CD Review: Soundside - Seconds From Sunrise

Soundside - Seconds From Sunrise
2008, Soundside

New York City power-pop outfit Soundside released their third album, Seconds From Sunrise in 2008. The album is a return to the edgier rock sound from 2004’s A Day Without Change (their debut). Produced by Angus Cooke (The Ataris), Seconds From Sunrise places Soundside on the cusp of breaking free from their status as a regional band.

Seconds From Sunrise opens with My Bullet, My Baby. In spite of the slightly macabre title, this is a catchy, upbeat tune that has real radio potential. It establishes the sound that Soundside presents throughout Seconds From Sunrise: Big choruses full of harmonies, dynamic bridges and a high energy level that is infectious. I personally enjoyed Great Barrier Reef, a theatric piece of balladeering that stands out mightily. The crunchy guitar-pop of In Harm's Way is also quite welcome here. These three songs demonstrate the dynamic range that Soundside is capable of, and it is a range that most modern rock bands do not approach.

Soundside is part Collective Soul, part Gin Blossoms and part Pearl Jam. Add it all together and they really do not sound like anyone else. Soundside has created its own sound that should fare very well on modern rock and/or adult-alternative radio. Other highlights on Seconds From Sunrise include Espana, Driving On Empty, Catch Phrase, and Chasing The Real.

Seconds From Sunrise is a great rock and roll album. While many bands in today's market are creating hybrid sounds to try to catch a piece of market share, Soundside shows there's still life in rock.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about Soundside check out www.myspace.com/soundside. You can purchase a copy of Seconds From Sunrise at www.cdfreedom.com/artists/soundside.

CD Review: Harlan Mark Vale - Bright Angel

Harlan Mark Vale - Bright Angel
2008, Pillars Of Light Music

Bright Angel is something of a sonic landscape. It's a series of watercolors in piano that represent the daydreams of Harlan Mark Vale. The compositions themselves do not so much take the listener anywhere as live in the moment and noodle where they may. The music is contemplative, like light rain in a puddle or dew on the grass. This is not music that will grab you, but music you must surrender control to in order to enjoy. There aren't specific highs and lows to point to. Bright Angel ebbs and flows like the ocean -- by the time you've noticed the crest you're part way to the trough, and vice versa.

Bright Angel is a mellow and reserved flash of beauty, lapping at your ankles as you walk along the water's edge. Harlan Mark Vale is but the curator, interpreting his vision into sound.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about Harlan Mark Vale check out www.harlanmarkvale.com. You can purchase Bright Angel at www.cdbaby.com/cd/harlanmarkvale.

CD Review: Carol Martini - The Rose In The Boxcar

Carol Martini - The Rose In The Boxcar
2005, Carol Martini

Carol Martini has been playing music since she was 11 years old, and continues to play weekly a coffee houses, college campuses, etc. The Rose In The Boxcar is her fourth album, and is a loving dedication to her father. The album requires a careful listen.

This is an album I have very mixed feelings about. On the one hand, it's a very honest and open album. The songs are straight from Martini's heart and raw. There's no artifice or pulled punches in her songs. This is refreshing in some respects, but the lyrics on The Rose In The Boxcar lack subtlety or panache. Some of the songs here have wonderful sentiment, but the lyrics border on annoying. A prime example is Bless This Heart, which should be a wonderful tribute to a Dad, but instead becomes difficult to listen to because of the lyrics.

Martini does find her voice on Never Going To Say Goodbye, which shows a somewhat more reserved and poetic approach to writing for most of the song. The other thing that detracts from the recording somewhat are vocal pitch problems that show up periodically from Martini. While this may be more authentic, it is not the sort of thing one expects on a professionally recorded finished CD. The other song highlight is A Storm Is In The Air, which is a plus song.

If you are into campfire folk music, or open-mike night burgeoning songwriters, then The Rose In The Boxcar might pique your interest. The emotional honesty and lack of pretension here will be refreshing to some, but for most readers it will be a pass. Carol Martini displays tremendous heart in this recording, and has a keen sense of good subject matter for her songs. Some lyrical refinement and additional time in front of audiences may help her to become a more well-rounded songwriter in the long run. There are flashes of humor here that suggest she might have the potential to be a Christine Lavin-like songwriter, but not yet.

Rating: 1.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Carol Martini at www.carolmartini.net. You can purchase a copy of The Rose In The Boxcar at www.cdbaby.com/cd/carolmartini.

CD Review: Second Dan - Bringing Down Goliath

Second Dan - Bringing Down Goliath
2008, Second Dan

Second Dan was an Australian band that mostly got left behind. The band decided to move to New York City to try to make it. Singer/Songwriter Dan Rosen came first only to find out after he was here that the rest of the band wasn’t going to come. Rather than be bereft, Rosen rebuilt Second Dan from some of New York City’s finest musicians. Now 2008 sees Bringing Down Goliath, an aptly name return.

Bringing Down Goliath is a jumble of feel-good, guitar-driven rock & pop songs. It has a very organic feel, like friends sitting around and jamming on songs they all know and love. The listener is left with the impression of a band that is making music for the pure joy of making music. A prime example is I Met A Girl, with a crunchy guitar motif that drives the song like warm weather and good friends on a Saturday night. Bringing Down Goliath is chock full of feel-good Rock N Roll. Highlights include Love And Innocence, Everything Is Good, Forget To Remember and Duwachuwant.

Second Dan shines a bright light in an industry that seems to love its ironic, sardonic and vaguely depressed rock stars. Bringing Down Goliath displays the same sort of feel-good energy and down home comfort as the best of Bob Seger's recordings. It's a definite Rock N Roll Party record.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Second Dan at www.seconddan.com. You can purchase Bringing Down Goliath at www.cdbaby.com/cd/seconddan.

CD Review: Kinderjazz - The One For Me

Kinderjazz - The One For Me
2007, Christobel Llewellyn

Kinderjazz has been offering up their brand of jazz for youth for many years. Part musical entertainment and part educational experience, Kinderjazz is truly something to behold onstage. Kinderjazz definitely leans toward the Latin side of the Jazz spectrum, and crosses the line into meringue and salsa at times along the way. The One For Me is a continuation of what they've done all along. That's Fine is a hot number that will have the little ones (and their parents) moving to the music. Playtime Blues is a little melodramatic, but a fair introduction to big band blues. Orange Pear Samba is a cute number and Secret Tuba Business has a James Bond for children feel to it.

The One For Me is a solid children's album. It’s definitely age appropriate for toddlers to tweens, although you may find the adults in the house like the album more than the kiddies.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Kinderjazz at www.kinderjazz.com. You can purchase The One For Me at www.cdbaby.com/cd/kinderjazz4.

CD Review: Drifting In Silence - fallto

Drifting In Silence - fallto
2008, Labile Records

Derrick Stembridge is an artisan of ambient sound. In the person of Drifting In Silence the Chicago native displays an affinity for looping rhythms and Floydian tones, backed up against new age soundscapes. On fallto, he ads to the lush sonic arc with vocal wash and contrapuntal rhythms. Derrick Stembridge is your tour guide on an ambient river where you might know the twists and turns, but the currents and eddies reach up to surprise you from the depths.

Ambient as a genre is an easy place to get lost. It is easy to become mesmerized with your own sounds and lose sight of the vision that led you there. Not so with Drifting In Silence's third album, fallto. Stembridge is 100% on his game in traversing the Ambient ocean and transporting the listener to new lands. Highlights include unknowndivide, which features Jess Hewitt of Drev, chameleon and closure.

fallto sees the continuation of a journey begun on 2005's Truth and continued on 2006's Laddertown. One suspects that the continued growth and flow of Stembridge's muse will open up new avenues of musical discovery in future releases. For now, sit back and enjoy the aural joy of fallto.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about Drifting In Silence check out www.driftinginsilence.com or www.myspace.com/driftinginsilence. You can purchase fallto at www.cdbaby.com/cd/driftingis4.

CD Review: David Grissom - Loud Music

David Grissom - Loud Music
2007, David Grissom

You've heard David Grissom, or at least his songs, many times without knowing who he is. Grissom has spent years as a session guitarist for some of the elites in the music business. He has worked with the likes of The Allman Brothers, The Dixie Chicks, John Mellencamp, Joe Ely, Chris Isaak, Robben Ford, Ringo Starr, Buddy Guy, John Mayall and Montgomery Gentry (just to name a few). His songs have been recorded by the likes of Tricia Yearwood, John Mayall, Storyville and Lee Ann Womack. After years of supporting other artists, David Grissom decided in 2007 to release his debut album of original material. Loud Music is the result, and you better be ready to rock and roll.

Grissom is known for making intense music, and Loud Music does not veer away from his trademark sound. The album opens with the motivated instrumental Lonesome Dave, and moves quickly into the country rocker Loud Music. This song could easily be a top ten country hit, and would have real potential to cross over on the rock charts. (Let's just say that if someone like Garth Brooks ever covered this song it would sell a few million copies). Wide Lode is gentle shredder of an instrumental, working off a killer guitar riff and syncopated bass line to make you want to get up and dance.

Other highlights include the harmonica-laden Hi-Tex, Nothing Makes A Man Go Crazy, Boots Likes To Boogie and Midnight Drive. David Grissom is something of a revelation here. It is not unusual for session players with tremendous musical skill to not be able to transition to the front of the band, for any one of hundred reasons. Grissom has no such difficulty, and sounds like he was meant to be out in front and behind the mic. Loud Music should wind up on some critics end of year lists, and with the country/rock hybrid has the potential to appeal to different constituencies of music fans.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about David Grissom at www.davidgrissom.com. You can purchase a copy of Loud Music at www.cdbaby.com/cd/davidgrissom.

CD Review: Darrin James Band - Thrones Of Gold

Darrin James Band - Thrones Of Gold
2006, Darrin James

Brooklyn’s Darrin James Band wastes no time. Thrones Of Gold bolts right out of the gate with Trivial, a seeming call out and beat down to a former colleague (I don't see you in any of my future bands). Trivial is a classic southern rock/rhythm and blues hybrid that would make .38 Special green with envy. Trivial will definitely get stuck in your noggin. Duct Tape moves on to a delicious R&B/blues vibe with some amazing Hammond organ work. The title track, Thrones Of Gold, has a bit of an alt-country feel to it that seems entirely nature for Darrin James, with some wonderful pick-guitar work.

James seems to have taken in all of the musical styles of the American South and rolled them into his own hybrid Americana. Even the vindictively misogynist Only A Woman grows from this musical patois without seeming out of place. Darrin James seems to write songs in the same ilk as Randy Newman, where the songs are more windows into the lives of others. James seems to capture the essence of a different person or personality with each song, a little like a short story writer who likes caricature.

Had Enough Of Me opens with Honky-Tonk piano and turns into a gin-joint blues tune that just won't leave you alone. The song is infectious and will traipse across your consciousness at odd times once you've heard it. Hate That Word is classic Americana that deals with a man's fear of the word "Love". Other highlights include B3 laden Crazy World, the Dust In The Wind like epic Herie, the bluegrass Dusty Road, and the ultimately hopeful Lucky Man.

After hearing all of the dark portraits that Darrin James paints on Thrones Of Gold, he reveals ultimately himself on this last song. Darrin James is part Randy Newman, part Bruce Springsteen, and 100% original. In a different time in the music industry James would be writing the terms of his own contract with a major label. As it is he's more accessible and writing incredible music. I have to admit that this CD surprised me, as the first time I listened to it I just didn't connect with it. But then I sat down and gave it a second listen. The lesson is that with the Darrin James Band you need to really listen to the music and to what he has to say. He's a little too deep to get on a casual listen, and just too good to miss. Add Thrones Of Gold to the list of Wildy's World's Desert Island Discs.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about Darrin James Band, check out www.darrinjamesband.com. You can purchase a copy of Thrones Of Gold at www.cdbaby.com/cd/darrinjamesband.

CD Review: Crocodile - The Great Depression

Crocodile - The Great Depression
2008, Crocodile

Cousins, a husband and wife, piano, synthesizers and a studio caught in the middle of an Oklahoma City gang war. This is the backdrop from which springs The Great Depression, the debut EP from Crocodile. Sweet syrupy pop ensues, sounding something like Kevin Hearn era Barenaked Ladies with a female vocalist. Crocodile has been lauded by CMJ and Sonicbids, and I guarantee that you'll be next.

Opening with The Dinosaur, singer Rachael Brown sets the tone, surfing the waves of synth and keyboard with killer vocals. August Is Over sounds it walked right off of a BNL record. We Speak For Everyone has an eighties sound to it, with synthesizer picking up the faux-guitar part while also providing carillon instrumentation.

Something To Be Proud Of of sounds more like a guitar rock tune that in this care is driven by synthesizers and distortion, all with a faux string section. Derek Brown pitches in vocals on Pageant (as well as We Speak For Every). This again has a strong 80's pop feel to it ala Mike & The Mechanics. The last track is called Two Other Numbers, and appears to be more of a sonic experiment that resolves into a song. The opening is a bit of cacophony that I didn't enjoy a great deal, but the song itself was quite pleasant to listen to.

Crocodile is a little bit different than your usual rock band. They have a bit of syrupy sweetness to them and great pop sensibilities. They seem to like to see what they can tease out of the various keyboards/synthesizers they play. This is almost a distraction at times, but on the whole the result is a rather tasty pop treat. The Great Depression is a classy if ironically named debut, and bodes well for the future of Crocodile.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Crocodile at www.myspace.com/crocodilemusic. You can purchase downloads of The Great Depression from Amazon, eMusic, Rhapsody or through the band’s MySpace page (link above)

CD Review: Mike Farris - Salvation In Lights

Mike Farris - Salvation In Lights
2007, INO Records

Gospel is the original music of praise & worship. Great examples of exultant music exist in the Anglican and Catholic traditions, but American Gospel music found a way to turn joy and sadness into an expression of love and worship that's been unmatched before or since. Modern gospel often misses the most essential elements of the classical form, as Gospel itself has become a marketing point. Luckily there are people like Mike Farris out there, who everyone once in a while bring us back to the roots of gospel. Farris goes one step further -- he returns us to the roots of Gospel and then modernizes it in a way that is fresh and yet stays true to the original vibe. Salvation In Lights displays how it is possible to keep the spirit of Gospel alive and vibrant in 21st Century America.

You may be surprised to know that Mike Farris is not only a former member of The Screamin’ Cheetah Wheelies, but also of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Double Trouble. His fascination/love of gospel music grew out of his recovery from drug addiction. Farris seems to feel that God gave him a second chance in sobriety, and Salvation In Lights is in some ways his attempt at giving back.

Farris has one of the most soulful voices I've ever heard. The man can sing with the best of them, and brings a warm timbre that's part Seal and part Otis Redding to his witness. The arrangements on Salvation In Lights are original and full of life -- the perfect complement to Farris' voice. The set starts out with Sit Down Servant, with full gospel choir. It's an ideal choice to open with, as it will call you in whether your purpose is worship or just to hear great music. Streets Of Gallilee is a lively tune with some incredible jazz flavored piano playing underneath. Oh Mary Don't You Weep updates the gospel classic while staying true to the original.

Precious Lord, Take My Hand plays as a honky-tonk tune that seems just as at home on Saturday night as Sunday morning. Make sure to check out Can't No Grave Hold My Body Down, which starts out with a groove very similar to Mustang Sally. Other significant tunes here are Change Is Gonna Come, Selah! Selah!, and the Staples Singers I'll Take You There. Salvation In Lights closes with I'm Gonna Get There, a neo-Motown sound complete with Stax-style horns.

The material on Salvation In Lights is well-chosen. Not a song seems out of place. Farris himself is a force majeure; he is the sort of singer where you'd gladly pay to hear him sing the phonebook. Here he is both moved and magnified by the songs he sings and the result is magical. And let's not forget the supporting cast. You will not find a finer backup unit anywhere. If there is anyone who can bring Gospel music fully into the popular music realm its Mike Farris. Salvation In Lights is sublime -- a Desert Island Disc, and comes with Wildy's World's highest recommendation.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Mike Farris, check out www.mikefarrismusic.net. You can purchase an autographed copy of the album through his website, currently for $9.99. It is also available at cdbaby.com/cd/mikefarris2/from/crucd, Amazon.com, and most major music retailers, although it may be a special order.

CD Review: Cakehole Presley - Cakehole Presley EP

Cakehole Presley – Cakehole Presley EP
2007, Christopher Ridgeway

Cardiff, Wales is the home base of the unusually named band Cakehole Presley. Chris Ridgeway (vox, guitar, harmonica), Marke Huphres (bass, vocals), Al McLean (guitar) and Alka Jones (drums) make up this dreamy little folk-rock outfit. Starting from influences such as The Beatles and Woody Guthrie, Cakehole Presley craft songs full of the ugly bumps of life, and ultimately find a way to illuminate their beauty. Their self-titled debut EP, Cakehole Presley, is a journey into the real world as seen from the corner stool in your neighborhood pub. The results are sublime.

Cakehole Presley delivers a mellow folk-rock sound that is comfortable and fun to listen to. The EP opens with Skipping Clouds, a stripped down daydream of song that settles over you like a warm summer breeze. Gotta Know Your Name is the ultimate song of romantic fascination (I've got to know your name because I love your face / My how you brighten up this place). There's a Dylan-esque feel to this one that is only partly the harmonica. This is the sort of song that should appear in a romantic comedy about a chance meeting between the inevitable romantic couple.

Borrowed Time takes a little darker turn. I heard it as the musing of a sorrowful stranger at the pub down the road who wants to tell you his sad stories over a pint. It's actually quite a brilliant song. Me & You is a rueful tune that has a bit of a Traveling Wilburies feel to it. Sweet Dreams (Little Darlings) is a bit of a of a humanistic drinker's prayer, and could be sung by the blokes at the bar on a Saturday night after the young and glamorous have departed. The closer, Small Ideas, may be one of the most simple and gorgeous pop/folk songs you'll come across. Small Ideas is worth the cost of the disc, even if you don't like the rest. But you will.

There's a rueful sorrow that runs throughout Cakehole Presley's self-titled EP that is matched only by the sense of hope against hope. It's anachronistic and contradictory and flawed and ultimately beautiful, just like life. This innocent EP sits at the junction where music becomes art becomes life becomes music once again, all in twenty-six minutes. After hearing the debut EP I find myself incredibly impatient to hear what comes next. You will be too.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Cakehole Presley at www.myspace.com/cakeholepresley. You can purchase a copy of the Cakehole Presley EP at www.cdbaby.com/cd/cakeholerepsley.

CD Review: Rich Driver - Rich Driver

Rich Driver - Rich Driver
2008, Rich Driver

Sacramento, CA based singer/songwriter Rich Driver has released his debut album, entitled Rich Driver, in 2008. The songs here have been written over the past five years, and infuse alt-country, jazz and reggae into a traditional rock sound. Driver uses humor and adept songwriting to tackle issues pertaining to love, loss, the minutiae of day-to-day life and popular culture.

Rich Driver is not just a singer-songwriter; he is a performer. There is an effusive energy that one encounters with his self-titled debut. The disc is bright and warm with big jangly guitar, easy-on-the-ear vocals, and great melodies. The set opens with Holiday, and shows that Driver easily belongs in a class with elite singer-songwriters. Other highlights include Free Time, Messages and Don't Bother Me.

Rich Driver's self-titled debut is an absolute treat. Here's a place to find great rock songs in their simplest, unadorned form. The energy and musicality here is unusual for the recorded format, and suggests that Driver's live performances may be a must-see. Get your hands on this disc.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Rich Driver at www.myspace.com/richdriver. There is a link on his MySpace page to purchase downloads of the album. At this time I cannot locate any links to purchase a hard-copy CD. Keep checking his website to see if that changes.

CD Review: The Midway State - Holes

The Midway State - Holes
2008, Equator Records/Interscope

Toronto's The Midway State is something completely different in today's Modern Rock environment. The first thing you'll notice is the amazing vocals of Nathan Ferraro. He brings a smooth and urgent sound to the microphone that is reminiscent of some of the big mellow-rock bands of the 1980's (A-Ha, Air Supply, etc.). Once you get past the voice (it might take a few listens), you'll hear the huge emphasis on piano. This brings fullness of sound that many guitar-driven rock bands miss out on or make up for with distortion and effects. The effect is a laid back wall-of-sound effect that will wash you away. The harmonies are amazing and perfectly complement Ferraro's lead vocals. Wait, there's more. The songwriting is confessional, heart-on-the-sleeve type stuff. What comes across is an incredibly unrestrained, emotional, dynamic band that you want to like right away. Holes is an invitation and confirmation, inviting you in and asking you to stay awhile. You'll want to stick around and hear The Midway State's stories in song.

Never Again is one of the more straightforward rock songs on the album, with a driving chorus based in Ferraro's soaring falsetto and a wave of beautiful harmonies. Change For You is the first snapshot of the real charm of The Midway State. Ferraro strips down to his most personal in the choruses, but returns to the soaring harmony-filled choruses in this near-perfect tune.

Far and away my favorite tune on the album is Fireflies, with it's Rachmaninoff-like piano opening turning into a full-on onslaught of keyboard, guitar, bass and drums. This is the song that replays itself in my head at odd times. Again, the signature harmonies return in the chorus, but this may be the most complex of the tunes on Holes. Unaware has a bit of that confessional singer-songwriter feel to it, and will likely be a concert favorite.

The other song I want to mention to you is Can't Stop Waking Up To You. It perfectly captures the angst and sorrow the follows a lost relationship, and probably could make a run at the singles charts with the right push and exposure. Other highlights include the title track Holes, Hold My Head Up, I Know and No Crying.

The Midway State is a band that could make big strides in the pop world, but is also something of a musician's band. You could spend hours picking apart this recording and find happy little surprises, particularly if you're a music geek like me. Holes is a virtuoso performance, and producer Gavin Brown deserves major props for bringing out the best in The Midway State. Of course, you can't bring out what isn't there in the first place. I suspect that The Midway State is at the forefront of an amazing journey. Join them.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about The Midway State check out www.themidwaystate.com. Holes was released in Canada on July 22, 2008. You can currently purchase it across Canada, or outside Canada as an import for crazy prices (22.98 on Amazon.com). However on the bands website is a link to the EMI Canada store, where you can purchase the CD for something like half that price.

CD Review: Prosevere - Versus

Prosevere – Versus
2008, Prosevere

Prosevere is something of a super group that grew out of the Memphis, TN rock scene. Vocalist Gary Segars and guitarist Eric Ashe both are perfectly capable front men, and the rhythm section of Matt Riley (on bass) and Rocky Griggs (drums) is one that any band could wish for. Prosevere is a fearless band, taking musical risks and having just enough chutzpah to pull them off. 2008 sees the release of Prosevere’s debut album, Versus. It’s one not to miss!

Versus is your prototypical big rock album. Driving guitar and big rock choruses abound here; with a bit of punk energy that sometimes evades the corporate rock crowd. Vocalist Gary Segars is atypical for a band this heavy, as he has something of a lyric voice. This stands in contrast to the often heavy guitar style that pervades Versus. My favorite song here is Believing, which shows the acoustic side of Prosevere. Other highlights include Shots, Sleepless and Versus.

Prosevere combines the best elements of heavy metal and lyric rock and roll to forge a sound that is very commercial and very accessible. Don't be surprised if Prosevere has a significant future in the music business. As it is, Versus is a stunning premiere.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Prosevere at www.prosevere.com. Versus will be released tomorrow, July 29, 2008, and initially will only be available in the Memphis, TN area. Keep checking at their website, as Prosevere has a link for their own store, but it does not appear to be operable yet.

CD Review: Michael Stollaire - Trinity

Michael Stollaire - Trinity
2007, Michael Stollaire

Michael Stollaire picked up a guitar for the first time when he was fourteen years old. Influenced heavily by 1970’s FM radio bands and the Beach Boys, Stollaire has crafted a sound that is unique his own. In 2007, the Los Angeles based singer/songwriter released the EP Trinity.

The three song EP opens with Little Princess, a straightforward rock tune featuring 1980's era guitar solos and arena-rock harmonies, and is actually quite a decent tune. I Can't Let You Go is a guitar ballad that has potential, but doesn't quite meet it. Stollaire has a passable rock voice, but on softer material such as this pitch issues are very evident. Just Like Yesterday returns to the 1980's hair metal sound that seems to fit Stollaire so well. Again, the vocals are passable, but the harmonies are outstanding.

Trinity is a decent turn from Michael Stollaire. I suspect that a live gig with Stollaire would be quite enjoyable, as the energy level here is fairly high. In the longer term continued live play and collaboration will help to polish over some of the rough edges evident here.

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Michael Stollaire at www.myspace.com/theankhproject. You can purchase a copy of Trinity at www.cdbaby.com/cd/mstollaire.

Review: Johnny Lingo Band - Shake It Off

Johnny Lingo Band - Shake It Off
2008, onetime

Johnny Lingo is perhaps the next big thing. Hailing from Providence, Rhode Island, the guy who always swore he’d never become a musician has become something more: an artist. Johnny Lingo behind the keys is something to behold. He writes with the bombast of Elton John or Ben Folds, and the pop sensibility of Billy Joel. His debut album, 2008’s Shake It Off, is something you’re going to want to hear.

Johnny Lingo is going to be compared heavily to artists such as Folds, John and Joel; due to the piano-driven rock style he writes in. The comparison is fair and warranted. Johnny Lingo benefits from the path they have cut in the rock universe, and he writes well enough to carry his own weight amongst such luminaries. Whether Joel-esque story songs (Step Outside), jazz-fueled rock (Foolin' Around), new wave (Fallen Angel) or Folds-style brashness (1in10), Johnny Lingo can do it all. Shake It Off is a how-to guide for making a great piano driven rock album. Other highlights include Marquee Move, This Man and Guess Again, which is the most starkly personal song on the album.

Shake It Off introduces Johnny Lingo to the world. This debut is more like a big bang than a cosmic whistle. Johnny Lingo is a rare talent who will not stay hidden. I'd like to hear another album before we truly put him in the circle with the likes of Folds, John and Joel, but he's making an argument you have to listen to.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about the Johnny Lingo Band at www.myspace.com/johnnylingoband. Their debut album, Shake It Off is only available as a download at this time, and can be purchased through Johnny Lingo’s MySpace page.

CD Review: Midori and Audioclique - Bring It

Midori and Audioclique - Bring It
2008, Midori and Audioclique

Midori and Audioclique hail from Santa Rosa, CA, and bring to us a new old sound.  Somewhere between the teen pop of the past decade and classic rock of the 70’s and 80’s is where you’ll find Midori and Audioclique.  Bring It is as much a declaration as an introduction.  The July 2008 release should be the first of many from this young band. 

Bring It is not nearly as confrontational as its title would suggest.  This album plays like the soundtrack to One Tree Hill, Dawson's Creek, Everwood, and dozens of other prime-time teen dramas.  Vocalist Midori Longo has a strong and supple voice that resonates throughout Bring It.  Musically, Midori and Audioclique walk the line between 1990's alternative rock and 1980's pop-rock.  The result is a vibrant album full of big hooks, harmonies and lots of guitar.  Midori rails with the best on I Can't Rely and Bring It, and brings on the hyper-sensuality on Swim In My Ocean.  Other highlights include Close Your Eyes, Go, and Take Me There.  Take Me There is my favorite track on the album, and would likely have been a major hit in the 1980's. 

Bring It is fairly even and sonically consistent throughout the album.  There are plenty of highs and lows in the flow of the music, but Midori and Audioclique never seem to lose sight of their musical vision.  This is one of those albums that is caught somewhere between good and great.  I will be curious to see what Midori and Audioclique do as a follow-up to this very strong debut.  Bring It is a snapshot from a band who could be around for a long time to come.  And it won’t be long before Midori Longo posters grace the walls of teen boys everywhere. 

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Midori and Audioclique at www.audioclique.net.  You can purchase a copy of Bring It at www.cdbaby.com/cd/midoriaudioclique.

CD Review: Janet Martin - Step Inside The Dream

Janet Martin - Step Inside The Dream
2008, Janet Martin

Janet Martin is a career musician with five albums under her belt, along with several US and European tours. The fact that you might not have heard her name until now is not a mark of the quality of her music by any stretch. Martin's songs deftly navigate the waters where rock, folk, country and Celtic styles meet. Step Inside The Dream may be her most dynamic release to date.

Janet Martin has a voice that is reminiscent at times of Bonnie Raitt and Annie Lennox, which is to say that it is entirely her own and unlike anyone else you might have heard. It's not unusual to find artists with strongly idiosyncratic voices in pop music, but Janet Martin is the real deal -- she can sing. And write. The songs on Step Inside This Dream are dynamic, smart and inspired. Highlights include Move To Town, Down To The Graveyard, Mercy Mercy and Gypsy Soul.

To say highlights in this case is point out which of the thirteen tracks are currently highest in my mind, but in truth there isn't a weak song here. Janet Martin has crafted an album in Step Inside The Dream destined to become an Americana classic. At the very least, Step Inside The Dream should be a critical darling.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Janet Martin at www.myspace.com/thejanetmartinband. You can purchase a copy of Step Inside The Dream at www.cdbaby.com/cd/martinjanet.

CD Review: Brian Rolland - The Tide's In

Brian Rolland - The Tide's In
2007, Brian Rolland

Brian Rolland draws his musical inspiration from the world around him; whether from the sounds of the earth and sees to the color of the sky, all of this input is a direct influence on Rolland's music. Brian Rolland mixes jazz with world music, blues, and others to create a sonic tableau from which leaps the arcs of melody and harmony. 2007 sees the release of Rolland’s 3rd album, The Tide’s In.

There are several highlights on The Tide’s In, but my personal favorite is Rolland's take on the traditional Water Is Wide (with Collage). I also greatly enjoyed Tide's In and Ask Me Too. Rolland is an extremely talented jazz guitarist who can walk in many worlds musically. The Tide's In gives you, the listener, the opportunity to get to know Brian Rolland and appreciate his virtuoso guitar playing.

The Tide's In is the perfect album for a summer evening. It's mellow yet slightly challenging. This is definitely a disc that will go into rotation in your CD collection.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Brian Rolland at www.brianrolland.com or www.myspace.com/brianrolland. You can purchase a copy of The Tide’s In at www.cdbaby.com/cd/rolland3.

CD Review: Amy Lennard - I Need To Love

Amy Lennard - I Need To Love
2008, Hold Your Own Records

Amy Lennard holds no secrets. Anything she is, anything she knows to be true, she lays out before her audience in song. Lennard is not so much a confessional songwriter as a cathartic one. On her debut CD, I Need To Love, Lennard offers up ten tracks of deeply personal, emotional urban Americana. The result is a riveting and intense album that will stay with you long after the music has stopped.

Walking a musical line somewhere between Bonnie Raitt and Lucinda Williams, Amy Lennard can tear at your heart strings in one song and heal you the next. The album opens with I Wish It Were Mine, a plaintive statement of desire for a friend's life. Forever Tonight is a classic country ballad that should do very well as a crossover tune. Also check out Let Go, Holy Night, and the epic El Paso.

I Need To Love is just the tip of the iceberg. Amy Lennard captures the soul's dark and yearning moments and portrays them in song like few others have done. I Need To Love is an impressive debut, and we at Wildy's World hope it's the first of many albums from this up and coming star.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Amy Lennard at www.myspace.com/amylennard. I Need To Love will be released on September 9, 2008. Check Amy Lennard's website for availability.

CD Review: Virigina Coalition - Home This Year

Virginia Coalition - Home This Year
2008, Bluhammock music

Virginia Coalition started out in Alexandria, VA in the early 1990's. Three high school friends (Andy Poliakoff, lead vocals/guitar; Paul Ottinger, keyboards/percussion/guitar/vocals; Jarrett Nicolay, bass, guitar, banjo, vocals) who are still making music together 15 years, Virginia Coalition has undergone a lot of changes. Home This Year sees a departure from the bombast and jam-band gimmicks of the past for a more mature, introspective songwriting style. The change has been coming as a matter of the band's growth, but was a conscious choice as well.

Home This Year is an incredibly accessible and thoughtful album. There are echoes of bands like the Counting Crows here, but Virgina Coalition has very much its own sound. The title track, Home This Year is an ode to the loneliness and desire to get back to loved ones a band feels while on the road, and comes across as the most highly personal song on the album. Santa Fe is a wonderful story song with classic Americana elements. Stars Align is a mellow rocker with intricate guitar trim around the edges and a bridge/chorus that are instantly familiar.

Make sure to check out Not Scared, which was co-written with Ari Hest. Period instrumentation from the 1960's was used to capture a time-capsule feel to this song about the difficulties society sometimes places in the path of interracial relationships. Sing Along is this writer's favorite song on the album, and Same Page is a very, very close second. The rest of the album is in the same vein, closing out with a double of Look My Way and I Got This One.

Home This Year is a watershed album for Virginia Coalition. Here is where they crossed the line from being a good band to a great one, as they've raised the level of their songwriting and performance another notch with Home This Year. It would be hard not to find something here to connect with, and I strongly recommend Virginia Coalition's Home This Year to my readers!

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

To learn more about Virginia Coalition, check out www.virginiacoalition.com. You can order a copy of Home This Year at www.campuscustoms.com/virginiacoalition.

CD Review: Anj - When Grey Blushes

Anj - When Grey Blushes
2007, Andrea Granieri

Anj may be one of the more enigmatic singer/songwriters in popular music. A classically trained pianist, she writes songs in a style she calls "orchestrated jazz". In essence she is using jazz scales and progressions couched in classical song composition to create an incredibly unique framework for her poetic muse. 2008 sees the release of Anj's second album, When Grey Blushes. On When Grey Blushes Anj takes the step of adding instrumentation to her usual vocal/piano mix, with tremendous success.

The music on When Grey Blushes is stylistically similar to early Tori Amos material, in that it is piano driven and strongly based in classical composition with jazz and pop influences. From these you lose all comparisons, as Anj is truly unlike anyone else currently in the pop sphere. Her songs are deeply personal, musically intricate, and with a stark vocal style that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Former Stranger opens the set with an unsettling piano progression, counter-punching violin, and eccentric vocals. There are also a couple of passages where the most disturbingly beautiful vocal harmonies chime in. It is truly a memorable opening and one that lets you know this won't be your typical music experience. This musical distress resolves into the simple beauty of Bright Winter. I could run through every song here, because there isn't a tune on When Grey Blushes that isn't remarkable. For the sake of brevity I'll just mention a few songs of note. View Of The Few is starkly beautiful, literate and real. This is currently my favorite track on the album, but this is one of those albums where the favorite rotates from day to day or sometimes listen to listen.

Be sure to check out Praise (Happy Birthday Father), a highly personal and beautiful paternal tribute. The Rest Of Me is also noteworthy, building from a dark, brooding piano opening into an impassioned plea from one who gave all to a relationship and ended up with nothing.

Take away the sunlight at the end of the day and we are all left in shadow. It is here in the emotional dusk that Anj crafts stories about the apparitions and wraiths that trouble her heart. The result is one of the most striking and darkly beautiful albums of 2007. When Grey Blushes is sublime. It is a certified Desert Island Disc, and it gets Wildy's World's highest recommendation.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Anj at www.myspace.com/anjmusic. You can purchase a copy of When Grey Blushes at www.cdbaby.com/cd/anj3.

CD Review: Jim Boggia - Misadventures In Stereo

Jim Boggia - Misadventures In Stereo
2008, Bluhammock Music

Jim Boggia is a self-proclaimed music geek. You know the type – the guy in college who only separated himself from his guitar to go to class if there was a test. Or the guy who fawned over a new sound he’d discovered for days trying to see what else he could draw out of it. A lot of these guys get lost in the self-reflexive thought process and spend years creating sounds but little that could be called music. Then there’s the occasional guy like Boggia, who learned somewhere along the line to channel that wonder with sound into the creative process. Jim Boggia’s third album, Misadventures In Stereo drops on August 5, 2008, and it is a thing of beauty.

Jim Boggia's voice sounds like that of a young Rod Stewart. I spent several listens on this disc trying to figure out why his voice sounded familiar before I figured out why. Stylistically they're nothing alike, and the similarity is a little loose, but it's enough to create a comfort with his voice that's part deja-vu and part respect. Boggia can sing and emote with the best of them. Misadventures In Stereo is a breath of fresh air. Johnnie's Going Down is a catchy song that will get stuck in your brain. To And Fro is a frantic acoustic rock song that owes its roots to the Beatles. Boggia seems to have a gift for picking strings from popular music and creating something completely new from familiar themes, sort of like a bird building a nest.

No Way Out shows Jim Boggia at the top of his form as a songwriter. Lyrically impressive, the song's melody is imaginative and unusual for the pop realm. This one is going on my personal playlist, and is one of the most finely crafted songs I've heard this year. So is the ultimate goodbye ballad. Misadventures In Stereo is just plain full of great songs, and Jim Boggia has a special spark that makes you want to listen again and again. Other highlights include Chalk One Up For Albert's Side, On Your Birthday and Three Weeks Shy.

If Misadventures In Stereo gets in front of the right people, you will see it on some end-of-year critics lists for 2008. Jim Boggia's voice is memorable, and his songs get in your brain like a virus. They just won't go away. Neither will Jim Boggia.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Jim Boggia at www.jimboggia.com. Misadventures In Stereo will be released August 5, 2008, and is available through Amazon.com.

CD Review: Spinning Lucy - The Everything Pill

Spinning Lucy – The Everything Pill
2008, Spinning Lucy

“Here’s another happy song about death”. – Will Roberts, Spinning Lucy

Isn’t funny how many of the best songs juxtapose peppy music with depressing or dark subject matter? Bands like the Cure and The Smiths made millions with this contretemps of lyric and song in the 1980’s and 1990’s, and many bands have followed in kind. It’s not to say that this is gimmick (although it is for some), it’s just the spoonful of sugar theory. We all love dark matter, but if it’s hidden in the sweet confection of pop it’s much easier to swallow. So it is with Spinning Lucy. 2008 sees the release of their debut album, The Everything Pill, a dynamic rock album with much to say, all couched in form of infectious, hook-heavy pop/rock you just might find yourself addicted to.

Will Roberts is the primary lyricist for Spinning Lucy, and I have already developed much respect for the man. I would compare him to another of my favorite lyricists, Ron Hawkins, as he has a definite way with words (If you forgive me the monsters in me / then I’ll forgive the ghosts in you). Roberts also possesses a gentle yet pervasive voice that is comfortable to listen to and compelling enough to be memorable. Set this against the backdrop of an incredibly talented band consisting of Doug Johns (drums), Brian Pylant (guitars/vocals) and Dave Lash (bass), and you find a synergy that many bands dream of.

Before we get to the music I want to say one more thing about albums in general. Any band worth its salt can come up with 2 or 3 songs for an album that are good. The better the band and the better the songwriting chemistry, the greater the likelihood of a band writing/recording an album that is deep with good or great songs. Human nature leads people to put their best stuff up front, whether best is viewed from quality or commerciality or whatever. That’s why very often you end up buying an album because of a single you heard, and you end up liking the first 2 or 3 songs (if you’re lucky) and not liking the rest of the album.

I say all of this because I find that the best albums seem to get better as they go along, and I find I tend to enjoy the second half even more than the first half. I am not entirely sure why this is the case, but it is, and so it is with The Everything Pill.

The Everything Pill opens with Starsign, which is probably my least favorite track on the disc, and yet it is a strongly commercial lead song and probably a good choice for a lead track/single. That’ll Be The Day, on the other hand, is what you came for. It’s the sort of upbeat rock song full of strong hooks and great melody that is perfect for the slightly dark subject matter it contains. The song reeks of the pure joy that Spinning Lucy must feel as a band at making great music.

I’ve seen a lot of the comparisons made for Spinning Lucy (Cheap Trick, Jimmy Eat World, Fountains Of Wayne), but for my money they sound quite a bit like one of my most favorite bands, The Lowest Of The Low. Roberts’ vocals are quite similar to LOTL co-vocalist Stephen Stanley, and some of the sound achieved on The Everything Pill matches up quite well to The Lowest Of The Low. (This is a huge compliment). Hello and Lions are strong examples of the sound I am talking about. Other highlights are Ghost In You, Goldilocks, Letting You Down and Flavor Of The Weak.

Spinning Lucy are talented, and musically they show a cohesion and spark that most bands would kill for. Add in the songwriting talents of Roberts and you get something of a juggernaut. The Everything Pill is all you could expect from such a group. It’s smart, driven, melodic and full of great songs, with just a touch of magic thrown in. Now line up. It’s time for your medicine.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Spinning Lucy at www.spinninglucy.com, or www.myspace.com/spinninglucy. You can purchase a copy of The Everything Pill at www.cdbaby.com/cd/spinninglucy.

CD Review: The Darbuki Kings - Lawrence Of Suburbia

The Darbuki Kings - Lawrence Of Suburbia
2008, Darbuki King Records

You know the Darbuki Kings, you just don't know it yet. Robin Adnan Anders (AKA Adnan Darbuki) is a founding member of the legendary Boiled In Lead, as well as 3 Mustaphas 3. Together with Antonio Albarran (AKA Antone Darbuki), they form The Darbuki Kings. The duo mix a wicked sense of humor with amazing musicianship to create Lawrence Of Suburbia, released in 2008 on their own label. Featuring sitar, Laouto, percussions and samples, The Darbuki Kings have created an album full of gypsy music with just a hint of a modern edge.

The album opens with Yasser Ubetcha, over seven minutes of rollicking misadventure that prepares you for what is to come. Highlights include Blues Eyes, The Silk Road, Timbuktu, and the frenetic Nine Time, which I can't get out of my head. The musicianship here is first class, as expected. Despite the tongue-in-cheek treatment re: cover art and title, this is serious music made by two top-notch musicians. Lawrence Of Suburbia is a pleasant surprise. While it's not the sort of thing I would listen to all the time, it's definitely one of those albums that will get pulled out from time to time for a listen.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about the Darbuki Kings at www.myspace.com/darbuki or www.robinanders.com. You can purchase Lawrence Of Suburbia as a download from Amazon.com, or you can order a CD directly from Robin Anders. The contact information for ordering physical CDs is on Robin Anders’ website.

CD Review: Great Big Sea - Fortune's Favour

Great Big Sea - Fortune's Favour
2008, Great Big Sea Records

Great Big Sea has the distinction of being the biggest and best export that New Foundland has ever managed. Fifteen Years after the release of their debut, self-titled CD, Great Big Sea is back with their 9th studio album, entitled Fortune's Favour. Fortune's Favour is a watershed album for Great Big Sea, who placed themselves in the able and eclectic hands of producer Hawksley Workman.

Great Big Sea displays a newfound sense of largesse in their sound that suits the songs on Fortune's Favour very well. Opening with the buoyant and light-filled Love Me Tonight, Great Big Sea brings a new pop sensibility to their Celtic/folk/pop mix. The album's first single, Walk On The Moon, is a paean to having the courage to fall in love. England returns to the band's roots of New Foundland sea songs, but retains the pop sensibility that Workman seems to have inspired in the band.

Fortune's Favour is one of those albums that longtime fans are either going to love or hate. It is a step forward artistically as a band, allowing Great Big Sea to make their sound more accessible to neophytes while spreading their wings musically. Some fans will hear this as moving away from the sound that got Great Big Sea where they are, but if you've followed their career, this is just a continuation of the musical growth we've seen from them in the past.

In truth, I can't find a weak moment on Fortune's Favour. One happy surprise is the punk-tinged Oh Yeah. And don't worry if you are one of the longtime fans who feel a little put out by Great Big Sea's continued growth -- they still know where their roots are. The Banks Of New Foundland and Rocks Of Merasheen are as New Foundland as you can get.

Just make sure that you check out Company Of Fools. This is the halcyon moment on Fortune's Favour, at least for this writer. Company Of Fools may go down as one of the finest pop songs I've ever heard, and probably should be given full force as a single. It is definitely in the Celtic tradition, and has a catchiness to it that rivals REM's Its The End Of The World As We Know It.

Great Big Sea has reached platinum status before, but Fortune's Favor is the sort of musical moment that could catalyze into much greater success. Hawksley Workman's steady hand has definitely brought out the best in the boys from St. Johns.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Great Big Sea at www.greatbigsea.com. You can purchase a copy of Fortune’s Favour on the band’s website, or at most US and Canadian retailers.

CD Review: Curtis Peoples - Curtis Peoples

Curtis Peoples - Curtis Peoples
2008, The Control Group/Galt Line Music

Curtis Peoples has a knack for getting under your skin. Whether on-stage, on MTV's SCORE, or in his roles on One Tree Hill or Walk The Line, he has an ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. Peoples also happens to have a knack for writing hook-filled pop/rock songs that stick in your mind long after the music has stopped playing. Aside from being a favorite of L.A.'s musical literati, Curtis Peoples was named on of Music Connection magazine's "100 Unsigned Artists To Watch in 2008". With all of the hype, I imagine you're chomping at the bit to get a listen to Curtis Peoples -- you don't have long to wait. His debut eponymous CD will be released August 19th, 2008. Get ready to hear a lot of Curtis Peoples throughout the rest of the year.

Peoples mixes a sense for catchy melodies, great pop hooks and 1980's flavored guitar-driven choruses to create one of the best pure pop/rock albums of the year to date. Curtis Peoples opens with Back Where I Started, an Americana flavored rock tune with a chorus you won't be able to get out of your head. Holding Me Down displays People's rock guitar sound and transitions to Tell Me I'm Wrong, which opens with a riff that Lenny Kravitz would be proud of. This is a great pop tune, and was co-written by Tyler Hilton.

Heart Will Fall is a great acoustic rock tune with a funk bass opening that resolves into an arena-rock chorus. For my money, however, All I Want is the true hit of the bunch. This is the sort of song that could corner popular radio for the summer. The sound is a little reminiscent of Five For Fighting, but is 100% Peoples. Exit Scene closes out the album with just a touch of country/pop flavor.

What is clear throughout Curtis People's self-titled debut is that the man knows how to write songs that connect with his listeners. His easy voice, accessible melodies and soaring choruses draw in the listener in a way many pop artists have failed to learn. Don't be at all surprised if this is one of the top debut albums of 2008. I expect you'll be hearing several of these songs in TV show soundtracks throughout the 2008-2009 television season. Peoples just has a sound that fits in anywhere. Check out Curtis Peoples before he gets as hugely popular as he has every right to be.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Curtis Peoples at www.curtispeoples.com. Curtis Peoples' self-titled debut will be released on August 19, 2008.

CD Review: Salme Dahlstrom - The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade

Salme Dahlstrom - The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade
2008, Kontainer Music 

Sweden-born New York City resident Salme Dahlstrom is about to light up your ears.  This classically trained musician first landed in The States in 1999, and made waves as part of the New York City underground band aboyandagirl.  Yearning for the freedom of a solo career, she set about writing and recording The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade in her NYC studio. 

Ever the hands-on producer, Dahlstrom took up every role on the album, with exception of a couple of friends who cameo here and there.The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade mixes a love of Fatboy Slim type dance music with classic rock and classic R&B flavors.  Salme Dahlstrom struts her stuff here for all it's worth.  Her sassy/sultry voice rocks, rolls and coos throughout. 

C'Mon Y'All is a real treat, and probably the most danceable track here.  It has the sort of simple refrain and catchy melody that could become a major dance club hit.  I also very much enjoyed Hello California.  The lyrics were a bit on the simplistic side, but it's the chorus is bright and airy and sticks in your head.  My favorite song on the album though is Thinking About It...Baby, with Reality Check a close second.  Both songs show that Dahlstrom is more than a talk-singer, but is a multiple threat as an entertainer. 

Look, this isn't music that's going to change the world, but it sure will get it dancing.  Salme Dahlstrom is a charismatic force majeure who should achieve big things with The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade.  It's one of the best dance/rock albums I've heard in 2008, and should end up on some critics’ end of year top-ten lists.  Hopefully the general public will get wind of Salme Dahlstrom, because if they do you'll be hearing her everywhere for the rest of 2008. 

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Salme Dahlstrom at www.salmedahlstrom.com.  You can purchase a copy of The Acid Cowgirl Audio Trade at www.cdbaby.com/cd/salmedahlstrom.  

CD Review: Timothy Cooper - Light On The Water

Timothy Cooper - Light On The Water
2008, Timothy Cooper

Timothy Cooper is a pianist, photographer and filmmaker, in addition to being the Executive Director of Worldrights, a human rights advocacy organization. Cooper believes in shining a light on world problems with his art, and the Light On The Water was recorded as a series of new age style improvisations reflecting on the 9/11 attacks and the healing that occurred afterward.

Light On The Water consists of 19 tracks of unstructured improvisational piano playing. The songs themselves flow from one to the other without significant variation in sound or dynamic, making this an ideal disc for meditation or for background music for a meal. It is difficult to discuss standout tracks as there is no one track here that really grabs the listener's attention. It is a solid recording and pleasant to listen to, but not particularly remarkable. Even changes in dynamic would create tension or conflict and resolution, but such dramatic elements are scant.

Timothy Cooper is obviously a multi-talented individual who is doing his part to make the world a better place. Light On The Water is a musical expression of some of the change Cooper wants to see in the world, but as an image it is uninspiring. The spark one might expect just isn't there. Light On The Water is a pleasant listen, but nothing more.

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Timothy Cooper at www.new-age-piano.com. You can purchase a copy of Light On The Water at www.cdbaby.com/cd/timothycooper2.

CD Review: Ramzi - Color

Ramzi – Color
2008, Ramzi Khoury

Ramzi Khouri moved from California to New York City in 2006 to try to make it as a musician, leaving behind office politics and the California Sunshine. Khouri brought a little of his own inner sun with him, however, and we get our first glimpse at it on his debut release, Color.

Color opens with When I Go, which might be the ultimate dysfunctional relationship song about a man who keeps trying to leave but gets sucked back in. Ramzi then moves on to Blows Like The Wind, an Americana-flavored folk/pop classic that would be a huge hit if it ever found placement in a prime-time TV show. This is the sort of song that rockets a singer-songwriter from unknown to a buzz-word. If anyone reading this is doing licensing for television or movies, you need to grab hold of this song.

Other highlights include Color, Words, and Breaking Free. Ramzi brings a rock troubadour's story-telling sensibility, a fresh voice, and some outstanding guitar work on Color. The songwriting is mixed, with some of it very polished, and some less so. What is clear is that this is a young artist who is learning and growing in his art, and Color is a strong starting point. Where Ramzi is totally on his game the music is sublime, and when he's off he's not off by much. I would strongly suspect that Ramzi will continue to grow into an accomplished artist. Color is his musical hello to the world, and it is very welcome!

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Ramzi at www.ramziguitar.com. You can purchase a copy of Color at www.cdbaby.com/cd/ramzimusic.

CD Review: Lesley Spencer - Moments Musicaux

Lesley Spencer - Moments Musicaux
2008, Lesley Spencer

Lesley Spencer is an accomplished classical pianist, composer and producer based out of Chicago, IL. Her compositions/recordings are heard regularly on NPR's Morning Edition and Weekend Edition, and has even had a composition placed in the Disney Film Stick It. She receives airplay internationally, and is acknowledge as a world class classical pianist. Spencer also has a flair for exploring melodies in a way that invites contemporary music fans to dig deeper into the classical realm. She has a gift for making classical music more accessible while staying true to the music's roots. On Moments Musicaux, Spencer presents 16 original compositions that dance, sway, twitter and spark their way into your imagination.

Moments Musicaux opens with Dance Of Life, which seems to portray the almost frantic, relentless quality that life has of reinventing and reconfiguring itself to thrive. You can almost here the musical metaphors for overcoming and becoming in every passage. The set moves on to Child's Play, which could have walked right out of a Charlie Brown cartoon (ala Schroeder). The song seems to explore the light and airy side of play, while acknowledging a darker undercurrent.

Moments Musicaux is full of highlights, from Fellini Waltz to Ode To Harry Potter to Scherzo, Spencer is on her game throughout. My personal favorite piece here is Pirouette, a dark and starkly beautiful melody over the backdrop of an incessant and plaintive waltz. If this were the only song on Moments Musicaux it would be worth purchasing, but Spencer has crafted an album full of beautiful, surprising and memorable moments.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Lesley Spencer at www.lesleyspencer.com. You can purchase a copy of Moments Musicaux at www.cdbaby.com/cd/lesleyspencer11.

CD Review: Jonathan Meek & The Mutes - Iron & Pity

Jonathan Meek & The Mutes – Iron & Pity
2008, Jonathan Meek/Meek And The Mute Music

Jonathan Meek is the son of a preacher man. His earliest musical influences were the hymns from his father’s church, and this ingrained a sense of melody in him from a young age. He quickly graduated to influences such as Nick Cave, Elvis Costello & Neko Case. He studied classical theory in college, but found his muse while busking on the streets of Santa Cruz. 2008 sees the release of Jonathan Meek’s first album, Iron & Pity. With the support of The Mutes, Meek has released an interesting and powerful debut.

Meek has a sound that runs somewhere down the line between idols Costello and Nick Cave, and occasionally veers into Jim Morrison territory. Meek’s songs aren’t big on pop hooks, but are more like short films in musical form. Meek writes strongly in images, that he conveys with his eccentric voice. Iron & Pity opens with The City I Love, which comes across as kind of a post-punk Doors tune. Spark & No Fire falls into the simple melody and simple sonic overcoat song construction that Meek seems to like. It’s a simple but infectious melody. Spark & No Fire is easily my favorite song on the EP.

From The West sounds like early Costello, while On The Way Down has an accessible melody with some great harmonies. The set closes out with Take A Look, which takes on a bardic quality, as if you’re listening to one of the last great Troubadours.

It’s way too early in Meek’s career to make that assessment, but keep it in mind. Jonathan Meek isn’t quite like anyone else in the pop scene at the moment. If I had to guess I wouldn’t say that Jonathan Meek & The Mutes would ever be the darlings of the music scene. I do seem them as being the sort of band that ten years on and 7 or so albums down the road has a fiercely loyal following that follow them around and keep them eating and living well.

Iron & Pity is a bit different from the usual pop/rock stuff you might here. It’s a little bit darker and a little more simplistic in construction than a lot of stuff out there. This less-is-more approach to writing creates starkly beautiful landscapes against which Meek can tell you his stories. If Iron & Pity is any indication, you’ll want to listen.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Jonathan Meek & The Mutes at www.jonathanmeek.com. You can pick up a copy of Iron & Pity at www.cdbaby.com/cd/jmtm.

CD Reviews: Kush - The Temptation Sessions/Streams On Consciousness Vol. 1

Kush – Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1
2004, Kush

The Temptation Sessions
2002, Kush

Kush is a Toronto based Nu-Jazz ensemble that mixes free-form improvisational Jazz with ambient techno to create a new listening experience. Drawing on the best of the acoustic and electronic worlds, Kush finds an ability to craft unique and interesting sounds and compositions. Their 2002 release, The Temptation Sessions, was followed in 2004 by Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1. Both recordings are reviewed below.

Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1

Kush walks the line between New Age and Free Form Jazz with greater or lesser degrees of success on Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1. Broken into seven Sweets (sic), the album plays almost more like a mellow house recording that traditional jazz. It is apparent that Kush, as a band, has some real talent, but Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1 seems more the sort of music you might hear while on hold for the doctors office than something you'd go out and pay money to hear. That's not meant to denigrate the recording, but Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1 just doesn't have a lot of meat to it. It's very easy to listen to, but doesn't require much thought or interaction as a listener.

This recording will find a market. There are folks who very much enjoy this sort of new-age light jazz. There are some examples of the genre out there that manage to stay very interesting and full of energy while being unobtrusive, but Kush just never quite seems to find the vivacity in Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1.

Rating: 1.5 Stars (Out of 5)

The Temptation Sessions

The Temptation Sessions are another story altogether. Kush is still in the new age/jazz category here, but seems to have found a spark that eluded them on Streams Of Consciousness. There is a vivacity in the music here that is very repressed, but in some ways all the more interesting for that fact. New Life With Electricity is one of my favorites here, and Plaster Paris, Part One and Part Two are a definite treat.

Kush does relax a bit at times here, and the music becomes a little more of a wash at these points, but in general there is strong energy and repressed life in The Temptation Sessions. I was reminded at times of some of Andy Summers' best solo work (ala The Golden Wire). Give The Temptation Sessions a spin. Its great mellow party music, and an interesting listen.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Kush at www.myspace.com/theoriginalkush. You can purchase a copy of Streams Of Consciousness, Volume 1 at www.cdbaby.com/cd/kush2. You can purchase a copy of The Temptation Sessions at www.cdbaby.com/cd/kush.

CD Review: Jon Hartmann - Pacific Electric

Jon Hartmann – Pacific Electric
2004, John Hartmann

Jon Hartmann is a musical magician of modern jazz, rock, funk and Afro-Cuban grooves (with some occasional reggae thrown in).  He walks the line between Avant-Garde jazz and a new provincial fusion that is all his own.  On Pacific Electric, Hartmann is at his best.  Pacific Electric is an ode to the Pacific Electric Railway, which was destroyed in the 1950's in order to ensure that more people bought cars (if you can believe that).

Jon Hartmann delivers ten songs of cool modern jazz on Pacific Electric.  There's even a little funk going on here, such as in They Laughed, probably the tune I enjoyed most on this album.  Other highlights include the soulful Hidden Agenda, It's Always Now and Gridlock.  The playing here is incredibly tight, and Pacific Electric manages to maintain a little bit of a live feel in the recording. Jon Hartmann's band is top notch, and he has delivered an excellent listen in Pacific Electric. 

Hartmann has an ability to push the envelope just enough to make it interesting, and not quite so much to lose touch with the essence that is jazz.  Pacific Electric is definitely worth a listen. 

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5) 

You can learn more about Jon Hartmann at www.jonhartmannmusic.com.  You can purchase a copy of Pacific Electric at www.cdbaby.com/cd/jonhartmann5.

CD Review: Jon Hartmann - George Bush Sings

Jon Hartmann - George Bush Sings
2008, Jon Hartmann

Jon Hartmann is a consummate musician with a wicked sense of humor. Hartmann has strong roots in rock, jazz, reggae and Afro-Cuban styles, and he has recently started playing with electronic manipulation of sounds (splicing and dicing, as it were). Enter President George W. Bush, otherwise known as mal-a-props-R-Us. On George Bush Sings, Hartmann takes 7 years of misstatements and snarky condescension and turns into something that just might vaguely resemble the truth (per the artist)

Now I am not defender of George W. Bush, but this album is something of a hatchet job disguised as a comedy album. What is comes down to is that if you like the current POTUS, then you will not like this album. If you are one of the many who disdain Bush, then you will probably like this album, or perhaps even find it funny. Hartmann takes snippets of speeches made by Bush over the years and pieces them together into a new narrative. This new narrative is one that will ring true with those who dislike Bush or disagree with his policies, but it fails the humor test, and in the end it is one person's piecing together of another's words, so veracity, if attained, is likely accidental.

Musically, George Bush Sings is very strong. Hartmann uses a mix of rock, funk and jazz motifs as beds for the spoken word component. Hartmann is obviously a very talented musician, but the music is somewhat wasted here, as the concatenation of Bush speeches becomes more of an annoying distraction rather than something that enhances the musical experience. I think I would have enjoyed this album much more if it were instrumental.

Rating: 2 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Jon Hartmann at www.jonhartmannmusic.com. You can purchase a copy of George Bush Sings at www.cdbaby.com/cd/jonhartmann5.

CD Review: Jacky And Strings - New Era

Jacky and Strings - New Era
2008, Jacky and Strings

Jacky Ambroise and Strings released their 5th album in 2008, entitled New Era. New Era is an acoustic-electronic hybrid featuring the flamenco and Spanish guitar styling of Ambroise. New Era covers influences from pop, rock, reggaeton/dancehall, flamenco and Spanish guitars. Ambroise is a master of his art, and brings his guitar chops to New Era in full effect.

I was very much looking forward to this album when it came, and I was not disappointed by Jacky Ambroise on guitar. I wasn't as excited about the electronic/dance elements to the recording, which seem to detract from the virtuoso guitar contained within. Highlights include Rosa Maria, The Groove Is On Fire, Yanvalooh and A Brasileria. The latter is my favorite on the album.

Jacky And Strings are an incredibly talented group. The songs are danceable and intriguing, and Jacky Ambroise has a special flair with his guitar that is not often seen in popular music. New Era is a nice treat.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Jackie and Strings at www.jackieandstrings.com. The website will offer a link where you can purchase New Era.

CD Review: Marian Call - Vanilla

Marian Call - Vanilla
2007, Marian Call

Okay, stop what you're doing and pay attention. It's not often that you get the opportunity to meet an artist like Marian Call, and I want to make note of it so that years from now you can recall where you were when you first heard that name. Hailing from the great northern outposts of Alaska, Marian Call is the export Alaska has been waiting for to top Jewel.

If you're looking for a popular comparison for Marian Call, the closest I can come is Nellie McKay. Marian Call's primary instrument is the acoustic guitar rather than the piano, and she uses irony more than overt anger to get her point across, but her songwriting skills are in the same class. To add to all of this is the voice. Marian Call has a warm voice that sounds equally superior in either alto or soprano ranges. Her sound is unique enough to become iconic in time.

Vanilla is an amazing debut. There is not a weak track go be found on the CD. The music is diverse and dynamic and flows like an album should. Marian Call is very much in control from start to finish. Fret is the opening song, about the guilt the singer feels about not returning feelings in kind to a suitor. The lyrical construction of the song is remarkable, and is typical of the songs on Vanilla. Call has a singular ability to tell stories in her songs that are part stream of consciousness and part careful confessional. The twists and turns of lyric are those you'd expect from an accomplished lyricist, and are surprising and delightful from a newcomer.

The Volvo Song shows the vocal range and dexterity of Marian Call, as well as the complexity she can create riffing on a simple melody line. This is currently my favorite track on the album, but the favorite keeps changing. Flying Feels Like displays Call's willingness and ability to take musical risks with melody choices. The decidedly dark minor-key verses resolve into uplifting major key choruses that betray the singer’s true ambivalence.

Be sure to check out Sunday Afternoon and I'm Yours, the latter of which has "wedding song" written all over it. With the right push from a label, I'm Yours might become the most requested first dance song of the next decade. No kidding.

Stop What You're Doing is the sort of song Sarah McLachlan has been making millions on for years. It doesn't sound like anyone other than Marian McCall, but it made me think of McLachlan, particularly in the chorus. Your Fault is a stark confrontation set to music, and sounds like it might have walked off the soundtrack of some prime-time teen soap opera. Chelsea Morning is a gorgeous closure to Vanilla, and will be running through your head incessantly until you next pop the CD in.

Oh yes, the title track. Vanilla is a tragic-comedy of self-doubt, and is impressive because of how unabashedly honest it is. Fans often think they know an artist from their songs, and usually what you get to know is a caricature that is part the person and part projection. One gets the impression from listening to Marian Call that there is no subterfuge or misdirection in her songwriting. Marian Call can sing openly about herself because of a self-awareness that surpasses her years. Pepper this with the sort of insecurities that we all feel and seldom voice and you have the essence of Vanilla.

Look, there are singer-songwriters, and then there are artists who transcend their genre to become divas, icons, symbols, or whatever label you want to use. This doesn't happen in one album but over the course of time through repeated excellence and reinvention as an artist. There are a mere handful of such artists every generation, and some burn out before they ever get recognized for what they truly are. But if I were a betting man, I would put my money on Marian Call.

Vanilla is a Certified Desert Island Disc, and any other awards or monikers you can think to throw its way. It's the best thing I've heard thus far in 2008, and is one of the three best debut albums I've ever heard. Remember the day and time when you first heard about Marian Call, and get on the bandwagon soon. This star is going to burn bright.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Marian Call at www.mariancall.com, where you can purchase a copy of Vanilla. You can also pick up Vanilla at www.cdbaby.com/mariancall. Also note that there was a limited edition release of Vanilla with the bonus track It Was Good For You Too. This is sold out, but you may be able to pick up a copy on Amazon.com.

CD Review: Winifred Adams - Where Will This Love Go

Winifred Adams - Where Will This Love Go
2008, Massive Music

Winifred Adams was discovered as a singer while shooting an exercise video. I am not quite sure how that works, but the point is that Winifred Adams just doesn't go by the pop music book. Her songs are full of positive energy and light. Adams eschews the sardonic or cynical styles ever present in popular culture to create feel good songs. Her music is country-flavored pop rock that manages to sound fresh despite inhabiting the ever growing adult contemporary format. Where Will This Love Go is a collection of six songs that show the breadth and depth of Adams’ songwriting and singing talents.

Adams focuses on love songs here, although not necessarily ballads. Her energy and enthusiasm for her songs shines through on the disc, and Adams' clear alto rings through her songs like a bell. You Are My Rose is her signature song and is definitely the highlight here. Also impressive are Where Will This Love Go, All You Need and Remedy. Artists in this AC category are kind of a dime a dozen these days. The Adult-Contemporary Format shrinks over time as more alt-rockers transition into these marketing formats and the mellow-rock singer-songwriters get pushed aside on popular radio.

That being said, we'll make you a deal. Throw out the dozen and keep Winifred Adams. Despite treading the well-worn path of mellow rock with her songs, Where Will This Love Go is that rare gem that combines strong songwriting, a talented voice and a certain innocent sweetness that comes across as genuine. Even on the dance number, Remedy, there's just something down to earth and homey that comes across and makes the album more of a person-to-person experience. Make sure to give Winifred Adams a listen.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Winifred Adams at www.winifred.net. You can purchase digital copies of Where Will This Love Go on Napster, Rapsody, Amazon.com, Groupie Tuns and Emusic.

CD Review: Sonya Kahn - New Beginning

Sonya Kahn - New Beginning
2007, Mozarta Muzik 

Sonya Kahn has been performing in front of major audiences for 20 years now.  The classically trained pianist was a member of popular European group Sunshine for a number of years, and also did time as member of Take 5 here in the US.  In 2007 Sonya Kahn staked her claim as a solo artist, releasing New Beginning.  This wonderfully complex and challenging rock album is a giant musical step forward.

New Beginning is the sort of album that could establish Kahn as a Rock Diva, ala Celine Dion with a bit harder of an edge.  Don't Go Away is the type of song that marketers build campaigns around, and just might be the class of this classy album.  Friend is a bittersweet and angry ode friendship lost, and allows Kahn to display the power and vulnerability her voice can convey.  Hunter opens up the pipes for a blues inflected rock tune that wants to border on heavy metal.  Don't Go Away is a plaintive plea and perhaps the most gorgeous melody on the album. 

In short, New Beginning shows the incredibly dynamic range of sound that Sonya Kahn can create with her voice.  Here we see a potential superstar in the making.  New Beginning rocks, coos, soothes, and shakes you for all its worth.  You'll keep coming back for more. 

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Sonya Kahn at www.sonyakahn.com.  You can purchase a copy of New Beginning at www.cdbaby.com/sonyakahn, or through Amazon.com. 

CD Review: The Iambic Dream Project - Identity Crisis: Aliens, Beduins and Leos

The Iambic Dream Project - Identity Crisis: Aliens, Beduins amd Leos
2003, Iambic Dream Music

The Iambic Dream Project is something of a mess. Sometimes its a glorios mess, sometimes its not so glorious. The concept envisioned by producer Wael K is to create a collective of 50-plus artists and let their creative collaboration run a little mad. Then Wael K reins them in and culls the best of the material for a "supergroup" album for the ages. It is a concept that works at times, and falls short of the mark at others. On the whole, Identity Crisis: Aliens, Beduins and Leos is an interesting experiment with some nice finds.

Hero Worship is a mildly peppy R&B song on an electronic bed. An enjoyable listen. Flying Solo is probably my favorite song on the album, coming across as a post-modern Rat Pack tune, complete with Vegas horn section. July Rose is a frantic punk-rocker that is 1:58 of pure punk bliss. Other highlights include the raucous roadhouse rock of I Could Be Free and the tragic remembrance Angelina.

Identity Crisis is aptly named. Thirteen songs is not enough to allow this collective of artists to find an identity or direction, but there are some real gems to be found within. The Iambic Dream Project will hopefully see more installments, as there is real talent here.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about The Iambic Dream Project at www.iambicdream.com. You can purchase a copy of Identity Crisis: Aliens, Beduins and Leos at www.cdbaby.com/cd/iambicdream.

CD Review: Slant - Nothin' Left But Me

Slant - Nothin' Left But Me
2008, Slant 

Slant is a young band from the Cincinatti area that is looking to make a name for itself.  Lead singer Michelle Korn brings a unique and unforgettable sound. Her band is comprised in part by former members of Cincinatti outfit The Silhouette, and they are as tight as can be.  Korn’s vocals can only be described as entrancing.  Nothin’ Left But Me is an ambitious debut that leaves nothing behind, and should mark the beginning of a long and successful career for Slant.

Nothin' Left But Me starts with the poppy and eccentric Ba-Ba-Ba, and builds on the peppy-but-melancholy formula with tunes such as Back Out, Parking Lot and Ballad of I-65.  The music is pure Americana: mellow rock with a country bent.  Vocalist Michelle Korn makes me think of a mix of Nathalie Merchant and Edie Brickell.  Her quirky vocals are part of the distinct charm of Slant. The instrumental work here is top notch.  The arrangements are uncomplicated and tightly delivered.  Every song here is good, but a handful are truly great.  Check out Fine, Athens and Games Are For Cheaters for other examples of great pop/country balladry.   

Nothin' Left But Me is like the little album that could.  I didn't think it was going to end up making much of an impression on first listen, but Slant, and particularly Michelle Korn's voice, grow on you.  The music isn't raucous or wild, but it's memorable, and you'll find yourself humming these songs time and time again.  Just don't be surprised if it takes a few listens to really get how good these guys are.  You really have to listen to Slant to appreciate them. 

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Slant at www.myspace.com/slantband.  Right now the only way to get a copy of Nothin’ Left But Me is through Cincinatti area Indie stores such as Everybody’s Records , but will be available on iTunes and CDBaby in the not too distant future.

CD Review: Richards and Fitch - A Couple Of F Holes

Richards & Fitch - A Couple Of F Holes
2007, Bobby Richards

There were these two guys, see. One was named Bobby Richards and the other was Reno Fitch. No, I'm not kidding, Reno Fitch. Anyway, one day they decided to Reno & Fitch. It has made all the difference. Reno & Fitch hail from "Northern British Columbia" (Is there, technically, a Southern British Columbia?). Anyway, how two guys from Northern British Columbia manage to make some of the best Appalachian flavored folk music I've heard in ages I don't know, but that's exactly what Richards & Fitch have done. A Couple Of F Holes, aside from being moderately offensive to C- and G- clefs, is one of the finest folk albums of the last several years.

Bobby Richards is not a perfect vocalist, but his vocals are perfect for this music. Appalachian folk is more attuned to sitting around the kitchen table with family and friends and singing songs everyone knows. Throw A Couple Of F-Holes into your CD player and close your eyes. You'll smell overly strong coffee and the remains of dinner, you'll see the checked table cloth and feel the cool night breeze blowing in the back window.

My personal favorite here is The 809, about waiting for one's true love to come home. Now That I Have You is a wonderful little finger-picking tune, dancing on the line between American Folk, Celtic and country. To Make You Mine is a touching ballad. Stockboy To Satan is an absolute must-hear. Through all of these songs, silly or sublime, Richards & Fitch display flashes of a wicked sense of humor. Even in the most serious of songs there is just a twitch of a grin around the corners of their mouths, like they share some secret joke. Listen hard enough and long enough and maybe you'll get it, or maybe you won't. Either way, you'll be exploring folk music the way it was meant to be played. A Couple Of F Holes is a classic.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Richards and Fitch at www.myspace.com/richardsandfitch. A Couple Of F Holes is available at www.cdbaby.com/cd/richardsfitch.

CD Review: The Mumbles - Once EPonymous

The Mumbles - Once EPonymous
2008, The Mumbles 

The Mumbles are a prime example of making lemons out of lemonade.  Keith Burnstein (vocals/keyboard) and Ethan Shorter (drums) were part of a fourteen-piece hip-hop band, and one night were the only two band members to show up on time for a gig.  After being urged by the club owner to go on as a due, they discovered a bit of magic playing as a duo that was missing from the larger band.  Moving on as the Mumbles, they since added Meredith Claire on vocals/guitar.  Their debut record, Once EPonymous, was released in May of 2008 and is an absolute joy to listen to. 

Once EPonymous opens with Brass Tacks, which sounds like something Billy Joel might have written mid-career, and is actually quite brilliant.  The Mumbles move on to the reggae-influenced Suitcases.  We get our first listen to Meredith Claire's vocals on Bite Size (Brawn w/ Brio).  Claire sounds strikingly like New York City based singer/songwriter Rebecca Martin, formerly of Once Blue.  Bite Size comes across as a cafe jazz-influenced rock tune, and Claire and Burnstein show off some amazing vocal harmonies.  They sound as if they were meant to sing together. Angry Owners, Angry Dogs could be something that Billy Joel and Randy Newman sat down and tossed off together over cocktails.  It has some of those signature progressions that seem to show up on classic Joel albums with a breezy New Orleans flavor to it that suggests Newman had a hand in.  It's not so much that the Mumbles sound like either of these two; Burnstein just has a knack for writing songs that are instantly familiar in some way while being very much his own creations.  It's this little knack that sometimes makes a songwriter into a superstar. 

The EP closes out with Long Legs On Little Bikes, more of a musical interlude -- the sort you might find in a movie score.   Once EPonymous is a musical breath of fresh air; original yet familiar.  The songs are inventive and not in any way formulaic.  The vocal duo of Keith Burnstein and Meredith Claire are entrancing to listen to.  The Mumbles, in short, are amazing. 

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5) 

You can learn more about The Mumbles at www.myspace.com/brooklynmumbles.  You can purchase a copy of Once EPonymous at www.cdbaby.com/cd/mumblesmusic2.  

CD Review: David Arkenstone/Loren Gold/Nicholas Gunn/Johannes Linstead - Live!

Gemini Sun Records Presents: Live! Starring David Arkenstone, Loren Gold, Nicholas Gunn and Johannes Linstead
2008, Gemini Sun Records

Despite the "new age" moniker, you can't imagine a recording from the likes of David Arkenstone, Loren Gold, Nicholas Gunn or Johannes Linstead as boring or tired. But if you take all four of them and place them in an intimate concert setting, and allow them to play together in duos or groups as they see fit, and you're talking about the potential for magic! Live! is a CD/DVD featuring a 74 minute concert, and is musically breathtaking.

Before you do anything else, skip to the last track, Djunga, which sees all four taking the stage together with a full backing band. There is magic in the interplay for these four world-class musicians as they turn into the ultimate jam band for 7 1/2 minutes. Other highlights include Nicholas Gunn's Earth Bones, Loren Gold's For My Baby and Sunnyside, David Arkenstone's Dance In The Desert, and Johannes Linstead's Ambrosia. All of the recordings can be found on studio albums of the four musicians here, but the energy of the live performance is commanding, and there is a certain chemistry that just makes the studio recordings seem obsolete.

Live! is an effervescent cross-section of the four enduring stars on Gemini Sun Records' roster. The only drawback is that there are brief interview segments that overlay the openings of the songs. The information gleaned in these interview segments is interesting, but tends to detract from the recording. These segments were part of the DVD recording, and it is unfortunate that they couldn't be tracked out of the CD presentation. Otherwise, this is an amazing listen.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Live! At Gemini Sun Records . Live! Is available at most major music retailers.

CD Review: Rose Gerber - Sisyphus

Rose Gerber – Sisyphus
2008, Rose Gerber

Rose Gerber is a Boston native who is currently based out of Brattelboro, Vermont. She has been featured as an emerging artist at The Falcon Ridge Folk Festival in both 2001 and 2003, and has toured and recorded both as a solo artist and as part of the group Relative Strangers. 2008 Sees the release of Gerber's 3rd solo album, Sisyphus. Sisyphus is an artistic step forward for the uber-talent singer-songwriter with whom you should become acquainted.

Rose Gerber has a musical vibe that runs somewhere between Shawn Colvin and Sarah McLachlan. The real motivation for you to listen to Rose Gerber is the songwriting, as she has quite the talent for wrapping intelligent lyrics within tuneful and complex compositions and creating beautiful sonic tableaus. Sisyphus opens with Comfortable, which is a fine example of such aural beauty. Gerber then moves on to Head Banging, which in spite of the title creates the impression of ambivalent longing.

The title track, Sisyphus sounds like it could have walked off an early Indigo Girls album. There’s just a touch of a country accent to this song that somehow transforms it from an interesting song into a great one. Other highlights include Fillet of Soul, Mercury and Lie Awake, but there isn’t a song here you won’t enjoy

Rose Gerber is mature beyond her years as a songwriter. Her lyrics are intelligent and communicative without being overwrought, and the music she writes is lush and full and beautiful. Sisyphus is a plateau in the career of Rose Gerber that one imagines will lead to a glorious peak.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Rose Gerber at www.rosegerber.com. You can purchase a copy of Sisyphus at www.cdbaby.com/rosegerber2.

CD Review: APOSTLE - Lyrical Activism

A.P.O.S.T.L.E. - Lyrical Activism
2008, Seven Soldiers Productions

APOSTLE embraces a social consciousness in his music that is refreshing, and needed in the stale, gangsta-ridden art form known as rap music. With special guests DJ Quest, Stereo Lion and Viveca Hawkins, APOSTLE lays down a mix of lyrical and free-style wrap with heavy dub work and funk. In combining social awareness, ancient mysticism and a potent lyrical ability, APOSTLE has created a dynamic and moving record in Lyrical Activism.

One of the first things that will strike you about APOSTLE is the incredible lyrics he writes. He raises the bar on lyric poetry for rap artists everywhere, and creates a tableau of ideas that combines with the music to enmesh the listener in his thoughts and ideas. The Voice is a prime example: a free-style rap/poem that is disarmingly candid and thoroughly moving. Somewhere Between is another fine example of the APOSTLES lyric strength. In truth there is not a weak track here. The element is real yet positive, shining a light on truths we all know and perhaps bringing new understand along the way.

Other highlights include 21st Century Moor, Operation Raise The Dead and All I Know, which all feature the inestimable DJ Quest. Viveca Hawkins provides vocals for Power Of Music, Promised Land and Breath Of Life. If you're not familiar with Viveca Hawkins, now is the time to get in the know. She has a fantastic voice and is always a treat to listen to. Also make sure you check out We Are One, featuring Stereo Lion. This may well be the finest track on the album.

Just as an aside, it is refreshing to see a member of the rap community who not only preaches a positive message but lives it. APOSTLE is the founder and director of the Colorado Hip Hop Coalition, which serves youth in his home state through after school programs and assemblies. APOSTLE also currently teaches poetry classes for Youth Speaks, a national literacy program.

Lyrical Activism is real. There are no punches pull here and no half-truths, but the delivery is positive, and the lyrics show that APOSTLE is a world-class talent. If more hip-hop/rap were of this quality, I'd be more of a fan. If you're a fan of the art form, then you won't be able to put this disc down. Lyrical Activism is worthy of the Desert Island Disc Certification!
Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about APOSTLE at www.7soldiersproductions.com, where you can purchase a copy of Lyrical Activism.

CD Review: Aoede - Push And Pull

Aoede - Push And Pull
2008, Aoede

Aoede is a band with talented musicians in David Sands and John Walden, but it is really a vehicle for vocalist/songwriter Lisa Sniderman. Part Amie Mann and part Kate Bush, Sniderman exudes a painfully wrought honesty on Push And Pull. This is true singer-songwriter confessional material, without pretense or machination.

There is an urgency that runs throughout Push And Pull. Most of the time it's buried deep within the music, but it boils to the surface in songs such as in Nothing's Gonna Stop Me or Paper Tiger. This sort of angst-ridden desire displays Sniderman at her best. Annalis is a sadly beautiful epoch poem masquerading as a post-modern ballad, and is the centerpiece of Push And Pull. And if you're in for a little Belly-inspired anti-love song, check out Don't.

Aoede could have been transported from the early-90's, when a variety of female bands entered the alternative rock foray with post-punk influenced mellow rock songs. Aoede might easily have been the class of them all. Push and Pull is a remarkable vulnerable-yet-tough album full of great songs that stand on their own integrity. There's not a lot of fuss here -- no trend of great hooks or pop flavoring: just great songwriting, a unique and memorable voice, and tight musicianship. And what more, really, could you ask for?

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Aoede at www.aoedemuse.com, where you can purchase a copy of Push and Pull. You can also purchase downloads of the album or any individual songs from either iTunes or Amazon.com

CD Review: Animate Objects - Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma

Animate Objects - Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma
2007, Animate Objects

More attention should be paid at Hip-Hop/Rap that eschews the marketable gangsta image and tries to be real. Chicago's Animate Objects does more on one album to forward the musical art form of hip-hop/rap than an entire generation of ersatz gangstas has managed. Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma brings sharp, intelligent poetry and mixes it with imaginative and inventive hip-hop Philadelphia Soul. eMCee CZAR Absolute is part Tupac and part Isaac Hayes, bringing a warmth and intelligence to the fore in his music that is lacking in much of the hip-hop/rap that makes a splash on top-40 radio.

Animate Objects is very well known in the Chicago area, and deserves to be widely known and revered far beyond Second City. Their mixture of eMCees, a DJ and live instruments in their live show sets them apart musically from a lot of acts out there. The fact that Animate Objects project positive messages in the music while still talking about the problems facing Black America in real terms is also refreshing. Songs such as Midnight Blue, Phoenix and Zeno's Paradox are wonderful representations of the artistry on Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma. There are also a couple of ballads here (Beautiful, Slow) that are definitely worth bending your ear for.

Also check out Get Back! for one of the most fun and entertaining songs you've likely heard in a while. I can only begin to imagine what a live show would be like, but it certainly sounds like an entertaining night out. Animate Objects is at the head of the class for intelligent and accessible hip-hop/rap. Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma is true to the artistic vision of Animate Objects, and doesn't fall prey to the traps of commercial hip-hop. Embrace Animate Objects.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Animate Objects at www.animate-objects.com, where you can purchase a copy of Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma. You can also check them out and stream some audio at www.myspace.com/animateobjects.

CD Review: Steve Lieberman, AKA The Gangsta Rabbi - Psych Ward

Steve Lieberman – Psych Ward
2008, Steve Lieberman

Steve Lieberman, AKA The Gangsta Rabbi, has been making music for 40 years in one capacity or another. On his 14th release, Psych Ward, Lieberman shares his experiences as a Manic Depressive, in the hopes of helping others who experience the same illness.

Psych Ward is low-fi garage recording all the way. It's a cross between the Wesley Willis Fiasco and Jethro Tull, with a little bit of Ozzy Osbourne thrown in. This is one of the most bizarre recordings I've ever heard, but somehow strangely charming. Lieberman tackles aspects of his illness and society's response to with (one supposes) humor, biting rhetoric, and a lot of angry ranting (in musical form). From the musical parody of The Divinyls (When I Think About You) I Cut Myself to the hilarious Wrong Day To Go Commando, Lieberman will leave you chuckling, laughing out loud, and occasionally just scratching your head.

Other highlights include Jew In An Institution, Spring, and I Got Suspended. The material on Psych Ward is probably not appropriate for the kiddies, as some of the subject matter is a little on the adult side (An Hour To Masturbate), but there is a juvenile joy that comes through the music; even in songs that sound angry. Lieberman is a talented musician, and may well be able to go toe-to-toe with Ian Anderson on the flute.

Psych Ward is a bizarre sonic treat for those with the constitution to get through it. It's fun, funny, bizarre, and not a little unbalanced. Steve Lieberman is either daft or part genius. I'll leave it to you to decide.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Steve Lieberman at www.gangstarabbi.com. You can purchase Psych Ward at www.cdbaby.com/lieberman14.

CD Review: Catherine Duc - Visions and Dreams

Catherine Duc – Visions And Dreams
2005, The Orchard

Catherine Duc is an award-winning composer of a fusion of celtic/electronica/worldbeat sounds. Her compositions have been awarded by The Philips Song Competition, The PLC Song Competition, the International Online Music Awards and the LA Music Awards. This Australian-born instrumentalist issued her debut CD, Visions And Dreams, in 2005. It is a mellow yet mind bending experience.

Catherine Duc's Celtic/New Age hybrid has found many fans over the past few years. Her compositions are generally programmed track beds with at times inspired melodies and turns of song. Highlights here include Dancing In The Mist, One Autumn Day and Incense.

Ultimately, many readers will find this to be dinner music or background music. Visions and Dreams covers new age/easy listening sounds that have been done many times over. While the album is very well done and enjoyable to listen to, it’s not the sort of project that will inspire multiple listens for folks who aren't hardcore fans of either Ms. Duc or of this particular brand of electronic/new age/dance music.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Catherine Duc at www.catherineduc.com. Her website offers multiple links and options for purchasing Visions and Dreams.

CD Review: Lorraine Reid - Lessons Learned

Lorraine Reid - Lessons Learned
2008, Soundcheck Entertainment

Lorraine Reid is a 7-time JUNO Award nominee. For those of you who do not know, JUNO is the Canadian Grammy Award. These nominations were earned as the lead singer of Temperance, one of the most popular dance groups in Canadian history. After taking a number of years off to teach, Lorraine Reid has found a more mature sound, and returns in 2008 with her solo debut, Lessons Learned.

Lessons Learned treads the well-worn path of popular R&B/soul without falling prey to the modern how-many-notes-can-I-sing-in-this-run excesses fueled by Mariah Carey and American Idol. There's a reason for this, Lorraine Reid has a voice most singers would kill for. She doesn't need to rely on tricks or effects to convey her music, because she can blow you away with power, or with vulnerability, or just with the warmth of her voice.

How Do I Keep Him is an absolute gem, and should be a chart-topper. I also particularly enjoyed Introduce Myself, Ready Tonight and No More. Even where I might not have liked particular songs as much as others, the voice and artistry of Lorraine Reid shines through like a beacon. Lorraine Reid is literally one of those singers who could sing the phonebook and still sell out shows. Lessons Learned is solid album with plus and minus songs, but the voice and performance quality offered by Ms. Reid overcomes any minuses here. This is what a real diva sounds like.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Lorraine Reid at www.myspace.com/lorrainereid, or at www.musicdish.net/lorrainereid. You can download tracks from Lessons Learned at www.amiestreet.com/lorrainereid or iTunes. I was not able to identify whether physical CDs were currently available anywhere, but I will update this if information becomes available.

CD Review: Kerry Leigh & Expresso Lane - Walking Through Walls

Kerry Leigh and Expresso Lane – Walking Through Walls
2006, APRA

Sydney, Australia seems to be a breeding ground of great, if unsung, musical heroes. Kerry Leigh and Expresso Lane are a Sydney-based band with influences including Chris Rea and Mark Knopfler who deserve to be heard far and wife. Their debut CD, Walking Through Walls, is an unusually poised and intelligent debut album. Smart lyrics, wonderful music arrangements and a certain spark all combine to make this disc a great listen!

If you're a Mark Knopfler fan you're going to love this disc. Kerry Leigh plays guitar with the same innate understated genius that Mark Knopfler is known for. He has a somewhat repressed delivery as a singer that works quite well for him. Little Bit Crazy is a fine example of Kerry Leigh in his element. The music is incredible; the vocals sharp and very much "on". No Lovin' is full of the gentle guitar trills that have been known to fill out Dire Straits albums over the years.

South Side is my personal favorite here, but Only Heaven Knows is a definite close second. Didn't Find It Here is an enjoyable listen, and the untitled bonus track shows that Kerry Leigh knows how to really rock, complete with Hammond B-3 effects. Kerry Leigh has made an excellent rock album, and while the sound is perhaps just a little too laid back, the overall effect is excellent.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Kerry Leigh & Expresso Lane at www.myspace.com/expressolane. You can purchase a copy of Walking Through Walls at www.cdbaby.com/klel.

CD Review: Kaiser Cartel - March Forth

Kaiser Cartel - March Forth
2008, bluehammockmusic

Courtney Kaiser and Benjamin Cartel bring their brand of infectious pop forth from Brooklyn, NY for the world to hear. A duo that occurred almost by accident, they bring a vocal beauty and an instrumental ingenuity to popular music that one does not often find. On March Forth, the musical significant others invite you into their living room; their lives. March Forth is a bit of musical genius.

Kaiser Cartel has a laid-back ease reminiscent of early Cowboy Junkies recordings. March Forth finds them at their musical best, with songs such as Oh No, Travelling Feet, and The Flood. Season Song is a definite must-hear, with it's whistle filled chorus and gorgeous melody. Favorite Song is also worth the trip here

Kaiser Cartel is the sort of enigmatic group that could be around and playing when their kids are going to college. March Forth is emotionally strong and moving. It has flashes or moments of genius, but even when it doesn't quite get there it's still outstanding:

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about the Kaiser Cartel at www.kaisercartel.com. You can purchase a copy of March Forth at Insound.

CD Review: Dudley Saunders - The Emergency Lane

Dudley Saunders - The Emergency Lane
2007, Fang Records

Dudley Saunders is a bit of the Americana you crave.  The performance artist turned singer-songwriter delivered his third album The Emergency Lane, in 2007.  It is a tuneful experience with great writing, great singing, and some of the best rock arrangements you'll likely hear for some time. 

Dudley Saunders sounds like Gordon Lightfoot and John Mayer's voices were somehow melded into a new instrument.  It's a pleasant and yet somehow unsettling combination that is interesting and richly textured.  His songwriting is complex and little bit out of the ordinary.  Look For Me is an interesting opening, and leads into Love Song For Jeffrey Dahmer, which is either woefully sick or darkly hilarious, depending on your perspective.  My personal favorite here is The Rain On 8th Avenue, which is kind of like a street scene set to music.  Dudley Saunders displays an incredible ability to create mental images from his lyrics and music.  Unlike many artists, the music Saunders composes supports and enhances the lyrics like shading and fine detail bring out the subject in a work of art. 

Saunders also displays a sharp wit, ala Lyle Lovett or Randy Newman.  Bad Driver and Mushy-Headed Kid play to this aspect of his musical personality.  The arrangements are sparse and starkly beautiful on The Emergency Lane.  The intermixing of serious subject matter with witty observation over the course of a long career could carve out a niche similar to those maintained by the aforementioned Newman and Lovett.  There's a little bit of Mark Twain in Dudley Saunders, and a whole lot of wonderful music. 

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5) 

You can learn more about Dudley Saunders at www.dudleysaunders.com, where you can order a copy of The Emergency Lane.

CD Review: Deni Bonet - Last Girl On Earth

Deni Bonet - Last Girl On Earth
2008, M.R2 Records

Deni Bonet has played with everyone from Sarah McLachlan to Daniel Lanois; The Indigo Girls; Shawn Colvin; Richard Thompson; Warren Zevon, Bruce Cockburn and many, many others. She has spent years supporting and filling out the sound of other artists, and now has decided to bring her own sound to the fore. On Last Girl On Earth, the New York City based artist brings a vivacious and lyrical sound that you absolutely have to hear.

Last Girl On Earth is one of those albums that is at times absolutely inspired and at others tired and derivative. Too Much Fun shows the spark of joy that should go with rock and pop music. Don't Turn Away From Love has the sort of ska-horn section one might expcct from the Mighty, Mighty Bosstones. Here there is energy and light and it ends up soinding like Deni Bonet had fun making this recording. Also notable are punk-celtic tinged I Want To Get Arrested, F456 It, and the remake of Word Up.

Where songs don't work it's because the recording comes across as just a little bit flat. Whether this is a production issue I can not say for certain, but Deni Bonet does not give the impression of a low-energy performer. In general, Last Girl On Earth is a solid album, and worthy of at least a listen. It will be a little too straight forward for some readers, but will definitely find an audience.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Deni Bonet at www.denibonet.com. You can purchase a copy of Last Girl On Earth at www.cdbaby.com/deni2.

CD Review: Danielle Antonio - Elements

Danielle Antonio – Elements
2006, Dani Brae Music

Danielle Antonio definitely has the DIY spirit. Starting out as a singer/songwriter in Denver, CO in 2001, Danielle Antonio has built a library of songs and a score of experiences. 2006 was a watermark year for Ms. Antonio. In that year she relocated to Brooklyn, NY to try to make it in the Big Apple, and also released her debut CD, Elements.

Elements displays a love of rock and roll, 60's era Motown and 1970's soul. Elements is interesting, at times exciting and mostly successful. Hold A Candle could have walked right off a Phil Spectre record, and Hurricane is a soulful rocker that in itself makes this a worthwhile purchase. Stringing Me Along builds on a strong blues/soul riff and a quasi-disco beat to make a great party/dance song.

Other highlights include the straightforward Caught In A Landslide, the bluesy Got No Go and Shadows Of The Moon, which has a bit of a country twang to it. Overall this is an excellent album. There were a couple of songs here that didn't work as well for me, but all indications point to a bright musical future for Danielle Antonio. Check out Elements -- you won't be disappointed.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Danielle Antonio at www.danielleantonio.com. You can purchase a copy of Elements at www.cdbaby.com/danielleantonio.

CD Review: Chris Perren - Propaganda

Chris Perren – Propaganda
2007, Chris Perren

Chris Perren is a talented music writer and producer from Brisbane, Australia. He parses his time between the band Mr. Maps, writing music for animations by Black Brow, and writing scores for theater and film. He has a wicked sense of humor, and he likes to play around with his keyboard and find new sounds/moods/attitudes. His debut solo EP, Propaganda, hit the internet in 2007.

Propaganda starts out with A New Logic, a sweet mellow-rocker that is fit for Adult-Contemporary radio. See You Soon Temp Master has a country feel to it, and is gorgeous ballad that would do quite well on CMT. Severing Ties is also a must-hear, with a big, layered sound not evidenced elsewhere on Propaganda.

Propaganda falls into that category of recordings that are pleasant to listen to but not awe-inspiring. Chris Perren is a very talented composer, and the material here is good, but there's nothing here that inspires me to go back to this disc again and again. That will be different for different people of course, so I encourage you to check it out.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Chris Perren at www.myspace.com/chrisperren. You can find downloads of songs on Chris’ MySpace page or on LastFM.com. It is unclear whether this album is being sold commercially at this time.

CD Review: Blue Jar - Pelican Crossing

Blue Jar - Pelican Crossing
2007, Blue Jar

Blue Jar has been described as akin to Irish/Gypsy Jazz. Listening to their full length debut, Pelican Crossing, a finer moniker can not be found for this Belfast, Ireland trio. Drawing on the best of the three traditions listed above, Blue Jar has created a lilting and mysterious master class of songs on CD!

Opening with an instrumental take on jazz standard I've Found A New Baby, Blue Jar breathes the most life into this standard since the Squirrel Nut Zippers took it on in the 1990's. This may be the favorite of some listeners due to familiarity's sake, but there are other tracks here worth investigating. Czardas is a lilting yet sleepy European coffee-house tune. Love Song Without Words is a beautiful throwback to the era of black and white movies romances.

After You've Gone is perfect 1950's Supper Club fare, and will have your toes tapping from the start. Other highlights include the melodramatic Dark Eyes, Blue Moon and El Relicatio (can you say Tango?). Blue Jar displays amazing musicianship and the occasional wave of pure inspiration in their playing. This is a real chance to broaden your musical horizons and catch on to same amazing music. Pelican Crossing is a welcome addition to the music marketplace, and Blue Jar should be around making great music for some time to come.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Blue Jar at www.myspace.com/bluejarbelfast. You can purchase a copy of Pelican Crossing at www.cdbaby.com/bluejar.

CD Review: Crooked Still - Still Crooked

Crooked Still - Still Crooked
2008, Signature Sounds

Crooked Still is about as traditional country as it gets. Crooked Still have developed a sound that is founded in the old time country that developed out Celtic and folk movements in the early 20th century. With vocalist Aoife O’Donovan offering up her golden voice on these 13 songs, Crooked Still can not miss. Add in some of the tightest musicianship you'll hear on a country album and you've got a sophomore album for the ages. Still Crooked is a classic.

I can not find a weak song here, but personal highlights include Tell Her To Come Back Home, The Absentee and Low Down And Dirty. Oh Agaememnon is a must for country fiddle purists, and has one of the more memorable melodies on Still Crooked. Also make sure to check out Pharaohe and Poor Ellen Smith, the latter of which will have you two-steppin' in spite of yourself.

Crooked Still is an incredibly talented outfit with an ear for infectious melodies, tight musicianship and the unforgettable voice of Aoife O’Donovan. Still Crooked is a classic album that will sound as fresh a generation from now as it does today. And yes, it is definitely a Wildy's World Certified Desert Island Disc! Don't overlook Crooked Still, they just might be huge before they're done.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Crooked Still at www.crookedstill.com. There are links on their web page to several locations to buy Still Crooked as well as their two previous releases.

CD Review: Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge - You're What You Wish You Are

Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge - You're What You Wish You Are
2006 Arbinsongs/BMI

I mean, come on, how seriously should you take a band whose lead singer was on NBC’s Singing Bee with Joey Fatone. If Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge’s debut album, You’re What You Wish You Are is any indication, you should take them very seriously indeed. New York City based Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge has a sense of melody that rivals that of U2, and a sense for keen hooks that sweep you away into their songs.

Opening with the funky Complicated, Citizens of Contrary Knowledge throw down the gauntlet at the outset of You're What You Wish You Are . Complicated has real chart potential with the right push. Lonely Hearts Society continues the blues/soul flavor in a heavier rock song. Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge have an amazing sense of melody and harmony, and an ability write these wonderfully hook-heavy rock songs. House Of Cards is one of those songs that stick in your head. I've been humming it for days now without any provocation.

You're What You Wish You Are is the sort of debut album most bands dream of. It's got subtlety and great rock and roll all at once. You're What You Wish You Are is a must-have album. Your collection isn't complete if Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge isn't in the mix.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge at www.citizensofcontraryknowledge.com or www.myspace.com/citizensofcontraryknowledge. You can purchase a copy of You're What You Wish You Are at www.cdbaby.com/citizensock.

CD Review: Carrie Rodriguez - She Ain't Me

Carrie Rodriguez - She Ain't Me
2008, Manhattan Records

On August 5th Manhattan Records will release the sophomore album from Carrie Rodriguez entitled She Ain’t Me. This is a follow-up to 2006’s Seven Angels On A Bicycle, and marks musical growth and transformation for Ms. Rodriguez. The Austin, TX born, classically trained violinist learned along the way that the classical mold would not hold her. After being spotted by Chip Taylor (Angel Of The Morning, Wild Thing) in 2001, Rodriguez began her ascent. Learning on a European Tour that not only could she sing, but that audiences loved it when she did, Rodriguez has never looked back.

She Ain't Me is a peppy alt-country album with rock and soul influences. Infinite Night is an excellent start and leads into the title track. She Ain't Me has an autobiographical quality to it that could make it a long time concert staple. Carrie Rodriguez has a voice you can't help but get into. Her sultry alto has the right mix of vulnerability and toughness that would allow her to sing gibberish and still be interesting.

Absence is my favorite track on She Ain't Me, opening with celtic/bluegrass violin and a martial beat. Rodriguez changes things up into folk territory on El Salvador, and settles back into classic country balladeering on Mask Of Moses. The Big Mistake and Grace cover more standard country territory, while El Dorado returns to a Celtic-come-Middle Eastern sound over a rock bed. The album closes out with Can't Cry Enough, which is the perfect ballad to close out a country album with big ambitions.

She Ain't Me is an absolute treat. It's varied in sounds and styles, but rather than becoming confused or muddled, Carrie Rodriguez comes across as a many-faceted and ultimately talented artist. Her voice alone is worth the price of the disc, and I am quite confident that you will find something to love here. Carrie Rodriguez has arrived.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Carrie Rodriguez at www.carrierodriguez.com or at www.myspace.com/carrielrodriguez. She Ain’t Me will be released on August 5, 2008, and will be available on Amazon.com , and most major music retailers.

CD Review: Aaron Acosta - Wave

Aaron Acosta – Wave
2005, Aaron Acosta

Aaron Acosta is a jack of all trades, from music composition to lighting design for theater, shows, etc. There isn't a single technical aspect of performance or presentation that he does not understand. In 2005 he released his second electro-acoustic album, Wave.

Wave mixes acoustic and electric sounds in an experiment of musical free-form thought. From the Jazzy, trip-hop Trap to mellow house beat of Deception, Aaron Acosta covers all the bases in between. Far is perhaps the class of the album, sounding like Harold Faltermeier on a vision quest. The sound is relatively consistent throughout. Wave is pleasant, but not challenging.

If you like mellow music that mixes in real-world acoustics then this is for you. Wave is a step up from the electro-acoustic recordings available featuring nature sounds, and is pleasant to listen to, but fails to truly inspire.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Aaron Acosta at www.aaronacosta.com. You can purchase a copy of Wave at www.cdbaby.com/aacosta2.

CD Review: Porter Block - Off Our Shoulders

Porter Block – Off Our Shoulders
2008, Engine Room Recordings

Porter Block is a New York City band with serious chops. They focus on developing song arrangements that can be delivered equally in a live setting or on CD, with driving guitars, anthemic choruses, and harmonies that evoke The Barenaked Ladies (Washington Post). Porter Block released their Sophomore CD in May 2008. Off Our Shoulders is a fine example of modern rock drive and pop sensibility.

One thing I will say is that Porter Block has some of the best harmonies I've heard on a rock record. There's something very Eagles about the vocal mix in Porter Block, and this makes the choruses extremely pleasant to listen to. In general Porter Block has quite the mellow rock sound. If you could imagine The Gin Blossoms with Alan Parsons as chief writer it may give you an idea of how to begin to classify Porter Block.

Lonely Levon is a fun listen, and Sun Goes Down is a touching ode to a boxing hero. What The Future Holds is a groovin' blues-based acoustic rocker that will get your feet moving, and Well Gone Dry is a successful alt-country rocker with crossover potential.

In general the material here is good, but I had a hard time finding anything that I specifically connected with. It's very apparent that Porter Block is quite a talented band, but not much here really stood out as better than just good. There is one exception. All Of Who I Am is the sort of confessional singer-songwriter song that you might expect from Ben Folds or Marc Cohn. This could be a signature song and alone is worth the price of the CD. Off Our Shoulders is definitely worth giving it a spin, even if it's just for All Of Who I Am. Make sure you check out Porter Block.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Porter Block at www.porterblockmusic.com, where you can purchase a copy of Off Our Shoulders.

CD Review: Christian McKee - Tripas De La Miseria

Christian McKee – Tripas De La Miseria
2008, Christian McKee

When the music's this good, you have to give it away. Christian McKee is an English songwriter with a decidedly non-commercial bent. His latest release, Tripas De La Miseria, is available for free download on his website. Generally if someone is giving away entire albums for free it's a sign they can't sell them. In the case of Christian McKee, it’s a sign of a different attitude about his music, because the songs and the album are definitely worth plunking your money down for.

Christian McKee has a voice that is terribly familiar, and I still can't quite put my finger on who it is (perhaps someone out there will chime in). That vocal familiarity lends itself to the general impression that you've heard these songs before. Tripas De La Miseria is like someone you went to high school with 20 years ago but don't recognize upon meeting again. There's something familiar. Tripas De La Miseria has an easy feel about it based in Christian McKee's mellow rock song. I particularly enjoyed Marlane, Just As Well, and Me & Georgina. Also check out Pop Song for a bit of fun.

This is light fare, mellow and entertaining pop songs with low-tech production values and something of an 80's feel (like songs you might have heard on the soundtrack to an 80's Brat Pack movie). I recommend it as a pleasurable listen.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Christian McKee at www.christianmckee.com, where you can download a copy of Tripas De La Miseria for free.

CD Review: Carlos Bertonatti - Times Are Good

Carlos Bertonatti - Times Are Good
2008 Epic Records/Sony ATV Publishing

Carlos Bertonatti has the right idea. Listening to tracks from the Miami singer’s Times Are Good you can easily here the pop craft that lay behind them. With slight Latin and soul influences in the background, you can almost hear the synched drum beats and canned keyboards that many producers would have packaged these songs in. Somewhere along the line someone figured out just how good these songs sounded in their raw form and decided to let them stand on their own. Carlos Bertonatti's voice and delivery over sparse drumming and acoustic guitars (with the occasional repressed Stax horns) comprises what might be the best pop album of the year thus far.

Times Are Good opens with Its So Easy, a breezy love song that has the potential to make Bertonatti a gazillionaire. Perfect Picture is a gem, with a chorus you'll be singing throughout the summer. The Little Things will have you grooving in your seat while conveying a positive message. All of these great songs aside, I would direct your attention to A Million Miles, which may just be a masterpiece in song. I suspect that if Carlos Bertonatti is still performing thirty years from now that A Million Miles may still be his encore song. It's a song of love lost in a minor key with strings, gorgeous harmonies, and kind of a wall-of-sound motif. It just doesn't get much better than this.

Still, there are other high points here: So Many Ways is an upbeat acoustic rocker, and Story Of A Little Girl is a moderate ballad about a disaffected debutante with a chorus that is unforgettable. One Two Three is another song that some producer will probably take and turn into a dance mix mega hit (rightfully so). Luckily the album version sticks with the acoustic tapestry established throughout Times Are Good, and this is a definite hit-pick.

There isn't a weak song here. I honestly don't know if Carlos Bertonatti has a weak song in him. He displays an ability to not just write lyrics but tell stories in the form of deliciously pop oriented songs that eschew the usual tricks and enhancements that take pop music away from music and closer to programming. Times Are Good is a smashing debut that has the potential to take the pop charts by storm, and is definitely a Wildy's World Desert Island Disc. As this album has now been picked up by a major label, don't be surpised if it's a #1 CD that reigns in the top 10 through the summer and into the Holiday shopping season. That aside, it's an amazing debut. Carlos Bertonatti is a major talent. Book your thirtieth anniversary tour tickets now.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Carlos Bertonatti at www.myspace.com/carlosbertonatti or www.carlosbertonatti.com. Carlos signed a deal with Epic and Sony ATV in 2008 to release Times Are Good as a joint venture. As of the time of this writing an official release date had not been announced, but it is expected in 2008.

CD Review: Bryan Gorsira - The Best Years

Bryan Gorsira – The Best Years
2008, Bryan Gorsira

What is a a 50 year old Wildlife Biologist doing putting out on CD? That would probably be your first question, and you'd be right to ask it. Bryan Gorsira has been writing songs for over thirty years. By his own admission he is not the performer he might like to be, so he's enlisted the help of some very talented people to help make his musical vision shine (Tom Manche, Dana Cooper and Julie Forester, to name a few). The first thing you should know is that Bryan Gorsira is actually a talented songwriter, and with the musical guidance of Tom Manche, has created a surprisingly pleasing collection of singer/songwriter tunes called The Best Years.

The title track sounds like something that could have been a #1 hit on 1980's country radio, and wouldn't fare too badly in today's market either. Caught is a piano ballad ala early Tori Amos (without Faerie talk). Love Is Pain is a definite keeper as kind of a blues-tinged country tune. Carry Me Away dances right into honky-tonk territory and will have your toes tapping. New World is another song that might have some commercial potential on Adult Contemporary radio, and Hide My Heart is worth picking this disc up for.

This is an interesting collection. There are flashes of brilliance here, and there are some things that just didn't work for me. The high points are good enough to make The Best Years worth having. I am certain that most readers will find something here that speaks to them, which speaks more to the success of Bryan Gorsira's songwriting than I ever could.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Bryan Gorsira at www.bgorsira.com. You can purchase a copy of The Best Years at www.cdbaby.com/bryangorsira2.

CD Review: The Meddling Kids - The Meddling Kids

The Meddling Kids – The Meddling Kids
2007, Mister Cat Records

Nestled in the sleepy little Webster, NY, a suburb of Rochester, comes a little band with big dreams and even bigger sound. There's not much to do in the wintertime in Upstate New York's snow belt, and so The Meddling Kids came together as a band. Named perhaps for the outcry of every villain ever captured by Scooby Doo & The Gang, The Meddling Kids bring classic rock steel and an 80's feel to modern rock. The Meddling Kids released their self-titled debut in 2007. There was much rejoicing.

The Meddling Kids are a guitar-driven rock band with a sound that combines a classic rock sound with great pop hooks. Their use of harmonies and straightforward melody lines makes their music extremely accessible. The most commercial song here is It's Over, lamenting the loss of a relationship. Goodbye is another great pop/rock tune here, relying on big crunchy guitars and harmonies and a relationship on the verge of collapse. Also check out Turn Back and That Something, both of which are worth a listen.

The Meddling Kids dish up a solid debut album with lots of big crunchy guitar sound for your listening pleasure. Some of the songs work out well (the band seems to have a touch for writing great songs about bad relationships), others are not quite as successful, but overall it's a solid album.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about The Meddling Kids at www.myspace.com/themeddlingkidsrock. You can purchase a copy of The Meddling Kids at www.cdbaby.com/meddlingkids. Also be sure to check out their cover of I’ve Done Everything For You on the upcoming Rick Springfield tribute entitled Working Class Dogs.

CD Review: The Bloodsugars - BQEP

Bloodsugars – BQEP
2008, Engine Room Recordings 

The Bloodsugars are something to be sweet on.  This New York City quartet combines modern/Indie rock sound with something resembling 80's synth-pop to create a sugar-coated confection that will have you up dancing the night away.  BQEP is the band's debut offering: Six disparate songs that will have you bouncing off the walls.

BQEP is full of delicious new-wave keyboard riffs, crunchy guitars and an admirable pop sensibility.  The energy and sound here is sometimes reminiscent of early Police recordings.  Songs such as Cinderella and Bloody Mary are absolutely infectious, and will have you dancing in spite of yourself.  Saint of Containment has a nifty R&B vibe that devolves into post-punk mania, and Uh-Oh is a wonderfully eccentric and beautiful ballad.

The Bloodsugars are unique and original and thoroughly a delight to behold.  This is post-punk pop at it's absolutely finest. BQEP displays the sort of witty pop sensibility that exists in the best of rock and roll, regardless of sub-genre.  BQEP will leave you begging for more from The Bloodsugars.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about The Bloodsugars at www.thebloodsugars.com, where you can purchase a copy of BQEP.

CD Review: Annette Neumann - It's A Long Way Down

Annette Neumann – It’s A Long Way Down
2007, Annette Neumann

Annette Neumann has lived the American Dream. After seeing Kathy Mattea on Hee Haw at the tender age of ten, she knew she wanted to write and perform her own music. Over time her affection for country music turned to the more stripped bare traditions of roots/Americana music. 2006 saw the Leitchfield, KY resident release her full-length debut CD, It's A Long Way Down. Neumann's debut is full of great songwriting and a hope for musical purity, and is a hit on all accounts.

It's A Long Way Down is kitchen-table recording at its best. The recordings are not perfect, there are mistakes here and there that the discerning ear will pick up, but it is a very effective and at times powerful recording. Annette Neumann brings the gravitas as a songwriter of Emily Saliers (Indigo Girls) and a presence that suggests Kathy Mattea or even Bonnie Raitt at times. Highlights include the title track, Meet Me, A Better Place, Heavy Load and Pieces Of You And Me. The track Bitter Shade Of Grey is a true gem and is worth seeking out this CD for.

The production values aren't 100% clean, and the recording is closer to an untouched live recording that a true studio recording, but It's A Long Way Down is definitely worth your time and attention. Annette Neumann, with the right producer, could be a star.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Annette Neumann at www.annetteneumann.com. Ms. Neumann recently signed with Colt Records, so I do not know if the availability of It’s A Long Way Down has changed in light of that fact. You can purchase three songs for download currently on her site.

CD Review: Last November - Over The Top Or Under The Weather

Last November - Over The Top Or Under The Weather
2007, Southern Tracks Records

Occasionally you'll come across a rock band that has a knack for smart, incisive lyrics, or a great sense of melody, or wonderful hooks, or a smooth sound. It’s much more unusual to find a band that displays all of these qualities on a consistent basis. Be that as it may, on Over The Top Or Under The Weather, Last November show themselves to be one of the rare bands that have it all.

I spent a couple of days trying to figure out who lead vocalist Luke Pilgrim reminds me of, and I am still at a loss, but there is a definite familiarity to his distinctive voice. One of the things about Last November that surprises is the chameleon-like way they adapt to different styles/sounds throughout Over The Top Or Under The Weather. Last November is equally comfortable in a pop-ballad as they are in a driving alt-rock tune, and comports the sort of energy on CD that must only explode to greater heights in the live environment.

Highlights include Sunday Afternoon, which has Top-40 single written all over it (There's a violin singing my name somewhere / And I hear a piano that's slightly out of tune / Oh and I swear ... I can smell apple pie / Oh it must be a Sunday Afternoon). Jesus Had Breakfast In Bed is the most aggressive rocker on the album, with big crunchy guitars and riffs so hot they'll melt your speakers. Oh, and in the middle of the chorus you'll hear some of the most perfect harmonies you've ever heard in a rock song. This is far and away my favorite on the album.

New York Rain comes back to the pop realm, and sounds like something you might have heard on early-80's AM/FM pop stations. Other highlights include Hot And Cold, Merry Christmas Little Match Girl and I'm Not A Doctor But I Play One On TV.

Last November has the near-perfect mix of rock music with pop sensibilities, and just a little bit of punk cred. It's always hard to tell how tastes will run from minute to minute in the music business, and commercial radio isn't exactly invested in finding new artists when they can play the same 11 songs every hour, but hear me on this. Last November could be HUGE. Over The Top Or Under The Weather might be the best pure pop/rock album of the year thus far.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Last November at www.lastnovember.com, where you can purchase a copy of Over The Top Or Under The Weather.

CD Reviews: KeyDragon - Dragon Prophecy/Legends Of The Dragon

KeyDragon - Dragon Prophecy & Legends Of The Dragon

KeyDragon is a band consumed with dragon lore and mythology. They have issued a series of albums based on Dragons and their lore. Today we review two of those releases: Dragon Prophecy & Legends Of The Dragon.

KeyDragon's sound is definitely in the heavy metal realm, with the "dragon vocals" provided by Ron Langford in a sound that is more growl than singing. Other vocals are provided by Tamara Venus Star who has outstanding pipes. The music is fairly straightforward metal, with some leaning towards gothic or dark metal sounds.

I'll preface this by saying that the ever-presence of Dragons as song subject is a little much for this reviewer. At times it's as if so much concentration has been placed on telling stories about dragons that the music itself has suffered, but there are definite highlights. Dragon Propechy is highlighted by Maud And The Dragon and Fafnir's Tale. Fafnir's Tale is perhaps the most commercial song on Dragon Prophecy. The true gem here though is Facing The Dragon, which opens with a keyboard riff that devolves into a wonderfully variegated, guitar-driven ballad.

Legends Of The Dragon is perhaps just a bit heavier in mood and attitude. The Dragon Prince opens with piano arpeggios that grow into delicious minor key guitar progressions. Die Lang Dragon also relies on the keyboard to guitar transition that seems to be an earmark for KeyDragon. The highlight of Legends Of The Dragon is Cooper And The Dragons.

Let's be frank here, this is a niche band. KeyDragon isn't necessarily going to appeal to a wide swath of the listening public. Some people will be put off by the subject matter, and there are times when the music comes across as forced because the message is king here, not necessarily the music. BUT. If you are a progressive metal fan with some dark leanings, you will appreciate most of what KeyDragon is doing musically. And if you are a Dungeons and Dragons fan or a fan of dragons in general, this is probably right up your alley.

KeyDragon shows brief flashes of brilliance, particularly in the guitar work. It would be something to hear this band writing and playing a wider range of material, where writing choices were not so constricted by the singular subject matter they've chosen, but there are definite high points here worth checking out.

Ratings: Dragon Prophecy - 3 Stars (Out of 5)
Legends Of The Dragon - 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about KeyDragon at www.keydragon.com. You can purchase a copy og Legends Of The Dragon at www.cdbaby.com/keydragon9. You can purchase a copy of Dragon Prophecy at www.cdbaby.com/keydragon7.

Review: Andrew Thomas & The Believers - Sister Golden Hair

Andrew Thomas & The Believers – Sister Golden Hair
2008, Andrew Thomas & The Believer

Brooklyn, NY is as American as apple pie. You want good pizza? You can check out Vesuvio on 3rd Ave. You want the best Italian sandwiches anywhere? Try Carluccio’s in Dyker Heights. You want the best Kosher Deli? Try Adelman’s. You can find pockets of some of the best of Chinese, Middle Eastern, Russian and other cultures in Brooklyn. What you don’t expect to find is Classic Americana music informed by kitchen table country and 60’s folk music. Andrew Thomas & The Believers come from the streets of Brooklyn, and have released Sister Golden Hair as a download through their website.

This is low-fi recording at its best. Sister Golden Hair is full of the mirth that comes from any band that really enjoys what they are doing. The album has a complete 1960’s feel to it. One can almost hear Dylan singing along on backing vocals here. Highlights include Working Man, California, Indochine and The Conversation. Andrew Thomas’ free and easy vocals and the incredibly tight-yet-loose playing of The Believers make this an enjoyable listen from start to finish.

Sister Golden Hair is currently only available for download, but the band did send me a hard copy for review. So if you’re stuck on hard media like I am, and you ask them really, really nicely, maybe… In any case, Sister Golden Hair is a fine album. It’s not musically world-shaking, but it’s good time music that is well-delivered. It offers much hope for the future work of Andrew Thomas & The Believers.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can download Sister Golden Hair for $9.99 at www.myspace.com/andrewthomasandthebelievers.

CD Review: Amy Speace - Songs For Bright Street

Amy Speace – Songs For Bright Street
2006, Wildflower Records

What I find impossible to believe is that I have not heard of Amy Speace before now. To think that an album like Songs For Bright Street has been out on the market for two full years and has not been written up/played/trumpeted on every available bit of popular media is unthinkable. Amy Speace is an inimitable talent, and Songs For Bright Street is a masterpiece.

Let’s get the comparisons out of the way. Yes, there is a vocal resemblance to Rosanne Cash, but as a songwriter Amy Speace is non-pareil. Delving into the heartbreak and melancholy of country music with a folk/rock sensibility and a class and reserve reflective of the best of Alison Krauss, Amy Speace has created an album full of classic tunes that cannot be ignored or denied.

The Real Thing is the sort of country/rock anthem that should support Ms. Speace for the rest of her life. It has a universality and classic feel to it that should make it covered by other artists for generations to come (ala These Boots Are Made For Walkin’). Step Out Of The Shade is the sort of feel-good song that tends to do very well on country/pop radio these days. The song itself is outstanding, and pales in comparison to much of the remaining material on Songs For Bright Street. Two is the sort of song that gets chosen as first-dance material at country-themed weddings, and is quite simple, a beautiful ballad.

Other highlights include Make Me Lonely Again, Shed This Skin, Right Through To Me and Double Wide Trailer. Songs For Bright Street closes out with the pensive Home, which serves as an exclamation point on Speace’s lyric ability. The fact is that Amy Speace is one of the most exquisite talents I’ve had the pleasure to review thus far. As a songwriter I would put her in a class with the likes of Jason Plumb, Lyle Lovett or Randy Newman.

Songs For Bright Street is a Desert Island Disc. In a perfect world Amy Speace could buy all the desert islands she wanted from the proceeds of this disc. If you don’t own this album then you can’t think of your music collection as being complete. Songs For Bright Street gets Wildy’s World’s highest recommendation.

Rating: 5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Amy Speace at www.amyspeace.com. You can purchase a copy of Songs For Bright Street at www.cdbaby.com/amyspeace3, at Amazon.com, or as download through iTunes.

CD Review: The Lions - Sounds Familiar

The Lions - Sounds Familiar
2008, The Lions 

Familiar, indeed.  Calgary’s own The Lions released their full-length debut CD in 2008 under the moniker Sounds Familiar.  Sounds Familiar is a brilliant mesh of garage, surf, rock and Americana influences that sounds as fresh as it does familiar. Sounds Familiar is approached from styles that would be very comfortable on your local oldies station, but updated to sound modern and new rather than antiquated. 

Opening with an ode to the 1960's - the guitar riff from Secret Agent Man, the Lions quickly bring you into today with In The Long Run.  In The Long Run could be the working class anthem of today ("In the long run/we're gonna make it out of this hole").  Good Time Girl draws on a garage sound with a big full guitar sound and a bass line that will drive you around for a while. 

The Lions show their easy-going, Orbison-esque side on It's Not Love, and their fun side on Yeah Yeah (Yeah Yeah).  Here they come across as a Kinks/Clash hybrid.  Other highlights include Girl Like You and the exquisite Doesn't Matter To Me, which is joyous and melancholy all at the same time. 

The Lions aren't stuck in the 1960's, but they've definitely taken the tour a number of times.  They've managed to take their interpretation of that particular era of rock and make it fresh and new for the twenty-first century.  They come across as a high-energy band where the love of music trumps everything else.  They are a pleasure to listen to, and Sounds Familiar is an instant classic. 

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about The Lions at www.thelions.ca or www.myspace.com/thelionsrockband.  You can purchase a copy of Sounds Familiar at www.cdbaby.com/lionsrock, or you can purchase digital downloads through iTunes.

CD Review: Michael Marton - Once Alive

Michael Marton - Once Alive
2007, Michael Marton

For the initiated, the Canadian Rock scene has long included a tremendously varied array of sounds and styles, owing to the efforts that Canada has put into encouraging the independence and diversity of its musicians and musical styles. Consequently artists have come onto the world scene from Canada that may have not had the chance for similar exposure if they had originated in the stale corporate music culture of the United States. Unfortunately some of this has started to change in recent years as major record labels have made more inroads into Canadian Culture and found ways to subvert things such as the Canadian Content Rule. Nevertheless, there continues to be a diversity of sound and style in Canadian Musical Culture that is absent (or at least much harder to find south of the 54-40 (the line, AND the band).

I bring this up because it's time to take a look (listen) to Michael Marton, whom I believe is one of the unique products of a musical environment that Canada has worked hard to foster and maintain. Michael Marton is a singer-songwriter in the tradition of Bruce Cockburn, who is one of the singular legends in the Pantheon of Canadian popular music. Like Cockburn, Marton mixes in politics and real life experience into rock songs that are both thoughtful and fun. On his debut CD, Once Alive, Michael Marton has offered up his world view and muse. It is a worthy and fantastic effort.

Opening with the jangly guitars of Off To War, Marton lays out the justification for every war, petty or great, that mankind has fought. Off To War is a great rock song with a compelling message, and is the ideal start to this set. Once Alive is a lilting rocker with just a bit of country or prairie air to it. This is perhaps the finest song on the set, but I'll let you judge. Other highlights include Blinded, with its jazzy piano runs, and Attention. Attention is probably the most radio-ready song on Once Alive, and should find comfortable placement among the Adult Contemporary set.

Also be sure to check out Baby Don't Cry and I Won't Go as songs of interest. Michael Marton writes dynamic rock and roll songs. The musicianship here is top notch, and Marton's quirky voice juxtaposes a sense of sincerity and reality onto the songs offered here. I give Once Alive a strong recommendation to my readers as a fine example of the singer-songwriter craft and of how it is still relevant and real when done right.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Michael Marton at www.michaelmarton.ca, where you can purchase a copy of Once Alive. You may also purchase the album as a download through either PureTracks or iTunes.

CD Review: Live Fish - For All We Hope

Live Fish - For All We Hope
2007, Live Fish

Contemporary Christian music has come a long way in the past 20 years. In the late 1980's there was a significant quality gap between CCM and popular music you might hear on the radio. This gap was evident not only in the quality of the songwriting, which tended to be very clique and glib, to the production values encountered on many CCM CDs from that time. The advent of artists such as Stryper, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Jar of Clay and Five Iron Frenzy have transformed CCM into a viable commercial art form while still focusing on the ecumenical goal of the art. Live Fish are one of many beneficiaries of the advance of CCM as a musical art form, and offer up their own entry into the popular music library, For All We Hope.

Live Fish musically come across as a heavier version of Matchbox 20. The songs are hook heavy and poppy, with perhaps just a bit stronger guitar presence than Rob Thomas and company. That said, there is something very formulaic about For All We Hope. The album is very listenable and commercial, but fails to distinguish itself from its peers in either CCM or commercial rock and roll. The focus here is more on the inspirational side of CCM as opposed to worship, and the album will certainly find its fans. It's not a bad album, just not a great album.

Missing is the highlight of this particular album, with Beautiful Life and Fade Out coming in close behind. Fade Out is the heaviest rocker here and definitely will get your feet moving. This may be a big hit in the CCM community, but unfortunately there are just too many bands in the commercial realm with a similar sound -- there's no musical “whoa!” moment here to make For All We Hope stand out.

All is not lost however. As I've noted, it's a good album, and the band is very solid from instrumentation to vocals. There are flashes of greatness here, and with additional time to write/play together, Live Fish might find their piece-de-resistance yet.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Live Fish at www.livefishband.com, where you can purchase a copy of For All We Hope.

CD Review: Costanza - Sonic Diary

Costanza - Sonic Diary
2008, ZerOKilled Music 

She was once the muse of Tricky, but Italian techno artist/vocalist Costanza has built quite the following.  On her full-length debut, Sonic Diary, Costanza offers an interesting mix of covers and original tunes laid over dreamy hypnotic beats. 

Sonic Diary is a mish-mash of tunes and beats, some of which work well and some where the result is less clear.  I would tend to say that this album is more satisfying artistically than it is musically.  Costanza shows a lot of what she can do on Sonic Diary, and it is a pleasant listen, but is not something I would feel drawn back to.

Sonic Diary opens with an immigration questionnaire set to music (Just Another Alien), which becomes more tedious than interesting.  One imagines this to be a political statement of some sort, but allowing the text of the document to speak for itself is unimaginative, at best.  Highlights, on the other hand, are God's Gonna Cut You Down (Johnny Cash) and Back Into My Mothers Womb, both of which capture a little bit of the energy and spark that much of Sonic Diary seems to just miss. 

Sonic Diary is an interesting exercise.  It works on the level of being pleasant music, easy to digest in the background, but does not have the emotional or artistic punch to truly be memorable or interesting.   

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Costanza at www.myspace.com/costanzafrancavilla, or www.costanza.tv.  You can purchase a copy of Sonic Diary at www.cdbaby.com/costanza3.  

CD Review: Copper Box - Need A Little Squeezin'

Copper Box - Need A Little Squeezin'
2008, Copper Box

If you want to know how to make a party go mad with delight, you start with the band. You can go the traditional straightforward rock route, but if you want to appeal to a broad array of attendees you've got to have some variety in the sound. So you take elements of Rock, Country, Zydeco, Pokla, Klezmer and even some Jethro Tull-inspired flute playing and you mix them up into one musical super group. Or you could just pick up Need A Little Squeezin', the dynamic and wonderful new CD from Oshkosh, Wisconsin’s own Copper Box.

I'm guessing you'll likely never see Copper Box on MTV-2 or VH-1, but this is an incredibly entertaining band nonetheless. Need A Little Squeezin' works because it is firmly ground in the fundamentals and styles of music that has pleased crowds for ages, but has a modern edge and energy to it similar to the life Brian Setzer breathes into his music.

The title track, Need A Little Squeezin' starts off the album with a bang, with the wonderful (and sorely under-represented) vocals of Michelle Jerabek. Her voice has a true Nashville sound with just a hint of a rock edge to it, and is much more interesting than a lot of the bland voices that float out of Nashville these days. This is followed up by Apple Of Your Eye, which has some of the best Ian Anderson-inspired flute playing this side of, well, Ian Anderson.

Need A Little Squeezin' avoids the whole Lawrence Welk sound that I always envision when I see an accordion (although Hopeless Lover definitely rides the edge). What you get instead is a vivacious presentation of new songs in the Zydeco vein, or snappy, modern interpretations of the occasional classic (Jambalaya). Copper Box has created a musical framework that should (in theory) do for Zydeco what Setzer did for small-band swing a number of years ago. Need A Little Squeezin' is a rollicking good time, and will cause spontaneous smiling and dancing at any sensible party. It's a must-hear.

Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Copper Box at www.copperboxsite.com, where you can purchase a copy of Need A Little Squeezin’ as well as two of their other releases.

CD Review: Cold Steel - Cold Steel

Cold Steel – Cold Steel
2008, Cold Steel

Cold Steel comes barreling out of Carson, IA like a freight train out of control. This foursome from the Midwest has its eyes on you, and it’s either move out of the way or get swept along. On their self-titled debut, Cold Steel draw on metal and glam rock elements to create a trip back to the best days of 1980’s hair metal.

Led by brothers Alex (Guitar, lead vocals, profanity) and Matt DiBaise (Lead guitar, vocals, shenanigans) Cold Steel lays down a sound reminiscent of the days of Motley Crue, Ratt, and Twisted Sister. The sound is bit more modern, but the general mood and attitude reflects that of 1980’s MTV metal. Highlights include Everyday’s The Same, Something Wicked and Your Disease. The Motley Crue cover (Looks That Kill) is also definitely worth the price of admission.

All in all, this is a very successful debut CD. It establishes the Cold Steel sound and is a more than sufficient starting place for a band looking to make a career of their talent and ambitions. The sound is a bit dated, from one perspective, yet it’s a sound that seems to be coming back into vogue some. The only real constructive criticism is that the music on the CD comes off a little bit flat at times, compared to what I am certain is a very dynamic live sound. I’m not sure if this is just a limitation of the CD format or if it was a production choice. It detracts a little bit from the disc, but not enough to keep it from being recommended.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Cold Steel at www.myspace.com/coldsteelband. You can purchase a copy of Cold Steel’s self-titled debut through their website.

A slow couple of days...

We've wrapped up our first six months here at Wildy's World, and have taken the last couple of days for a little breather. After writing 149 reviews since January (66 in June alone), a little break was due. But never fear, we'll be back tomorrow with more reviews!

Also in the next few weeks you will see the debut of Wildy's World's artists profiles. These will be quirky interviews and bios with artists we've reviewed, like, or just think are interesting.

So onward into tomorrow. You keep sending your recordings and reading along, and I'll keep telling the world about them!

Be well.

Wildy