmony while
sounding close to the fringe. I also see a bit of Jump, Little Children
in them as well. "While You Sleep" is one of my favorites on the
disc, but the chorus just kills me. It's just a bit offkey and while charming
just ruins it for me...until it hits the next verse. The lyrics are supurb
and the cello and banjo just add to the full unique sound of this band.
Great college folk indie alternative rock.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
A Cure for Reality - A Cure for Reality - CD
(SDMP Records)This
CD started off decent enough with synth stylings overtop of a steady beat.
From there it just degenerated into the same ol' same ol, which ended up
amounting to nothing more that new age muzak.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
A Global Threat - Until We Die - CD
(GMM Records) Full
on 82 sounding hardcore. A little thin sounding but still good. I liked
the sing along, kind of English sounding vocals. With song titles like "Fucking
Racist Maggots" "Who's To Blame" and "Filthy Greedy Guilty" these kids really
hearken back to an era when punk was a lot more socially active and concerned
rather than the commercialized acceptable subculture demographic it has
become. Need I mention the spikes and mohawks? Three cheers for these guys,
I hope to hear more soon!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
(Punk Core Records) A Global Threat plays good fast, in-your-face punk with vocals that race at break neck speed. The funny thing about listening to the releases we got in from Punk Core Records is that they remind me of the kind of music I was really into when I first started listening to punk. I also realize how much my musical taste have grown over the years. So while I might not be into this type of music anymore I realized how is appeals to kids who are tired of all the crap that commercial radio and television has to offer. Another great thing I liked about this is that the recording quality reminded me of the many seven-inch records I have but rarely am able to listen to anymore. A Global Threat: Get it Today!
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
A New Found Glory - From the Screen to Your Stereo - CD
(Drive-Thru Records)
A New Found Glory cover seven songs from popular movies. You get
their take on: "That Thing You Do", "Never Ending Story Theme Song", "I
Don't Want to Miss A Thing", "The Goonies "r" Good Enough", "The Glory of
Love", "(Everything I Do) I Do it for You" and lastly "My Heart Will Go
On". It is fun to hear all these songs done in a punk pop way, but I think
their style gets old on these songs. It's like they are all the same songs
with just changes in lyrics and tempo. I wish they had more variations to
their sound and style, but that is pretty typical of most bands, especially
when they do covers. Overall it's a good concept and it came out well. But
it's nothing that I'd want to listen to more than a couple of times.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)
A Perfect Circle - Mer de Noms - CD
(Virgin Records)
Years ago I became aware of Tool and although I wasn't too impressed
at first, their music really grew on me. Tool has an extremely dedicated
following, so this new band fronted by Maynard James Keenan has some
high expectations to live up to. The album's title, according to the press
kit, is French for "Sea of Names", and the majority of the song titles are
people's names, including my own ("Thomas"). The fifth track, "Orestes"
mentions the band's name in the lyrics also. This album seems to explore
more varied musical territory than Tool did. Many of the songs are
treated with soft acoustic guitars and then sudden unexpected crescendos
of metal edged monstrosity. Piano, violin and beautiful vocal harmonies
weave together to create a somewhat Gothic and exotic interlude on "Renholder".
I heard parts of this album that reminded me of Pink Floyd and even
Jethro Tull. There's even a song that oddly enough somewhat reminds
me of Peter Gabriel's material. In general, this band seems mellower
than Tool's previous stuff, but here and there A Perfect Circle's
"Mer de Noms" totally rocks out.
--Tom CoreKill (2001)
A Planet for Texas - You Can Still Rock In America - CD
(Diaphragm Records 2480 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43202) "Fuck" He said
as his jaw dropped. "These guys kill" This record is so much what I am into
right now it's frightening.These guys have beat Out Cold as my favorite
record this issue. Again it's that punk rock and roll thing that is driving
the hipster's crazy this season, great up tempo stuff with excellent vocals
and a shitload of attitude and intensity. Needless to say this made me smile
and I ask you, is that such a bad thing? Get this now!
-- Tom CoreKill (2001)
A Planet for Texas - Sprechen Sie Rock - CD
(Diaphragm
Records) The first thing I thought of when this disc started was "Damn
it's Motorhead!". Their other songs had a different vocalist so with
the Lemmy similarity removed they sounded more like a typical melodic hardcore
band. Their third song "Broken Heartland" sounded so similar to Husker
Du it was scary.except that it wasn't nearly as tight as it should have
been. I was wondering what the song "Tony Painter" would be like since it
could have been praising or dissing, I soon found out it was the latter.
Tony for those not in the know was the drummer for the early 90's punk band
Pet UFO and also ran the label Burnt Sienna Records which
was pretty successful. In the late 90's he bought the Columbus club "The
Distillery" which always has some great punk acts coming through. Evidently
this band felt wronged by him and wrote this song to punish Tony, I can't
say that my band didn't do similar things. Overall they are a better than
average melodic hardcore band with decent wit and some catchy tunes. Not
the best around, but one of the better bands that I've heard come out of
Columbus.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)
A. Rex - Moving Backwards - CD
(A. Rex Music) Despite
its faults this release is pretty damn good. The piano-based tunes are catchy
and the lyrics are good. The vocals are good as well. My problem is that
they don't have much flavor to them. The singing is done in a hushed tone,
even on the loud parts it sounds like the vocalist is whisper-singing loud.
"Rock n Roll" is one of the exceptions where the singer does try something
different with his voice. This also happens to be my favorite tune on this
release. The production on the opening tune "Determined" could have been
a bit better, it's not too bad on the overall release. And while I would
say that the song also had a bit of Ben Folds quality to it, the
rest of the release is has more of a folk alternative singer-songwriter
groove to it. This is a band I feel is right on the cusp of doing great
things, they just that little extra something to get them there.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
A. Rex - Who Said I Was Running? - CD
(A. Rex) The disc
started off slow for me until it hit the third track "Don't Let Me Get Away"
which suddenly made me think of Paul Westerberg and later Replacements.
The rest of this carried on in this mode, with that same Westerberg style.
Somewhere between that indie rock and alt-country feel is where A. Rex
hangs his hat and shows his skills.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
AM Stereo - Suffocation Town - CD
(Intelligent
Records) This band has a great pop punk sound. The music is similar
to the legendary Dayton band, The Oxymorons, and I have a feeling
that the musical influences are very similar. The vocals sound a bit strained
at times, especially when it seems like the lead singer gets into a rock-n-roll
growl mood. While I'm listening to this I'm half expecting them to break
into "Someone Take the Wheel".
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
The Abe Lincoln Story - Kings Of The Soul Punk Swing- CD
(Vaguely Profound
Recordings) This release was a bit of a disappointment, because I was
expecting so much from the title of the release. The music, with the horns
and jazz styling, had a late ‘60s early ‘70s variety show feel to it, which
was wonderful. The vocals and lyrics were another thing altogether. I would
have preferred a crooning “Richard Cheese” type vocal styling, as
opposed to the just plain week vocals of the lead singer. The lyrics were
just amateurish, going for the titter effect. Should’ve been better.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Aberdeen - The Boy Has Gone Away - CD
(Phono
Recordings) They play great traditional style college rock which is
quite refreshing nowadays. Basic set up with female vocals, bass, guitar
and drums, forming a clean stripped down sound that makes you want to dance.
The third track "Emma's House" is a cover of some band named The Field
Mice which has great innertwining male/female vocals and a driving beat
reminiscent of The Church and even a bit of Soul Asylum thrown
in for good measure. A sure bet in my book.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)
Aberdeen City - The Freezing Atlantic - CD
(Dovecote Records)
This Boston band is likely to get a lot of comparisons to great English
ambient mind-rockers like Coldplay, Radiohead, and Elbow.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with that. Personally, I like this disc
very much, and think they have a lot going for them. The sound is very experimental
and raw, while the rhythm propels the whole thing forward at a lurching,
my-first-day-as-Frankenstein's-creature pace. There's really only one sonic
drawback: the lack of definition in the bass ranges, making the sound a
little more metallic than it probably wants to be. But the songs are masterful:
even the nearly eight-minute "Brighton" is interesting at every turn. Who
knows what they do when producer Steve Lilliwhite (U2, Morrissey) isn't
around? They might not have the arrangements as tight, but I'd like to know
for sure, because this stuff is too good to not be noticed.
-- Jeremy Mutant (2006)
Abney Park - Lost Horizons - CD
(Abney Park) My eyes
have been opened to the greatness of Abney Park and Steampunk music
in general. You may be familiar with the steampunk genre of literature and
films, but there is also a burgeoning music movement as well. Abney Park's
music is perfect for the whole steampunk universe with just the right sound
befitting a group of airship pirates. Did I forget to mention that they
are a band of airship pirates who use their dirigible to pillage the deserving.
If you want to know more about steampunk check out their website or Google
it.
Abney Park's music is a mesmerizing blend of Celtic, industrial,
world beat, electronica and rock. I love every song on this disc from their
theme "Airship Pirates" to the haunting "Virus". However, one of their most
amazing songs is their powerful cover of "I Am Stretched On Your Grave."
I am now a willing member of Captain Robert's army.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Abused Silence - Naked Faces - CD
(Hit and Run Records)
"In Review"
-- (2009)
Daryle Stephen Ackerman - Attention To Detail - CD
The first question that comes to mind as I listen to this release is Why?
Then I recalled a conversation I had a while ago with Mite lamenting the
pros and cons of complex recording methods being within reach of everybody.
On one hand it is a great thing to see amazing bands that would have never
recorded themselves in any reasonable fashion now put out a CD without a
major financial investment. Of course on the opposite side of the equation
you have CDs like this one.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Aaron Acosta - Wave - CD
(Aaron Acosta)
Hmmm, a release full of sound interpretations and none of them all that
appealing to me. The one thing I did notice is that the songs really do
bring about the feeling of their title, such as "Race" which has
an urgent challenging feel to it. The song "Cave" had us making
spooky, haloween type sounds while it was playing. And while the tracks
do evoke an emotion or place, they sound amerturish which I believe is a
combination of the recording and the equipment used to make the songs. Most
songs sound very artificial, like bad 80's keyboards and synths, and make
me think of a talent show or open mike night.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Dan Adler - All Things Familiar - CD
(Dan Adler) "In
Review"
-- (2009)
Adam X - On the One and Two - Creative Vandalism - CD
(Instinct Records 26 W 17th Street #502 NY, NY 10011) Adam X is electronic
and his music is homogenous.There's some progress on the second disc, but
it still lacks what most electronic music lacks-life.
-- Regan (2001)
Bryan Adams - The Best of Me - CD
(Universal
Records) I remember when Bryan Adam's first record Reckless came
out back in 84. I thought it was lame pop crap...especially since all the
girls at school loved him. I was into metal, punk and hard rock. Years later
my band covered "Summer of '69" and had a blast doing it. Now listening
to this greatest hits collection I realize that my favorite songs of his
were the early ones such as "Cuts Like A Knife" and "Run to You". Many of
his later songs were close to ballads and are just painful to listen too.
I heard him on VH1 a few years ago and liked his newer harder edged and
darker music, but I didn't hear it on this disc. I do admit that I like
some Bryan Adams, but I feel that over half this disk is pop fluff.
So now for the lowdown: if you like his ballads, then you'll love this release.
If you like something with a bit of an edge then take a pass.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
The Keith John Adams - Unclever - CD
(HHBTM) This is a goofy
little indie rock record that has catchy songs that stick in your head like
wads of gooey cotton candy. The songs are very basic, but have loads of
hooks and silly lyrics that sometimes make you do a double take and say
"what?". I can see this being very popular with the college rock set and
people who can image an updated version of the Kinks. Keith's
British accent doesn't cut through on many tracks, but when it does it adds
that special bit of extra charm, ala Hugh Grant. A perfect disc for
fans of catchy indie rock and lo-fi.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Winifred Adams - Where Will This Love Go? - CD
(Winifred Adams) I’m
not really into typical contemporary Christian music, which really means
I’m not into this CD at all.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
Advanced Bliss - Oak Song - CD
(High Priestess Productions)
- Looking at the promo package and the CD, I can tell why the woman known
as Regan goes by Advanced Bliss. I'm sure she has the ability
to put any man or woman in such a state. Regan says that this album contains
the songs, which were whispered to her by a stand of oak trees on her property.
Sound a bit odd? Well, she did send a cool press pack that included a piece
of singed end parchment addressed to me.
OK, so she's devastatingly beautiful and sends a cool yet odd press pack…what
about the music? It is a conglomeration of medieval themed music, new age
and operatic folk singing. I think she's really good at what she does, but
I personally could only take so much of it. One of the best tracks is the
seductive and at times funky "Ivory Bed" where she serenades her lover with
lines like "All you got to do girl is be with me". If I heard it at an SCA
event then I would be totally into it. This is one of those releases where
the context of where you are listening to it really matters.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Aerosmith - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Music
Company) This collection of Aerosmith tunes all hail from the
second coming of the band which took place from the late '80s to the early
'90s. So while this CD might not have the classic rock Aerosmith,
it does contain a slew of MTv era hits such as "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)",
"Rag Doll", "Janie's Got a Gun", . you get the picture. There's not one
dud on here. Now all Universal needs to do is put out a Millennium Collection
of their many hits that they have before and after the ones they have here.
When you look at it, this is just one of those "must have" CD's.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Aetherium - Circle With The End - CD
(Labo Records) I had bad feelings about this four-tracker when I heard the
melodic opening sound of track 1. However, I didn't expect things to get
as bad as they did, though. Sweet mother of God, this is bad. This Belgium
death/black metal band need to find something else to do, because this is
horrible... And don't even get me started on those vocals. Geeezzz.
-- Hans Mutant (2007)
AFI - The Art of Drowning - CD
(Nitro Records)
I was first turned onto these boys by the Beer Belly video that I reviewed
in the last issue of MR. Hard rockin' punk in all it's glory with a touch
of heavy rock goodness is how I would best describe this killer release.
The band puts it's all into every song, which is one of the biggest reasons
that this release is so phenomenal. If this band isn't part of your collection,
go out now and pick up this CD today.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Afro Celt Sound System - Anatomic - CD
(Real World Records)
Afro Celt Sound System has been one of my favorite bands within the
past five years with their amazing blend of Celtic, Western African and
Electronica. While this release is great I feel that it doesn't quite stack
up to my two favorites Seed and Volume 3: Further in Time.
I do like that most of the songs are sung in African languages and that
there is still an emphasis on blending together of different genres. However,
most of the songs seem to rely a bit to heavily on a basic West African
sound and a bit of electronica to ground them. There really aren't many
times where the music really seems to be a seamless fusion of several disparate
styles coming together to form something new.
That being said, this is still a great release. A few songs do blend together
many elements of Western African and Celtic music like on the title track
"Anatomic". I especially love all of the layers which are blended into the
songs and aren't readily noticeable until you follow just one instrument
throughout the song. Some are subtle, but when taken together they create
such an amazing mix which in my view is the sign of an amazing band. Overall,
Afro Celt Sound System sounds like no other band out there and is
a great example of music that can be created and enjoyed by many due to
the talents of some amazing musicians.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Against All Authority - Nothing New for Trash Like You - CD
(Sub City Records)
This disk is full of great snotty punk rock that was recorded by the band
from 1992-2000. First off, for all you AAA fans this disk consist
of 18 out-of-print/hard-to-find songs so you will do yourself a great service
by getting yourself a copy. This reminds me of the great punk shows that
I went to in the early '90s at the old butcher shop/warehouse space in Dayton.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Ahmond - A Boy You Once Knew - CD
(ahmond) This acoustical
singer-songwriter sounds a little too “new age” for my taste.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
Ahn Trio - Lullaby for My Favorite Insomniac - CD
(Sony Records)
I've been listening to this disc fairly regularly since it arrived, but
have had a hard time putting my words down. The Ahn Trio consists
of three very talented Julliard trained sisters who play piano, violin and
cello. It may be due to them being siblings but I have rarely heard a trio
that sounds this full and this in touch with one another. The flow and complex
melody lines, which weave between them, are breathtaking. I think the only
negative thing I could say is that I really didn't think the vocals on the
song "All I Want" are up to par with the rest of the release. As a bonus,
the last four songs on this album are remixes blending the Ahn Trio
with light electronica delivering amazing results. Their version of "This
is Not America" delivers even more of an impact when it is remixed. I really
hope I have the change to see the Ahn Trio live at some point. I'm
sure it is a mesmerizing experience. This is truly among the best classical
music I've heard this decade.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Airiel Down - Vision - CD
(Airiel Down) Airiel
Down has a modern rock feel blending with a southern twang. You might
even call it updated southern alternative rock. All of the music is fine
and the bass player really stands out with his melody lines that catch the
phrasing and feel of the songs just perfectly. The only real problem I have
is that the vocalists voice gets on my nerves. It's not bad, it's just that
I don't like how it sounds. Kinda picky and personal I know. I can see Airiel
Down being a really good bar band and appealing to people who like Seven
Mary Three.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Omar Akram - Secret Journey - CD
(Real Music) Despite
the very new age look of the CD cover for this release, it's actually pretty
good. Omar's instrumental music is a combination of Classical, Middle
Eastern and Gypsy. The resulting sound is relaxing and refreshing. And while
some of the tunes do get a bit new agey at times, the overall CD is an interesting
listen.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Akwarian Sea Rebel - Gritty - CD
(Akwarian
Sea Rebel) The cover of this release has a side view a person wearing
a myriad of instruments as a headdress. It's a good representation of what
can be found while listening to this disc. The tracks are varied and the
overall feel is eclecticism. "Mula-la" sounds like an Ani Difranco
& Creatures mash up, while I can hear hints of Tricky in "WWIII".
There's something Portishead like in the tune "Green Sea" and I kept
thinking about the final cut on side two of Pink Floyd's "The Wall"
while listening to the haunting sound of "Galaxy Intro". There are hints
of a droning Sublime on "Philly in the Wintertime" and the funkiness
of "Outer Galactic Refugee" is addictive. Now I'm not sure if this is band
is a one woman powerhouse, or if it's just the singer that's female. There's
not too much info except a photo on the inside of the CD case that has me
thinking the former. The best thing about this release is that the overall
production has a low-fi quality to it, which helps to make the overall sound
of this CD much more enjoyable.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Nicholas Alan - Selections from A World Like Ours - CD
(Nicholas Alan)
The first track on this threesome proclaims "I Think I'm in Love with You"
and I already know where's its all heading. Nothing against love songs,
but this is just so light and fluffy it makes me a bit quesy…and the bongos
don't help matters. The guitar playing is decent at least and the singer's
voice is nicely suited for soft mellow songs, similar to Jack Johnson,
but without as much character in the delivery.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Scott Alexander - Makes Friends - CD
(Scott Alexander
Music) I really had hoped this would be better. It has some great elements.
Scott has a voice like Adam & His Package, is quirky and actually
includes a bassoon on one track. Usually, I would call this the ingredients
for a successful release. However, songs don't really gel and while some
of his lyrics are quirky, they can't go the distance and become clever.
As Spinal Tap said there is a fine line between clever and stupid,
and these songs are quite a bit behind that line.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Alexandrakis, Eric - I.V. Catatonia - CD
(Y&T Music)
It's really funky that we've been getting quite a few experimental soundscape
releases in lately. This is by far one of the better ones. While sound bites,
samples, electronics and noises are intermixed throughout the CD, there
is also musical underlyings that hold everything together. Unlike other
releases of this genre where the tracks come off as bad jam sessions, Mr.
Alexandrakis actually shows musical talent as well as a great sense
of layering and production.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Pedro Alfonso - Strings To Your Heart - CD
(Talent Beach Music)
Pedro is a phenomenal violinist who has a love of Latin music, jazz
and a great beat. He has played with a litany of Laitno artists and has
left his unique imprint on a multitude of songs. Left to his own devices
he tends to be a bit on the pop-romantic / light jazz side of things, with
the only vocals being very Equivel-esque doo-wops. He even does a
really interesting cover of Journey's "Open Arms". Overall I prefer
his faster paced songs to his light jazz tendencies, but either way he is
amazing. This is a must if you like great violin or music for a very romantic
evening.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Algren - A Wayward Sound Floods the Street - CD
This release suffers from a few defects; the most noticeable is the bad
production that muffles every song. The other defect is the forced vocals.
The songs are basic, but not bad, however the vocalist tries to overemphasize
his voice and makes every word sound forced and a bit silly. Track 7 "My
City" is best on the whole release due to the singing not sound forced and
the music builds up in anticipation of the choruses. They do have some potential,
but really need to work on a few things before their next outing.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)
Alien Ant Farm - Up In The Attic - CD
(Universal
Records) My god is this CD awful. “Supreme Lifestyle” has that top 40
cookie cutter radio station pop sound that I dislike so much. The attempt
by the vocalist to make every word sound heartfelt by gasping at the end
of every verse is pitiable. The tune “State of Emergency” comes across as
feeble attempt to be the Foo Fighters. I have to say that I’m not
too impressed.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Ed Alkalay - I Hate You - CD
(Ed Alkalay) This
country-blues-rock band is the type I would expect to play at a local festival
Anywhere, USA. The vocals, music and lyrics aren’t that great, but they
will do on a summer day as your drinking beer and eating fried dough covered
in powdered sugar.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
All is Well - Spoonfork - CD
(Chainsaw Baby)
A mash up of She Wants Revenge and the Red Hot Chili Peppers
sounds like it would be pretty sweet doesn’t it? Well it is pretty damn
sweet as demonstrated by the music on this release by All is Well.
The CD kicks off with “From the F” which has a great driving bass that is
present throughout the disc. While it’s not the longest track on the release,
there was a point in the song where the chorus started getting on my nerves.
I really enjoyed the tune “Bustin’ Heads for Dr. Death” which is listed
as running a deceiving running time of 3:58 when it actually last a full
7:16 with various breakdowns keeping the song fresh throughout. “The Undertaker”
is another such beast on this CD. And who can resist the skull with fork
and spoon crossbones logo.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
All Natural Lemon & Lime Flavors - Straight Blue Line - CD
(Gern Blandsten Records)
Dreamy synth & distorted guitars rest on an energized beat as wispy vocals
float about the room.The experimental and ethereal tunes on this release
span the line between new age and alternative electronica. Very nice.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Ian Allen - Nova's Lounge - CD
(Nova 53 Records) If
you want to learn how to play drums and need a CD to practice with, this
one's for you my friend. An elementary drumbeat backed by a synthesizer
is what forms the core of all the tracks on this release. The disc begins
with a basic rhythm that sounds nothing more than someone doing a drumming
exercise. The tunes then morph into the techno and lite-jazz realm later
on in the CD, which once again features repetitive beats.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Chris Alleyne - Saturday's Hero - CD
(Devine Soul Records)
Chris Alleyne is a soul singer with a smooth and silky voice. I’m
not a huge fan of soul, but these songs really have that something special
and Chris’ voice and delivery are infectious. The lyrics all deal with personal
topics, his first child and missing a lost love.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Allison, Luther - Bad News is Coming - CD
(Universal Records)
Gut wrenching groovin' electric guitar blues. Damn is this CD good. From
the opening tune "The Little Red Rooster" this CD kept me jammin' all the
way through. Four bonus tracks are included on this release including a
smooth cover of "Sweet Home Chicago." For those of you who are into Eric
Clapton, you need to get this CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Allison, Luther - Pay it Forward - CD
(Ruf
Records) Hot damn, does this CD jam or what? Packed with soul-shattering
blues that packs one hell of a wallop, this release features 11 tunes (plus
one bonus jam) of Luther Allison laying it down with some of his
friends. The cover of "Dock of the Bay" with Muscle Shoals R-Section
is phenomenal. The minimal blues approach of "Nobody But You" with Patrick
Verbeke is blues in it's purest form. The intensity of "Just as I Am"
with Marla Glen makes you feel like you were right there in the audience.
Another fine release from the folks at Ruf Records.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
The Allman Brothers Band - A Decade of Hits 1969-1979 - CD
(Universal Records)
This is the band that made Gregg and Duane Allman as well as Dickey
Betts some of the most famous musicians in the 70's. This disc covers
a decade of the greatest hits that you can hear on any classic rock station
such as "Statesboro Blues", "Ramblin' Man", "Midnight Rider" and "Whipping
Post". If you like southern rock mixed with the blues and some extended
guitar leads then you'll love the Allman Brothers and probably own
a few of their releases. Personally they are one of the few bands of this
style that I actually like. I can't say I listen to this often, but at times
it just feels right.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)
Allman Brothers Band - Eat A Peach - 2CD
(Universal
Records) I’ve heard a few tunes by The Allman Brothers, but I
didn’t really know much about them besides their hits. So, when we got the
opportunity to review the (Deluxe Edition) of their breakthrough album,
I jumped at the opportunity. This double-disc release is made up of the
original recordings of Eat a Peach, while the other disc contains
songs from their final concert at the Filmore East in 1971. What I came
to realize is that my thoughts of their music as being Southern rock flavored
blues is right on. I also discovered that they like jamming…a lot. One track
on the Filmore East disc is over 20 minutes long, and there are more jam
tracks than that on this one disc.
Overall, I would have to say that while I like a few of their songs, can
admire the music they play can praise them for doing it so well, overall
it’s just not my cup-o-tea. If you’re looking for the hits, keep moving
on. If your looking for solid live Southern rock blues jams, then this is
for you.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Gregg Allman - The Best of Gregg Allman - CD
(Universal Records)
This is the greatest hits release from the ex-husband of Cher (whose
career somehow lingers on). These ten songs were released in the early and
mid 70's and it is evident by the blues southern rock feel. I remember hearing
a few of these while growing up especially "Midnight Rider". Gregg was most
famous for being part of the Allman Brothers band, but these recordings
proved that he could also go it alone. If you like classic rock or good
old blues rock then this is a sure thing for you.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Karrin Allyson - In Blue - CD
(Concord Records)
Hell Yes! I love getting in CD's like this to review, a release from an
artist that I have never heard of and it just absolutely blows me away.
As I closed my eyes and listened to this CD I was transported to a dark
and smoky bar that oozed cool. The feel of this disk reminded me a bit of
the jazz singer in the movie Short Cuts and I found myself wanting
to hear Karrin do the tune "To Hell with Love". This is a killer
Jazzy Blues CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
The Almost - Say This Sooner - CD
(Virgin Records)
This is a two song disc featuring two versions of "Say This Sooner". Both
are almost identical and they are great. It sounds like a mix of Jimmy
Eat World and Senses Fail with a touch of 30 Seconds to Mars.
Really good melodic punk pop with a bit of screamo thrown in for good measure.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Alphavox - Alphavox - CD
(Rich Paz) rch1313@aol.com This band has a poppy sound which just kind of
hangs there. It just really doesn't do anything for me. Like I said, it's
just there.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
The Alphabetical Order - I Am Magically Happening! - CD
(The Alphabetical
Order) This is one of those releases that's really hard to categorize.
It's like a post punk / college rock explosion full of songs that have take
a while to get used to listening. The melodies jump around and it's impossible
to casually listen to their songs. The Alphabetical Order demands
your attention and they assult your ears to get it. I'm sure many people
don't have the patience, but if you listen carefully you are treated to
a number of interesting experiences. Each song is like a journey into a
story about a far away land with people whose lives you never imagined.
At times I'm reminded of an updated Ziggy Stardust era Bowie,
like on "Dress Up, Dress Down". The one song that stuck in my head was "A
Mockery of Taste" with it's insanely catchy guitar line and glam rock chorus.
This band was a pleasant surprise and a great addition to my musical selection.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Alt Tal - Open the Gates - CD
(Alt Tal) "In
Review"
-- (2009)
Alternate Sound of Life - She Whispers Loud - CD
(ASL Music) This is
one of those bands that proves that technically proficient musicians don't
always make the best music. ASOL are amazing musicians and play very
intricate melodies fronted by just average vocals. However, most of the
songs seem a bit too clinical and not very emotional. It's like what happened
with the prog-rock movement when it entered the early 80s. If you are into
a lot of precise playing and music that sounds something like Coheed
and Cambria then maybe ASOL is for you.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Amelia - A Long, Lovely List of Repairs - CD
(Slow Down Records)
This is the kind of release I pray for when I pick up a band's release out
of the stack of CDs we get in to review. The music has a world music acoustical
feel on the opening tune "Enemigo". Combined with the female vocals and
foreign lyrics, it's a song that just makes you melt. The overall feel of
the CD brings the earlier work of Elenie Mandel to mind. I like the
fact that Amelia retains the folky feel throughout this release,
while the songs have enough diversity to them so the listener isn't sure
of what's coming next. There is much to be said about song arrangement on
a CD and pacing, and this release is a fine example of how to do it right.
I love the chuginess of the tune "Delores", the bounciness of "Eyesore"
and the subtle and softly sung "Cover the Leak", and I believe you will
be just as smitten with this band as I am once you give this CD a listen.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
John Amen - Rediculous Empire - CD
(Cool Midget) The
three things that came to mind as I listened to this release were: The
Dude from the Big Lebowski, Camper Van Beethoven and Joe
Walsh. I could see any other them being involved in this project even
though the quality did go down as the disc went on. Near the end it turned
into something akin to straight country with lame lyrics. Much of the music
had a later Neil Young feel to them and was very well done. Overall
it had a nice feel, but just went too far into the whole country aspect
of music and the lyricist seemed to run out ideas after a while and tried
to rely on basic AA-BB rhyming schemes even if the words didn’t make sense
in the context of the song.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
The American Plague - God Bless - CD
(Long Live
Crime Records) My first thoughts on hearing this music were "wow, this
music is primal!" and "is their cover of perennial Motorhead fave
"Ace of Spades" worth it?" The answer to both is a very aggressive yes...even
though the first one wasn't actually a question.
I've never heard of The American Plague, and neither have you, but they make the kind of music that would fit just fine were it played by the bar-band in some steamy post-apocalyptic cyberpunk film set in the Arizona desert. This is fine, fine hard rock music; it doesn't sound like they're trying to be anybody else, like so much of the schlocky garbage out there ruining teenagers' CD collections these days. The vocals are processed with some fairly subtle but decidedly futuristic chorusing or delay effect, right on time and on the mark pitch-wise. The drums are propelling and furious. The bass playing is nothing incredible but it keeps the whole thing grounded quite solidly. The guitar work is similarly nothing to write home about (though often the riffage is fantastic nonetheless, such as on the incredible "War Song"), yet it's energetic and fun and the sound is very nicely raw and edgy, capturing a great rocka-row vibe the whole time.
This is a band which straddles that fine line between hard rock and heavy metal with aplomb. Interestingly, their southern-fried maniacal jams never once hint at has-been Freebird-rock, instead churning out fiery Thin Lizzy, Motorhead and AC/DC -inspired heavy rock power-chords, blues-tinted E- and A- string riffs, and frenetic double-stops that would make rockabilly outlaws like Gene Vincent proud.
Not the most memorable band ever, though. As tight and intense as they are, the best that you'll be able to remember about them is that their licks smelled just like gasoline. I'd give it a hearty 6-and-a-half out of 10, and I eagerly anticipate the future offerings of this exciting band.
As for the "Ace of Spades" cover? It sounds like a lost track from the
Heavy Metal soundtrack: doomed-out space-metal with truly warped
vocal echo punctuating the mix. One to hear.
-- Jeremy Mutant (2006)
The American Plague - Heart Attack - CD
(Feedback
Sympony) "In Review"
-- (2008)
AMP 176 - Repo'd - CD
(Pshaw! Music) A
hard rockin' punk-pop outfit that will have you dancing around in your chucks.
The Minneapolis band really knows how to knock out a solid tune. Sorry for
including local band references, but AMP 176 reminded me of a combination
of the defunct Dayton bands Heike and the Barnhills. This
is just one of those bands that you can tell puts on a great live show just
by listening to the CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Ampline - The Choir - CD
(Tiberus Records)
Well I can say one thing...these guys are good musicians. They play really
good emo and edgy rock. The only thing I have a problem with are the vocals...because
there aren't any. This is entirely instrumental. It's OK for a song or two
but after that it becomes background music. Actually I started thinking
it was the score to an independent film, but that isn't the case. Come on
somebody, step up to the plate and give singing a shot...it isn't that bad.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Analog America - A Four Course Meal of Found Sound - CD
(Hollow Earth
Radio) This is basically a disc of found recorded phone conversations,
answering machine messages and a couple of songs. While I love the concept
on found art, I think the presentation could have been done better for this
release. It would have been cool if a narrative could have been worked out
with the recordings so that they would tell a story. I would also like to
hear more diverse recordings put into the mix. If you want to hear more
found sound projects then go to their site.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
The Anatomy of A Ghost - Evenesce - CD
What we WEAHHHHH!!!! Have here is a rock WEAHHHHHHH!!!! Guitar oriented
WEAHHHHHHH!!!! Band with male and (and at what I first thought was female,
but am wrong) WEAHHHHHHHH!!!!!! vocals trading off. WEAHHHHHHH!!!! When
I first started WEAHHHHH!!!! listening to this a heavy WEAHHHHHHHH!!!! rockin'
Ethyl Meatplow came to WEAHHHHHHHH!!!! mind. However, the more I
got into WEAHHHHHHHH!!!! the CD, I realized that all the WEAHHHHHHH!!!!
songs sounded the same, and the WEAHHHHHH!!!! screaming every few seconds
on WEAHHHHHHH!!!! every fuckin' song just had me WEAHHHHH!!!! thinking,
"This Sucks!!!" WEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Ancient Greeks - The Song is You - CD
(Flameshovel Records)
Repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks, repetition sucks,
repetition sucks. still reading? Then you might like this mellow band. Some
people might dig a cool riff or drum beat that is continuously used through
a song, but for me. repetition sucks.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
Anderson Brothers - Solid Blue - CD
(Anderson Brothers)
The Anderson Brothers are brothers who play the blues along with
some other fine blues musicians. This is decent straight forward blues from
Tennessee with nothing really special, but nothing bad either. If you like
the blues then you will like the Anderson Brothers.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Connie Kis Anderson - Once Again - CD
(Kismana Music)
Connie is a female country singer. The songs really aren't bad, but Connie's
voice isn't overly strong. I can see her doing well in a local bar or festival,
but not much more. The overall sound of this release is lite-country with
a few non-country covers thrown in. It's on these songs that you can really
tell Connie's weakness when it comes to her vocals. "You've Lost that Lovin'
Feelin'" and "Wicked Game" come off sounding like she was doing karaoke.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Kasey Anderson - The Reckoning - CD
(Terra Soul Records) The Reckoning starts off with a song that sounds like
a loner goth cowboy who just had a bad day. Dark, low, slow, mysterious
with a touch of the Old West. A great way to start off a release and pull
a person in so that they’ll want to see what it’s all about. The rest of
the release shows Kasey to be a true alt country player in the vein
of Ryan Adams, Todd Snider and Jeff Buckley. His songs
are great heartfelt rhythms fronted by his slightly gruff voice and charm
that radiates through lyrics. A few of the tracks touch a bit to close to
country for me like the honky-tonk based “Wake Up”, but overall it’s a nice
batch of alternative country.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Ryan Anderson - Trains Take Away Old Friends - CD
(Bi-Fi Records)
The cover, and even some of the songs, will remind you of Conor Oberst/Bright
Eyes. Don't let that shoo you away, because it's certainly not a bad
thing to have two of a good thing around, were that the case. (No, I do
not care one whit that Conor is considered passe by the overly critical
chic elite now). No matter if you don't like Bright Eyes, because
the only sonic Oberstness is the DIY, retro sound and the over-usage
of a nondescript (and probably cheap as hell) acoustic guitar and other
sporadic days-gone-by instrumentation (yes, that includes banjo and possibly
a harmonium). The Syd Barrett-isms are all over the place, something
completely absent - with good reason - from Oberst's albums. Check
out "The Names" - if that's not warped by Piper-era Floyd, then nothing
ever was nor will be. Yet it all works out in some strange way - though
don't get your hopes up; this isn't a peanut butter-meets-chocolate moment,
it's more like a warm paper sack full of wet hair: really unexpected and
jarring, but oddly comforting in its organic purity. "Get On Out" is classic
rambling DIY weirdness, with more bizarre echoes than you can shake a Thai
stick at. Most of the lyrics are pretty abnormal and full of hypnotically
sing-song rhyming. He can be wistful and sincere just as much as he can
be unnerving, but he's rarely actually incoherent. This cat is just plain
surreal, like Daniel Johnston, but with a (generally) fuller, more
accessible sound. I can totally see him opening for the Pixies somehow.
One can only hope he's getting the help he needs.
-- Jeremy Mutant (2006)
Ryan Anderson - The Garden Path - CD
(HHBTM Records) Ryan
has bits of Jeff Buckley and Elliot Smith in his style along
with a basic folk punk sensibility. The music is fairly basic acoustic guitar
led folk with a bit of percussion accompaniment with very dark vocals. The
first track "Railroad Killer Stomp" is my least favorite of the batch, not
because of the subject matter but because of the forced sounding lyrics.
I think Ryan has a way to go before he reaches the status of somebody
like Elliot Smith, but I think he is well on his way and has the
talent to get him there. Here's to dark folk punk music…it's my second favorite
type of folk after gothic folk ala Lauren Hoffman.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Andrews, David - Get Me Out of This Place - CD
(Siren Music) The
tunes on this release have a country/blues/folksy rock sound. David's voice
has a mellowness about it, even on the more rockin' songs. Pretty good.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
El Angel - Mexaton - CD
(3R Entertainment)
I was put off a bit when I started listening to this release. It wasn't
the rapping I had problems with, it was the amateur '80s synth sound of
the music which gave me pause. Luckily the rapping, while not great was
still good enough to keep me interested. Then featured rapper Columbo
showed his skills and I felt that there just might be something to this
release. My feelings kept going back and forth like this throughout the
whole disc. At times El Angel, played the part of the typical bad
rapper with the way he over enunciated the lyrics with feigned badass breathiness.
The other part of the time he was right on. And thankfully the music got
much better with each progressive song. The standouts include the title
track danceable "Mexaton," and the Yello sounding industrial dance
tune "X".
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Ruben Angel - Ruben Angel - CD
(Ruben Angel) This
is pure dance based pop. The first song made me think I had popped in a
Justin Timberlake disc and I don't even have any of his music (but
I have heard it). Some of the tracks like "Can I" and "So Sweet" are a lot
stronger than the others on the disc, but with a good producer these songs
could get pushed to the next level and find a home in any club. On a few
songs such as "Stand Back" he has a bit of the George Michael sound,
which isn't a bad thing. Some of the vocals seem a bit forced, but I really
have a hard time seeing much difference between Ruben and Justin.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
The Angels of Light - Everything is Good Here - CD
(Young
God Records) If I could sum up this release with one word, it would
be brooding. But then again what else would one expect from the lead man
of the Swans. Yes folks, Michael Gira is once again sharing
his unique music moodiness with the masses. With deep gothic vocals and
trudging music, visions of Nick Cave will come to mind. There was
also a bit of an Alien Sex Fiend feel about the second tune "All
Soul's Rising." For those who are familar with this Gira's music, you will
love this release. Everyone else will be a little freaked out.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
La'Mont Anthony - In My Comfort Zone - CD
(La'Mont Anthony)
La'Mont plays an updated style of funky R&B. It's like a late 70s
funk / soul band was transported thirty years into the future and La'Mont
put their soul into his synth and vocal chords. He plays all of the music
on this disc which is primarily synth variations and percussion, but he
carries it off with a nice smooth funky vibe. Hip, smooth and cool, what
more do you want?
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Anthrax - Madhouse: The Very Best of. - CD
(Universal Records)
Probably every review on this release is going to start with stating that
Anthrax (along with The Beastie Boys and Faith No More)
were at the forefront of the combination of rap and rock. With the Beasties
having more of a punk groove and Faith No More being more alternative
rock, Anthrax with their speed metal sound took the most aggressive
approach. It came to a head with the classic metal/rap collaboration "Bring
the Noise" with Public Enemy. While Anthrax will probably
always be known for their metal/rap sound, they are really a speed metal
band outside the norm and this release reminds us of that all so beautifully.
Get this release and know what it is to be caught in a mosh.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Any Day In June - Any Day In June - CD
(Matapop Records) Another
CD that starts off with a decent song, "Pedestrian", which is a sing-songy
tune where male and female vocals trade off. It is a bit repeatitive, but
still pretty decent. From there the disc just misserable falls aparts. The
rest of the CD the male & female vocals switch on every other tune. The
vocals are muddled, off key and just overall weak.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
AO Music - Twirl - CD
(AO Music) “FILE UNDER
World/New Age” says the sticker on the back of this CD, and that’s pretty
much what you get, new age music infused with different beats, instruments
and voices from cultures around the world. The use of world voices reminded
me a bit of Deep Forest. However, singing and song structure on the
tracks that make up this release are more Westernized overall with the new
age part playing the dominate role and thus watering down the world part
of the songs make-up. In the sense that this is a new age CD it shines nicely,
but as a world disc not so much.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
Aoede - Push and Pull - CD
(Aoede Muse Music)
I liked the music on this release. There's a slight grittiness to it, almost
like a more melodic Yeah Yeah Yeahs. However, I feel that the female
vocals and lyrics don't have the punch that the music deserves. The end
result is that the songs on this release just aren't memorable.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
AOMusic - CD
“FILE UNDER World/New Age” is what is on the sticker on the back of this
CD, and that’s pretty much what you get, new age music infused with different
beats, instruments and voices from cultures around the world. The use of
world voices reminded me a bit of Deep Forest. However, singing and
song structure on the tracks that make up this release are more Westernized
overall with the new age part playing the dominate role and thus watering
down the world part of the songs' makeup. In the sense that this is a new
age CD it shines nicely, but as a world disc not so much.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
The Apparitions - Oxygen Think Tank - CD
(The
Apparitions) From the opening lyric, visions of Pere Ubu came
to mind. The Apparitions have a quirky late '80s/early '90s sound with distinctive
vocals, which is the main reason they remind me of Ubu. The second
tune on the release, "Avto Caastastropa," is a perfect combination of all
the goodness that makes this CD flow so well overall. This is the perfect
CD for when you just want to groove.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Applicators,The - What's Your Excuse - CD
(Cornerstone RAS / Skunk)
Harder, rocked-out version of local favorites Shesus. Lots of distorted
guitar and raw girl energy. Four tough-lookin' chicks belt out 12 rip your
arms off Ramones flavored rock. There seem to be a slew of female bands
such as this since the Donnas have developed such a buzz. The
Applicators are one of the better bands in this genre.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
India.Arie - Acoustic Soul - CD
(Universal Music
Company) I've said on other reviews that I'm really not a big fan or
R&B. This is mostly due to that the R&B I'm most exposed to is the type
that's played on pop radio stations. It's like in the past when I really
didn't like jazz, because the only jazz I knew was Kenny G. India
Arie is an R&B singer that I can get into. One reason for this is that
I wouldn't really classify the music as pure R&B, it also has elements of
folk and soul to it as well. Hence the title of the CD Acoustic Soul.
India's vocals are soft and smooth and seem to glide out of the speakers
and around the room. I like that while she has the strong vocal ability
she doesn't feel the need to show them off by doing the vocal acrobatics
that so many other artists do and annoys me to no end. My favorite song
on this release is "Brown Skin" and judging by the 3 remixes of this tune
on the bonus CD it's other people's favorite as well. Other standout's include
"Video" and "Strength, Courage & Wisdom" both of which appear on the bonus
CD as well.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Arma Secreta - A Century's Remains - CD
(Smith Seven Records)
This CD starts off with a rage that reminds me of Patti Smith’s “Piss
Factory” which morphs into a guitar and vocal driven alternative madness.
They almost come off as A.F.I.’s kid brother. However, the further
into the CD you go the more they start sounding like a solid punk band,
ala Hot Water Music. While their music is rock solid and they sound
great, no one song really stood out. It’s like there is that missing ingredient
which makes the soup go from good to great. The challenge for me and ultimately
for this band is finding out exactly what that ingredient is.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Louis Armstrong - Gold - 2CD
(Universal
Records) Wow, over 130 minutes of the deep baratone vocals and trumpet
of Louis Armstong. For the unknowing Armstrong is known as
one of the founding fathers of jazz and had a very long and interesting
career. This disc captures all sides of it; from the sappy, yet endearing
"What A Wonderful World" to the playful homicide song "(I'll
Be Glad When You're Dead) You Rascal You". I tend to like his harder
jazz songs than his watered down pop songs, but when played in the background
it is a wonderful groove to have backing you up. Louis Armstrong
was an amazing talent and this double disc lets you dip into the mind of
a genius.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Aaron Aronson - Adam's Ale - CD
(Adam's Ale) Once you
get past the horrible production where layers of instrumentation drown each
other and the vocals out and make every song sound muddy, you are left with
jerky hurdy gurdy vocals that just don't cut it.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Alex Arrowsmith - Applewine - CD
(Ectoplasmic Records)
Alex Arrowsmith is a singer / songwriter in the vein of Ben Folds,
with a very quirky way with lyrics. I guess you could say he even has a
touch of Weird Al, which in my opinion is a positive thing. Nice,
laid-back college rock with a sense of humour and effortless talent. One
of the funniest/quirkiest songs is "Coldplay Got Eaten By Piranhas",
which is the singer's bad day made worse when he found out the news that
Coldplay got eaten by piranhas. Most of the songs continue on this
route, with a few clunkers along the way, but nothing to make me avoid this
release. A nice refreshing blast of fun.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Arruga, D., Lombardo & Friends - Vivaldi: The Meeting - CD
(Thirsty Ear) The
whole concept behind this recording was to get a heavy metal drummer, Dave
Lombardo, to improvise to music by the great classical composer Vivaldi.
The liner notes for the CD say "these musicians have come up with what may
ultimately be the beginnings of a new form". First off, just listen to a
little bit of Queen, or many of the other artist who experimented
with such sounds in the seventies and you will see what you are trying to
accomplish has been done before and done well. Second, the improvised drumming
doesn't fit in with these classical pieces at all. Well that's not entirely
true. When Dave decides to play soft and with the music, utilizing a delicate
sweep of the cymbal or a light touch on the drumheads, then it does work.
But when he goes out for the full out drum solo (which is mixed too much
in front of the other instruments) then you have something that just sucks.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
The ARS Supernova - Lumina - CD
(The ARS
Supernova) "In Review"
-- (2009)
The Arts And Sciences - Hopeful Monsters - CD
(Daemon
Records) This band is more on the mellow end of the spectrum. The music
is calming alternative, while the vocals have a quiet Michael Stipe
quality about them. If you're stressed out and just want to chill, this
is the disc for you.
-- Mite Mutant (2005)
Ashbrook Haynes - One Long Chase - CD
(Ashbrook Haynes)
This is roots rock / country with a touch of blues and while it's well done
it's not my thing. The overall music is clean and simple with a good beat
and the right hooks on the choruses. My biggest problem, other than it being
country, are that the voices are a bit rough. I like the mixed male / female
vocals, but they just seem a bit weak - what you'd expect after a booze
soaked set at 2 am. If you are into this style, then by all means check
out Ashbrook Haynes and you'll probably be pleasantly surprised.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Ashia - Pay To Be Loved - CD
(Ashia) While
I love this CD, I'm going to have to say that having a CD of nothing but
voice and cello is just too much at times. The songs sound like they would
be best as the tunes that help break up the pace of a CD filled with multi-instrument
releases. But like I said, I love this release. Ashia combines the
vocal sensibilities of Elenie Mandel and the avant-garde musical
approach of The Dresden Dolls with the intensiveness of P.J. Harvey.
How could this not be good? Standouts include the title track, "Pay to Be
Loved" as well as "Nomanmad" and "Ne Me Quitte Pas". So while this isn't
a CD I would listen to all the way through repeatedly, the songs are a definite
addition to my MP3 mix.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Ashley Park - The Secretariat Motor Hotel - CD
(Happy
Happy Birthday to Me Records) Imagine being transported to a strange
new world where everything is made out of gray clay. The trees are gray
blobs. The houses are gray blobs. And in the world of Ashley Park,
the music is a gray blob. At first the music is interesting in its grayness,
but limiting your sound to one color without shading or highlights, and
the sound gets boring very quickly.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Asia - The Definitive Collection - CD
(Universal
Records) I have two words to describe ASIA – Guilty Pleasure.
Their music is lite rock and a bit whimpish, but you know what? Hardly anyone
will turn the dial on the radio station when one of their songs comes on.
No, what they will do is start singing along hoping no one sees or hears
them. This release contains such goodness as “Sole Survivor,” “Here Comes
The Feeling,” and “Heat of the Moment.” The big surprise I found on this
disc is the final tune “Go” which is a killer tune that I’ve never heard
before. So go on and flaunt your soft side, get Asia: The Definitive
Collection. And if you are still a bit embarrassed, just tell people
you heard about the band while watching the movie The 40-Year-Old Virgin
and leave it at that.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Astronauts of Antiquity - Rocket Science for Dummies - CD
(Astronauts
of Antiquity) "In Review"
-- (2009)
Astrophagus - For Boating - CD
(Helmetroom Recordings)
The songs on this release had me picturing a person dragging their feet
while walking slowly down a dirt road with their hands in their pocket and
head hung low. It almost makes Eeyore seem like Rip Taylor in comparison.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Athens Boys Choir - Rhapsody in T - CD
(Daemon Records)
This is a spoken word / poetry slam release featuring two transgender individuals.
Most of their words have to do with the problems and injustices of this
country in reference to gay/lesbian/transgender people. I feel that Katz
is the better of the two as far as words, style and flow. They both bring
up a few issues I've never had to think about and I do feel are important.
But just when I started to think this was a serious political type release
they show their humor by doing a version of Sir Mix-A-Lot's "Baby
Got Back" redone as "Trannies Got Pack".
-- Grog Mutant (2004)
The Atlantic Manor - All The Best Girls Have Winter Hearts - CD
(Do Too / 3950
Club Records) Listening to this release was like an exercise in drudgery.
The melodic piano driver music is repetitive and seems to go on forever.
This is obvious from the opening tune “Desperation” which logs in over 6-minutes
of repetition before the less than stellar vocals kick in. Next.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
The Atlantic Manor - On the Wrong Side of A Saturday Night - CD
(Do Too Records)
While I do agree that the vocals are the weakest link in this band I think
they did themselves a disservice by mixing them so low. The guitar, piano
and drum work is very nice, sparse and haunting, but having to strain to
hear the vocals just gets annoying. The vocals are a bit Joe Cockerish
to me, but without the emotion. Just kind of soft and mumbly, but they still
work with the songs. I think that The Atlantic Manor would have a
great alt country and soft indie rock appeal if they would just learn how
to mix the vocals in line with everything else, especially the guitar.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Audiocrash - Time Sensitive Material - CD
(Audiocrash)
Audiocrash is a two man team with a backup band to help them along. The
overall feel of this release is that the songs are acoustical in nature,
but given a rockin' makeover. The music in itself is good, but I'm still
on the fence with the lyrics, and the vocals could use some improvement.
They remind me of a cross between Lach and Neil Diamond for some reason,
the only difference is that when Audiocrash starts to put emphasis on a
line, ala Bruce Springsteen, you can hear the cracking in the vocals. It
just doesn't sound good. This is a band I would go see, but wouldn't buy
the CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Scott August - Lost Canyons - CD
(Cedar Mesa Music)
Out of the few people I’ve heard play Native American “Anasazi” flutes I
would say I enjoy Scott August the best. It’s not just his style
and technique it’s the fact that he blends his instrument in with many others
to create a full world beat style production. Some songs are a lone flute,
but most have instruments from around the globe to give the songs greater
depth and texture. The perfect bit of background music to relax with or
even listen to closely due to the intricate layering. A great release by
a master of ambient and world music.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Cara Austin - Send Me - CD
(Cara Austin) "In
Review"
-- (2009)
Automorrow - Automorrow - CD
(Automorrow)
"In Review"
-- (2009)
Avail - One Wrench - CD
(Fat Wreck Chords)
Avail is one of the best melodic hardcore bands I've ever hear. I
recall hearing their album Dixie for the first time. I kept it in
my player for weeks and now when I need a lift, I pop it in and hear some
of the best motivational music I have ever heard. I think the only thing
I don't like about Avail is that our thoughts on capitalism are different.
Still they rock out and I love it.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)
Avenpitch - Butterfly Radio - CD
(Omega Point
Records) I really want to hate this electro pop/punk band, with the
annoying whining vocals and horrible rhyming/rap skills. Unfortunately,
I can't, they have really catchy hooks that I kind of like. This only happens
in a few songs, however, "A Safer Car," "Jack the Idiot Dance," "Dusseldorf,"
and "Smitten." The other six songs on the album really suck. The "catchy
hooks" lose their appeal and meet the abnoxious repetitious point, as do
his vocals.
-- Lola (2006)
El Aviador Dro - Electronico! (Best of 1978-2006) - CD
(Omega Point
Records) This Spanish synth group has been around since 1978. So after
26+ years of churning out a wide range of infectious synth goodness in their
homeland, they are finally ready to let the people of the United States
hear what we've been missing. Being that they have been around for so long,
this retrospective CD runs the gambit of electronic rock; starting with
catchy '80s pop and ending with dance club rhythms. "La tevevisión es nutritiva"
has the Devo quirkiness to it, while "Vortex" takes a Devo
song structure and makes it dancy. "La zona fantasma" and "La ciudad en
movimiento" have a poppier New Order feel about them. The band explores
German electronica with "Baila la guerra" and "Ella perdió el control",
I can hear a strains of Kraftwork in the latter. Front 242
is the reference I'm using for the tune "Trance", and I can swear they infused
the spirit of David Byrne on the Talking Heads sounding "La
única solución es la venganza".
The best thing I like about this band is while they are able to infuse
a myriad of music styles into their songs, the overlaying sound is still
all their own. And to keep doing that for so many years is astounding. America,
the time has come to experience the sound of El Aviador Dro.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Aviso'Hara - Our Lady Of The Highway - CD
(Vitalcog Records)
It took a couple of listens before I could really appreciate the sound of
this Weezer inspired band. This rock band has a fun poppy feel with
hints of Guided by Voices. It's a pretty good album, if you take
a listen and don't like it a first, don't give up, it will grow on you.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)
Avoid One Thing - Avoid One Thing - CD
(Side One Dummy)
I was listening to this release and wondering why they sounded a bit familiar.
Then I looked at the press kit and found who was in the band. Avoid One
Thing features Joe Gittleman (Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Gang Green),
Dave Karcich (Spring Heeled Jack, Pilfers), Amy Griffin (Raging
Teens) and Paul Delano (Darkbuster, Mungs) together in one totally
kick ass band. They have a great sound and just rage...get this disk now!
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Jason Ayres - The Acoustic Sessions - CD
(Jason Ayers) Jason
is an Aussie and has a slight accent to his voice, but I really though he
sounded most like the singer for the great British band Space. Part
of it was the accent, but he really does have a similar inflection to his
voice. Overall I was very impressed by this acoustic disc. With just his
voice and guitar Jason filled up the song with his rhythm and song
writing ability. At times he'd break into a falsetto, which I could have
lived without hearing, but that is about the only criticism that I have
with Jason Ayers' great release.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)