Black Symbol Presents Handsworth Reggae Explosion Vol 1

Bristol, UK's Reggae Archive  Records, and its sister label Sugar Shack Records are committed to resurrecting great British reggae recordings of the past, as well as supporting current reggae artists.  And as we've written before, it would be an error to dismiss this material because it isn't from Jamaica.  Jamaican immigrants to the UK spawned a thriving reggae scene, and many Jamaican reggae artists performed and resided in the UK.  And the crucible of minority status and the cross pollination with rock and roll resulted in tough, tight rhythms and hard-hitting messages.

Today's featured release is Black Symbol Presents Handsworth Reggae Explosion Vol 1.  Consisting of two contributions each from five artists -- Sceptre, Black Symbol, Truth & Rights, Gerald Love, and Zephaniah -- this reissue of a rare UK classic record originally was released  only in vinyl format by Reggae Archive Records.  A second volume was released for UK's record store day, also in vinyl.  The label is preparing to release a CD containing both volumes, but also is making volume 1 available as a digital download as well as vinyl.  For reggae collectors, this is a 'must have', but anyone who appreciates the pulsing bass, dub effects and chanting vocals of roots reggae will find this a compelling listen.

Sceptre --

Black Symbol --

  

Truth & Rights' "Saddest Moment" --


Zephaniah --



Bandcamp for album
Reggae Archive Records

Burner + Break Me Up cassette, plus free downloads from ScotDrakula

Melbourne boasts a number of very good guitar pop bands, but ScotDrakula isn't one of those bands.  But what ScotDrakula is should demand your full attention.  My first reaction after listening to their music was "yeah, that's why I spend the time looking for new music".  This is punk/garage rock with attitude, rage, energy and noise.  And underneath it all, there are really good pop songs and some raspy soul.  So, you may jump around enough that you get a bit of beer on your shoes, but you will have a good time.  And I suspect it won't be the first time that beer touches your shoes.

ScotDrakula released the 7-track LP Burner in November 2012, and the two-track Break Me Up EP in November 2013.  Austin, Texas label Fleeting Youth Records have combined those nine tracks for a cassette release that is available today.  You can stream the album ('try before you buy') at the Bandcamp link below.  Note that the track "Stupid Everything" is a free download from Bandcamp and "Break Me Up" can be downloaded from the Soundcloud stream below.  The songs feature meaty hooks, vocals on the edge, and bass and drums appealingly high in the mix.  The band is Matt Neumann (guitar/vocals), Evianne Camille (drums/vocals), and Dove Bailey (bass/vocals), but if you didn't know that you'd guess that there were more people involved.  If you are planning a party, might some day plan a party, or just thinking of getting in the car and going for a drive, this is a release you will want (Warning: Liquid Jesus likely will cause you to exceed the speed limit; please listen responsibly).





Facebook
Twitter
Bandcamp for Burner + Break Me Up cassette
Soundcloud link for "Stupid Everything"
Fleeting Youth Records

Howard Eynon - So What If I'm Standing In Apricot Jam

People who pay attention to dogs fuss and fawn over the purebreds, often those from breeds recently featuring in a movie.  But as a long-time dog lover I firmly believe that the most rewarding interactions are with the shaggy, undefinable mixed breeds.  They have the personality, intelligence, emotional resources and willingness to please that earns the 'title man's best friend'.  And I suggest that sometimes music is a bit the same way.  The more rewarding listens can be the shaggy, out-of-left-field and previously overlooked recordings.  And that brings us to Howard Eynon and his So What If I'm Standing In Apricot Jam.

A UK born Australian, Eynon was an actor and musician.  His guitar playing and singing on stage prompted an invitation to go into the studio.  The result was So What If I'm Standing In Apricot Jam, his sole recorded output.  We can be completely honest with each other -- the title suggests that the music could be a bit on the oddball side.  Let me assure you, our instinct is not completely off base.  However, while the music clearly reflects the sensibilities of an artist accustomed to theatrical performances, and perhaps mind-expanding experiences, it also reflects a talented songwriter and performer that will have you drawing comparisons to Kevin Ayers, Syd Barrett, Donovan and Nick Drake.  It is a wacky but substantial and rewarding ride through Enyon's imagination, with poetry, characters and meta commentary on the proceedings.  Overall, the collection is witty and whimsical, but never slipshod.

We have included streams of several songs below for your evaluation.  I recommend all of them, but if you only have time for two, don't miss "Happy Song" or the perfect end-of-the-day tune "Now's the Time".

This album originally was released in 1974.  Earth Recordings has resurrected it and we are thrilled they did.  It is available on CD, black vinyl, and limited edition apricot colored vinyl.  Probably the best way to obtain the album is via Fire Records (link below).  By the way, in addition to his work in theatre, Eynon had small roles in Mad Max and The Man From Snowy River.  As a musical performer, he toured briefly with Hunter S. Thompson.










Earth Recordings on Facebook
Earth Recordings on Tumblr
Fire Records page for album

Springtime Carnivore - Springtime Carnivore

I'll start this post with the conclusion, the debut, self-titled album from Springtime Carnivore is one of the best pure pop albums from a female vocalist I've heard this year.  There are nostalgic shades to her pop melodies, such as hazed and fuzzed instruments.  Greta Morgan's voice, on the other hand, is bigger than life.  It has the capacity to fill large arenas and coo to the little tables in a small club.  It can belt and warble.  And most strikingly, it conveys youth, but not innocence.  At times one can hear a bit of Kate Bush, or even Lesley Gore.  But Morgan's style has a palpable playfulness that is her own.  There are some very nice ballads in the set, but in my opinion the album soars highest with the upbeat songs.  My current favorites are "Name on a Matchbook" and the delightfully '60s influenced "Collectors".

Multi-instrumentalist Greta is a veteran of bands Gold Motel and Hush Sound, but for this project is mostly her, her keyboards, Chris Faller on bass and production on a few tracks from Richard Swift.  The album is out now via Autumn Tone Records.  Springtime Carnivore is touring in February and March, and you can check out the dates and venues at the bottom of the post.






Website
Facebook
Twitter
Autumn Tone

SPRINGTIME CARNIVORE 2015 TOUR DATES (w/ The Dodos):

Tue. Feb. 10 - Sacramento, CA @ Harlow's

Wed. Feb. 11 - San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall

Fri. Feb. 13 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy Theatre

Sat. Feb. 14 - San Diego, CA @ The Casbah

Sun. Feb. 15 - Phoenix, AZ @ The Crescent Ballroom

Mon. Feb. 16 - Tucson, AZ @ Club Congress

Wed. Feb. 18 - Austin, TX @ The Parish

Thu. Feb. 19 - Dallas, TX @ Three Links

Fri. Feb. 20 - New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa

Sat. Feb. 21 - Birmingham, AL @ Bottletree

Sun. Feb. 22 - Atlanta, GA @ Vinyl

Mon. Feb. 23 - Durham, NC @ The Pinhook

Tue. Feb. 24 - Washington, DC @ Black Cat

Thu. Feb. 26 - Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda's

Fri. Feb. 27 - Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg

Sat. Feb. 28 - Hamden, CT @ The Space

Sun. Mar. 1 - Allston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall

Mon. Mar. 2 - Montreal, QC @ La Sala Rossa

Tue. Mar. 3 - Toronto, ON @ Horseshoe Tavern

Thu. Mar. 5 - Ann Arbor, MI @ Blind Pig

Fri. Mar. 6 - Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall

Sat. Mar. 7 - Minneapolis, MN @ 7th St Entry

Tue. Mar. 10 - Spokane, WA @ The Bartlett

Wed. Mar. 11 - Seattle, WA @ Neumos

Thu. Mar. 12 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge

Mon. Mar. 16 - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater

The Persian Leaps - Drive Drive Delay

Overflowing with chunky riffs, ringing chords and sweet hooks, Drive Drive Delay form The Persian Leaps delivers is a delicious winter stew of power pop, college rock and shoegaze.  Think Teenage Fanclub with a touch of My Bloody Valentine  and doses of the band's Minneapolis brethren Husker Du and Sugar.  In my opinion, "Truth" best illustrates the band's virtues the best, but all five tracks are really good.  If you like loud, muscular power pop bound together with a bit of sweetness, this is as good as it gets.



The Persian Leaps are Drew Forsberg (founder/vocals/guitar), Brad Hendrickson (bass/vocals/guitar), and Michael McCloskey (drums/vocals).  Drive Drive Delay is out now in the US via Land Ski Records; check the Bandcamp link below.  It will be available in the UK in early 2015.



Website
Facebook
Bandcamp
Soundcloud
Twitter
Land Ski Records

Introducing: Blonde Tongues

Cal, Aiden, Jack and Dougal are Brisbane's Blonde Tongues.  We like them because they play jangling dream pop, just the way we like it.  We also are particularly fond of them this season, because they offering the great new tune, "Hey Good Lookin'", and two prior singles, for the every popular 'name your price'.  This is a holiday deal you shouldn't miss.









Facebook
Bandcamp
Soundcloud

Sväva - We Have Just the Life We Want

Sväva is a very intriguing dream pop band from The Netherlands.  Bente Hout (vocals/bass), Michelle Hindriks (guitar), Olivier Copini (guitar), and Jelmer Terwal (drums), met at the Academy for Popculture in Leeuwarden, and began to work on fleshing out songs written by Hout and Hindriks while they were traveling through Scotland, England and France.  The band infuses dream pop songs with dark tones and intricate riffs, providing a fitting foundation for Hout's vocals.  With an impressive range -- an upper register that recalls Harriet Wheeler of The Sundays matched with great power -- she may be one of the more compelling vocalists in the genre.

The band has released an impressive four-track EP, We Hve Just the Life We Want, which is available on Bandcamp.  You can watch the video for the second track, "Flown", below, and stream the entire EP.




Website
facebook
Bandcamp
Twitter

Casual Sex - A Perfect Storm / Pissing Neon

Our post punk men about Glasgow, Casual Sex, have brightened our holidays with a new two-track single, A Perfect Storm / Pissing Neon.  The first track is a polished gem, with synths and guitars combining to provide a melodic, but utterly dance-worthy, foundation for the relaxed vocals.  If you traveled in the right circles in the '80s, you might have heard something similar, but probably not as well done.  "Pissing Neon" offers a completely different vibe, with a rhythm dominated arrangement, harsh accents and urgent vocals.

The single is available now from We Can Still Picnic as a digital download and limited edition 7" vinyl.





Webpage
Facebook
Twitter
Order page for record
We Can Still Picnic on Tumblr

Love Sport - Gol!! EP

The tendency of indie rockers to have more than one project going at a time hasn't missed Finland, and we, the listeners, are the winners.  Aki, Mikko, Petri, and Teemu, members of other Finnish bands Hopeajarvi, Lady Escape, Big Wave Riders and Black Twig, have teamed up in Love Sport.  The alert folks with the cultured ears at Helsinki's Soliti Music secured the honor releasing their debut record, the Gol!! EP.  It is an intriguing introduction, with five tracks spanning the spectrum of psychedelic guitar pop.  It begins with the tangled, swaggering blast of "Well..Shit".   Other tracks, such as "Goodbye Brains" and "Pink Rhumba", provide a dreamier track reminiscent of the first album from Avi Buffalo. Good stuff, and we hope that an album is in their future.







The Gol!! EP is available now as a digital download and, for those who collect such artifacts, cassette.

Facebook
Soundcloud
Soliti Music

Rolling Stones Friday: Dance Little Sister

We didn't realize it at the time, but The Stones 1974 album It's Only Rock 'n Roll was in some ways the end of the line. Sure, the tremendous live performances continued for 4 more decades and continue today. But the recorded output never regained the consistently stellar level of the mid '60's-early 70's.

It's Only Rock 'n Roll began a much more predictable and tepid era, far less threatening and innovative, the title track essentially conceding they'd run out of creative gas.

But The Stones are so good that even their tossed off stuff is still quite enjoyable. One such throwaway track from It's Only Rock 'n Roll that I've always enjoyed is "Dance Little Sister":

This was Mick Taylor's final album with the Stones and they were at their best in my opinion with the sort of nasty and aggressive guitar he brought the band, exhibited on "Dance Little Sister".   Though here's an excellent live version (audio only) from a club show in Toronto in 1977 with Ron Wood on guitar:

REVIEW: Posse - Soft Opening

This is a bit embarrassing.  A friend recently asked my if I'd covered Soft Opening, the debut LP from Seattle's Posse because they are a local band and it is the sort of music I like.  I was fairly sure that I hadn't reviewed the album, but the name of the band was familiar.  So I searched the draft folders for the blog (informally referred to as the 'lazy man's wall of shame'), and discovered that I'd created a stub post for the review last spring.  Apparently, I then got busy doing other things great and small, and wrote no more about the album.  Usually, such a post sits on a wall of shame until the responsible lazy man deletes it or, if really lazy, lets it sit in draft state for years.  But I really can't do that to Posse, because Soft Opening is a fine album and you deserve reading about it and the band deserves you reading about it.

This is guitar-dominated music, which is to be expected from a three-piece consisting of two guitarists and a drummer.  The guitars are ring and jangle, with a clean sound that most recalls Real Estate, or several current Melbourne bands such as Dick Diver and The Ocean Party.  But as the album unspools you'll discover that the arrangements aren't all derived from the same template.  Depending on your preferences and listening history, you may here a bit of Pavement here, a bit of Jonathan Richman, Yo La Tengo or the Pixies there.  The guitars seem to be having a bit of a friendly discussion with each other, which reminds me of Robert Scott and Kaye Woodward of The Bats.  For that matter the vocals are straightforward and conversational as well.  It is music delivered with no drama, and little in the way of hard edges.  But the melodic textures are richly layered with plenty of shimmer and some appealing quirky diversions.

The breathtaking opener, "Interesting Thing No. 2", in which Posse does about every thing they do well in just one song, was an obvious track to pick for your evaluation.  The relaxed, sublime, shimmering slacker pop of "Shut Up" -- yes, all six and a half minutes -- is another.  In determining whether I recommend an album I typically don't pay any attention to what other people say about it.  However, because I wanted to include a third song, I wandered the internet tubes to determine whether there was an additional consensus favorite.  What I discovered is that among people that loved the album and noted a favorite, the choices included nearly every song.  That suggested two things to me.  First, it confirmed that this album is full of good songs that connect with listeners.  Second, I get to choose the song I want.

I have spilled a magnum of digital ink over the past two years championing guitar pop music as played by many bands from Australia and New Zealand, only to find that one of the best albums in that vein this year was recorded by a band in my back yard.  I could feel a bit like Dorthy being told by the good witch in Oz that what I was looking for was in front of me the whole time, but that would require introspection.  So never mind all that, just get yourself a Soft Opening.






Posse is Sacha Maxim (guitar/vocals), Paul Witmann-Todd (guitar/vocals) and Jon Salzman (drums).  The album is released via the band's own Beating A Dead Horse Records, but the easiest way for most people to buy it would be to hit the Bandcamp link below.  There was a vinyl edition, but all copies have been sold.

Facebook
Tumblr
Bandcamp

eagleowl - Clean the Night

eagleowl is a collective of Scottish indie musicians who are active in other well-regarded bands when not performing as eagleowl.  Bartholomew Owl (guitar/vocals) and Malcolm Benzie (violin/guitar/vocals) formed the band in Edinburgh in '05.  Clarissa Cheong (double bass/vocals) made it a trio for several years.  The current version also includes Rob St. John (organ/harmonium/vocals), Hannah Shepherd (cello) and Owen Williams (drums).  They have just released the two-track "Clean the Night" for the wiaiwya-7777777 singles club.  It is the final single in wiaiwya-7777777's singles series for 2014, and in my opinion they are closing the series with style.  The title track is haunting and atmospheric, with lean instrumentation and female-dominated vocals.  In contrast, the following "Life We Knew is a gentle, up-tempo indie pop tune with a warm vibe that invites -- and rewards -- repeated listens.  This is one of those releases that prove that singles and EPs are wonderful ways to collect music.  You can stream both tracks below, and investigate more at the following links.




By the way, the seven discs in the 2014 singles series have specially drawn art work which, when collected, provide a how-to guide to releasing your own single.  Clever and helpful -- consider it a buyer's rebate of sorts.

eagleowl on Facebook
eagleowl website
Twitter
Bandcamp
wiaiwya-7777777
wiaiwya Records

"Waste the Alphabet" from Dick Diver

As good music news goes, there isn't much better news that a new Dick Diver album, titled Melbourne, Florida, will greet us in March of the new year.  But this news comes with the bonus unveiling of one of the songs, "Waste the Alphabet".  Playful, chugging, jangling and a bit shaggy, the lyrics result from a collaboration between the band's Al McKay and Melbourne poet Michael Farrell.  I'd say I missed these guys, but I regularly play their prior album, so I'll just say I'm excited to get more of them.



Facebook
Soundcloud
Twitter
Chapter Music
Trouble In Mind Records

Another taste of Twerps' upcoming Range Anxiety

We are big fans of the Twerps around here, so we are excited about their early 2015 release for Merge Records and Chapter Music, Range Anxiety.  We shared album track "Back to You" in October, and now we have the beautifully downbeat "Shoulders".  And as an added treat, we have the amusing video trailer for the album.  US fans also should note that the band will be touring the States in March and April, including a stop at SxSW.





Facebook
Twitter
Merge Records page for Twerps
Chapter Music page for Twerps

Crayon - Brick Factory

Hey pop collectors.  Here is a rare and wonderful album from the first half of the '90s.  The Pacific Northwest, was banging its collective head to grunge and other forms of alternative rock.  The Southeast had R.E.M, The dBs and its own brand of swampy jangle.  But amid it all, there was a spot for a noisy, lo-fi, merger of twee, punk and noise pop.  Born in the college and lumber town of Bellingham, Washington, there was Crayon.  Consisting of Brad Roberts (guitar/vocals), Sean Tollefson (bass/vocals) and Jeff Fell (drums), the band recorded a few singles and one album, Brick Factory, released in 1994 on Harriet Records.  By the middle of the decade, they had disbanded, with Tollefson and Fell leaving to found Tullycraft.  As the release of Brick Factory hits its 20th anniversary, HHBTM Records has issued a limited edition vinyl version of the album, which comes with a digital download with including 20 bonus tracks.  There is a cassette version with some bonus material as well.

The songs on Brick Factory deftly capture the awkwardness of young adulthood, the delight in the commonplace, the trickiness of romance, and wrapping it in distorted guitar, coy lyrics and bratty vocals.  The performances are energetic, and the music begs to be played at a high volume.  The record has been out of print and much sought after for years, so its resurrection is bound to delight old and new fans.  It may never come around again.








HHBTM Records page for vinyl
HHBTM Records page for cassette

Turns - Gone EP

Turns are a relatively new band from Los Angeles.  To me their music sounds like Ride covering The Jesus and Mary Chain for a neo psychedelic compilation.  And they absolutely nail it.  In what I believe is the band's first official record, Shelflife Records has released the three track Gone EP as a digital release.  You also can pre-order a 7" vinyl version from Shelflife, or a cassette from Lolipop Records.  The label suggests that the band could easily slot in with the late '80s Creation Records roster, and I'm think it is an astute observation.  But regardless of the label you put on it, it is good stuff.  My favorite is the closer, "You'll See", so don't miss it because it will make me sad.  Turns is comprised of Marco Cortes (bass), Michael Eng (lead vocals/guitar), Johnny Toomey (drums), and Danny Winebarger (vocals/guitar).


Webpage
Facebook
Shelflife Records page for EP
Lolipop Records

REVIEW: Witching Waves - Fear of Falling Down

London's Witching Waves are a serious lot.  In the last couple of years they have toured the UK three times and released three cassettes.  They've honed their sound, and added a bassist to the founding duo.  Their approach is DIY, but when one of your members is a professional sound engineer, you start out ahead of the class.  And all that culminates with their debut album, Fear of Falling Down, on Soft Power Records, and it is time for evaluation of the band's progress.

From this corner, they get a high grade.  The album consists of taut, angular indie rock with relentless, driving rhythms, and sharp, hard drum hits.  The vocals often sound defiant, although the lyrics tend to fall in the romantic vein.  Seasoning is provided via dashes of aggression and anxiety in some tracks, and jangling noise pop in others.  Although the '60s garage rock ancestry is apparent, I think this is garage rock deliberately re-imagined as post punk, with arrangements crafted to allow for changes in textures and dynamics and urgency blunted by intrusions of space and male/female sing along choruses.  The artful welding of these elements into a sturdy, pop-oriented rock album suggests good things for the future of Witching Waves, but more importantly it makes Fear of Falling Down a debut to which indie rock fans should pay attention.







Fear of Falling Down is out now on limited edition vinyl and via digital download from Soft Power Records.  Hit the Bandcamp link to stream or buy the album.

Facebook
Tumblr
Bandcamp for Fear of Falling Down
Soft Power Records

Nicholas Krgovich - On Sunset

Vancouver-raised, LA-based Nicholas Krgovich is a multi-instrumentalist and pop songwriter with formidable gifts -- gifts that he has provided to various projects with other musicians.  On Sunset is different than those past efforts.  This is his album, albeit his album with the contributions of talented friends, centered around his new city and telling its stories.  And like the city, Krgovich delivers with a wide scope, from the surging "The Backlot", to the slick R&B of "City of Night", to the gentle piano-driven ballad "Let's Take the Car Out", to the dreamy orchestral pop of "Rock's Dream", to the electro-funk of "You're Through".  If I had to use one phrase to describe the music, I'd say "it sparkles".  The hooks, the melodies, and the pictures evoked by the lyrics combine to suggest twinkling lights, compelling characters and a sense of place.  There is experimentation as well, but it never overwhelms the melody.

LA is a place where you can get lost, or find redemption.  But there is no risk to getting lost in this album.  Redemption is up to you. On Sunset is self-released, and is available at the Bandcamp link below.







Website
Facebook
Bandcamp for On Sunset
Bandcamp
Soundcloud
Twitter

Deathcats/New Swears - Deathcats & New Swears split

One of our favorite discoveries of recent years is Glasgow's Deathcats.  That doesn't make their recent announcement of their upcoming hiatus any easier to take, but we can take cheer in their pre-break release for Fuzzkill Records.  And this one is extra special because Deathcats' four lo-fi, fuzzy garage punk songs are combined with four rock nuggets from Canada's exciting New Swears.  The release is available as a digital download or a cassette plus digital download.

The record finds Deathcats in prime Deathcats mode - loud, swaggering, and proudly displaying a few rough edges, but with solid pop smarts under the fuzz and bashing.  For my money, "You" is the best track (narrowly edging out "End Game"), and you can enjoy the band playing the song in the video below.  One listen to "Satan Loves You", the first track from New Swears demonstrates that they are an apt pairing for the noisy Scots.  Upbeat, garage pop with sing-along choruses.  Both these band approach music as a good time, and make music that is perfect soundtrack for good times.  Is there a better reason to grab the record?  I think not -- stream it below and hear for yourself.








Bandcamp for album
Fuzzkill Records on Facebook
Fuzzkill Records on Bandcamp
Deathcats on Facebook
Deathcats on Bandcamp
Deathcats on Twitter
New Swears on Facebook
New Swears on Twitter

Alexander Wildwood - South of No North

I think New Zealand's Alexander Wildwood makes an thrilling first impression South of No North consists of five tracks of smartly crafted pop rock songs.  In some respects, it reminds me of the exuberant folk rock of Iceland's Of Monsters and Men, and that is pretty good company for a debut record.  The opening track, "Bad Blood", is the anthemic centerpiece, but the following four tracks ably illustrate the nuances of Wildwood's songcraft. In particularly, he builds tracks with appealing choruses and melodies that swell grandly, recede to simplicity, and then build again.  There is a summery feel to the collection, but maybe that vibe comes naturally to a guy who grew up on a sailboat.

Reportedly, Wildwood selected  the five tracks for South of No North from 30 songs he'd composed over the past couple of years.  The final selections speak to his abilities, but the process suggests a disciplined artist with a critical ear.  My advice is to go to Wildwood's Soundcloud page, download the songs and treasure them.  Then wait for more good material in the future.  I'm quite sure it will be coming.

Wildwood writes, performs, records and produces his own music, and has a studio near the ocean on New Zealand's east coast.







Facebook
Website
Soundcloud
Twitter

"The Lights In San Francisco" from Colourful Band

A few weeks ago we shared the news that Edinburgh's The Colourful Band was preparing a new album, and posted one of the tracks (here).  Ian McKelvie, Mr. CB himself, was in the states recently (I hope the surfing was as good as you hoped, Ian), and at the end of his trip he sent me the link to another as yet unreleased track.  It is called "the Lights In San Francisco", and it is a really nice tune.  So thanks very much, Ian.  But as you've now had your little vacation, get back to work and finish the album.



Website
Facebook

"Ain't Horrible" from Crepes

Crepes are Tim Karmouche, Nick Robbins, Pat Robbins, Jackson Dahlenburg, and Maceo Wood.  The Melbourne-based band makes relaxed, earworm intensive guitar pop.  The plan is to release an EP on the Deaf Ambitions label in 2015, but to let everyone know the quality that is coming, they have shared "Ain't Horrible".  A breezy tune with some hints of Dick Diver and the venerable Go-Betweens, I think Crepes will be a welcome addition to the scene.



Facebook
Soundcloud
Twitter
Deaf Ambitions

Wreckless Eric - The Hitsville House Band '12 O'Clock Stereo'

This is just what you'd hope for if you stopped in a road house looking for the kind of food a road house doesn't ruin and the kind of beverage that led you to choose a road house rather than a place for which you'd choose food.  The band is on the stage, sweating and pouring their hearts into the performance.  The music is all over the spectrum -- garage, indie rock, blues, and soul.  You hope they play long sets because you want to hear a lot more of it, and you hope you can sleep in your car for a while before you drive because as long as the band plays, you are going to stay.  And that means you may have a few more drinks.

Eric Goulden, aka Wreckless Eric is an English rock and roll treasure.  Fire Records previously  reissued two excellent mid-career albums from Wreckless Eric, 1989's Le Beat Group Electrique and 1991's The Donovan of Trash, but this one -- The Hitsville House Band '12 O'Clock Stereo -- is my favorite of the Fire WE reissues so far.  Recorded on analog equipment in mono in France with Parisian sidemen Fabrice Lombardo (bass) and Denis Baudrillart (drums), the newly dubbed Hitsville House Band recorded 12 tales of the type you should hear in a road house, either from the stage or at the bar, with enough precision to be worthy of the music and enough rough edges to do justice to the themes.  We don't need to discuss styles, genres or production.  Quite simply, this is rock and roll, and you are here because you love rock and roll.  This album didn't get the love it deserved when released in 1996, despite the efforts of John Peel, but thanks to Fire Records, you have your chance.





Wreckless Eric's webpage
Twitter for Wreckless Eric
Fire Records page for album

RIP: Ian McLagan (Faces, Small Faces etc.) 1945-2014

Ian McLagan: May 12, 1945 - December 3, 2014 

It's been a very tough week for great rock'n'roll musicians as we lost both Bobby Keys and Ian McLagan.

I never met Ian McLagan, but I have friends who knew him and they all rave that he was the best guy in the world. And he certainly came off that way when I saw him perform solo at a very small Portland club earlier this year - wonderful storyteller, warm presence, highly appreciative of his audience, and oh so musical.

McLagan's piano and keyboard work, generally on a Wurlitzer electric or a Hammond, is some of the tastiest and most memorable in rock history. 1970's FM radio was nearly defined by the incredible energy of The Faces "Stay With Me" - check out this live version that doesn't have much footage of McLagan but just listen to those keys leading the song's rollicking sound!:

     
McLagan was born in England and joined the Small Faces in 1965.  One of my favorites moments in the Small Faces catalogue is "Afterglow (Of Your Love)" driven by McLagan's powerful Hammond playing:

Am I the only one who can hear some future Big Star in "Afterglow (Of Your Love)"?
 
One of my favorite Faces songs was written by McLagan and Rod Stewart, "Bad n Ruin" released on Long Player in 1971:

Another Faces classic done here live and so well is another McLagan-Stewart composition, "Three Button Hand Me Down":

We could just go on and link Faces songs until tomorrow without getting tired of hearing them. But McLagan did so much more. He played with too many artists to name, including many of the best in the business: Chuck Berry, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Westerberg, Bonnie Raitt, Billy Bragg, Lucinda Williams and Jackson Browne.  McLagan fronted various of his own bands and made some great solo records, including one this year, United States that included this sweet and wonderful song "Love Letter":

He had been living for quite awhile in Austin TX USA and became a fixture on the rich local music scene there.

McLagan published an autobiography, All the Rage: A Riotous Romp Through Rock & Roll History, in 2000, and added to, appended and reprinted it in 2013.

He was one of rock's truly guys and we here at WYMA are truly sorry to see him go.

Rolling Stones Friday: RIP Bobby Keys

Bobby Keys died this week at age 70. Certainly one of if not the greatest sax player in rock and roll history, Keys' saxophone brought a tough and dangerous edge to the Stones' sound. His blistering one take, 30 second solo in the middle of "Brown Sugar" only added to the song's raw sexuality and is etched in every rock and roll fan's brain:

Keys played a major role on Exile on Main Street, especially "Rip This Joint". Gonna raise a little hell indeed:

We covered one of Keys' signature moments "Can't You Hear Me Knockin'" with its amazing extended saxophone jam by Bobby Keys on Rolling Stones Friday earlier here at WYMA.

Keys was a native Texan, once ran a nightclub in Florida owned by Ron Wood, and was most recently living outside Nashville when he died. While best known for his work with the Stones, with whom he both recorded and frequently played on tour, Keys also over the years recorded with all four members of the Beatles after their breakup (including John Lennon's "Whatever Gets You Through the Night", you remember that sax line), The Who, B.B. King, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eric Clapton, many many others including in 1961 when Keys was just a kid with Dion and the Belmonts on "The Wanderer", and this absolutely amazing live version of "The Letter" with Joe Cocker and his Mad Dogs and Englishmen in 1970:

We will certainly miss Bobby Keys. We'll leave you with a live version of "Miss You" from 1994, with Mr. Keys absolutely tearing it up:

Big loss for rock and roll and the world's greatest rock'n'roll band.

REVIEW: Total Control - Typical System

I will confess to being a bit tardy on covering Typical System, the second album from Melbourne's Total Control.   I had heard that there would be a delay in the US release this summer, so I put it aside and focused on other things.  Because it is a smashing record I returned to it from time to time, but it wasn't until recently that I realized that my post still was in draft.  Totally my fault, but what are you going to do -- sue me?

Typical System covers a broad swath of post-punk, synth pop and chillwave, mostly, but not completely, with a gloomy, atmospheric veneer.  But in addition to the trappings of gloom, these songs are infused with a sense of power and energy.  Perhaps at first listen it seems like a slice of the '80s, but upon closer inspection it just takes the bones of post punk and then constructs a fresh temple of dark, swirling atmosphere for the modern man or woman.  There is plenty of guitar and synths, but appropriately the bass and drums are high in the mix, pile-driving the songs into your brain.  And the gloom doesn't mean that it is devoid of humanity.  From the lyrics, playful synth frills, to bouncing bass lines and other sonic touches, their is warmth, heat, and perhaps some sardonic humor.  Even the most industrial of tracks, "Hunter", has a palpable soul, and the ten tracks speak of an artful balance.  You would be hard pressed to find another album that is this primal, yet this sophisticated.

You will see this album high on a number of year end lists, and absent from most.  It is that kind of album.  It will have a spot on mine.






My understanding is that the core members of Total Control are Dan Stewart (vocals) and Mike Young (synths/guitar) and they have recruited Zephyr Pavey (bass), Al Montfort (guitar), David West (guitar) and James Vinciguerra (drums) for Typical System.  The album is out now via Inertia in Australia and New Zealand, and Iron Lung Records in the remainder of the world.

Iron Lung Records
Bandcamp for Typical System
Iron Lung Records on Blogspot

Boyracer - Pete Shelly EP

Punk popping Boyracer has had a long career in the creases of the indie world.  Their work has been released by Slumberland, Sarah, Jigsaw, HHBTM and others, and the band has released over 800 songs sing 1991.  Apparently, that golden pension plan available to all indie rockers have vested, because the Pete Shelly EP is said to be their final release.  While I find that news sad, at least they are going out on a high note.  To be more exact, many high notes, many low notes, some percussion, some snarl, and all of it as loud as you like it.  None of us would have it any other way.

For the Pete Shelly EP, Chief Boyracer Stewart Anderson is joined by his spouse Jen Turrell and guitarist Matt Green.  The title track starts off proceedings with a song that is as close to an anthem as you likely will get with crash pop.  Replay it a few times - you deserve it.  "2nd Wave Mod" is a footstomper with sneering vocals, pounding drums and sawing guitars.  "The Kind of Man You Really Are" features a snaky groove.  Jen takes the lead vocals for the more indie pop, and very tasty, "Jump".  Play it loud, and play it proud.  Farewells don't have to be sad.

The record is released by Emotional Response Records, which is a label run by Stewart Anderson and Jen Turrell, who together previously ran the labels 555 Records and Red Square.  You can buy the vinyl or the digital download, and either one gets you two digital bonus tracks.  You can order via Bandcamp, but Stew and Jen advise ordering though their website at the bottom of the post, as it will be less expensive.



Bandcamp for release
Emotional Response Records on Facebook
Jen and Stew's Website

The Winebox Inquiry - The Winebox Inquiry

I'm guessing that most of you aren't familiar with The Winebox Inquiry, and that is understandable.  Apparently it is the solo project of William Daymond, the drummer for Wellington, New Zealand band Terror of the Deep.  But if you are a jangle pop fan, you are going to want this seven-song album and pray for more.  Be forewarned, it will set you back 'name your price', but it will be well worth it.  You'll hear a bit of California, a bit of UK in the '60s, and a bit of '80s Dunedin.  Sample below, and then get on it.







Bandcamp

REVIEW: The Popguns - Pop Fiction

In my opinion, Brighton's beloved The Popguns were at the head of the class for guitar pop in the late '80s and '90s.  The intertwined guitars were loud, but not abrasive, and as regular readers here know, if I compare another female vocalist to Wendy (Morgan) Pickles, I am giving her one of my higher compliments.  As a fan, you tend to regard such a band as an old friend, but frozen in time.  You visit them from time to time, fall in love with the music all over again and bask in the memories of time and place.  If the band reunites years later, you feel joy about the possibilities of new music, but trepidation that the magic may be gone, abilities and inspiration eroded, and motivations compromised.  Those worries are understandable, and all too often fulfilled.  Happily, however, they do not apply to The Popguns, or their stellar new album for Matinee Recordings, Pop Fiction.  The very evident genius of this group is that they know what they do very well, and they keep doing it better.  There are new songs and, years down the road, new perspectives.  But when you have a vocalist like Wendy, excellent guitarists and top flight songwriting, the strategy cannot be questioned.  And stitching it together is the confidence and sincerity of the performances.

The album opens with strength -- the ringing guitars and floating vocals of "City Lights" evoking an the end of the day and the promise of the evening.  The pace picks up with the appealingly chugging "If You Ever Change Your Mind", telling a story of almost-not-quite-maybe-never mind love (I think most of us can relate to that).  Track three is the buoyant lover's plea, "Lovejunky", which we reviewed when it was released earlier this year as a single (review here).  Next is "Still Waiting for the Winter", a thoroughly captivating addendum to their long ago hit "Waiting for the Winter".  Wendy sings "if you're still waiting for the winter, then you already missed her / And she's never coming back again / Yeah I heard that she's OK, still a world away / Were you hoping for the rain?", and then closes with "I felt the coming of the winter, my heart began to shiver / Cos we're never coming back again / We're already on our way, half a world away / never coming back again".  It is one of my favorite songs on the album.

"Alpha Romeo" is a melodic and bittersweet cautionary tale of fame and life on the road, apparently inspired by American musician Chet Baker.  "Out of Sight" and "Not Your Night Tonight" dial it down to contemplate love and relationships after the lustful teens and 20s.  In the former the narrator muses about whether her long distance lover thinks of her when they are apart.  In the latter, she advises a hopeful suitor that she isn't interested.  The pace picks up again for two songs that also seem paired.  In "Leaning on the Backline" Wendy takes a wistful look back at old times and past friendship.  In "Something Going On, over buzzing guitars, the narrator expresses irritation with an long ago acquaintance who seems to want something in which she has no interest.  Fittingly, the closing track, "I'll See You Later", tells of a woman who calls time on a relationship as she looks forward to the possibilities of the future; meanwhile, the band rocks out.

Pop Fiction finds The Popguns supremely accomplished, fully inspired and on top of their game.  The album is available in CD and digital formats from the ever tasteful Matinee Recordings.  If you want to stream it before you buy it, hit the band's Bandcamp link below.









The Popguns are Wendy Pickles, Simon Pickles, Greg Dixon, Pat Walkington, Tony Bryant, and Kate Mander.

Facebook
Website
Bandcamp
Twitter
Matinee Recordings page for Pop Fiction

Dirt Dress - Revelations EP

The Revelations EP consists of four tracks of upbeat, forward-pushing post punk from Los Angeles' Dirt Dress.  The guitar, bass and drums are fleshed out with synths, and the harder edged approach of prior efforts now has a bit more pop and gloss.  All four songs are very good, but the centerpiece is the title track.   "Revelations" is a bubbling, earworm of a pop rock song that digs into your brain and won't let go.  Stream the Soundcloud link for the track below or watch the video.  If you like it, stream the EP a bit further down the post.





Stream the full EP here --

Dirt Dress are Noah (guitar/vocals), Jose (bass), Sasami Ashworth (guitar/synth), and Tabor Allen (drums).

Website
Facebook
Soundcloud
Twitter
Future Gods

Holiday Joy from Odd Box Records

The holiday season has just begun and perhaps you already are feeling financially trashed.  Odd Box Records is here to cheer you up.  They have prepared Odd Box 2014, a ten-track album compiled from their releases during the year.  For a limited time, the record is available for 'name your price' download, so it could be one of the better deals you'll see for a while.

The songs are from groups such as The Wolfhounds, The Hundredth Anniversary, Tyrannosaurus Dead, Ace Bushy Striptease, and Anguish Sandwich, and the general descriptors would be noise pop, garage, and lo-fi.  The songs are energetic, swaggering and rocking.  You'll find some new bands to like, and if you love any of them you can delve into the Odd Box Records site and do some personal shopping.


Bandcamp for Album
Odd Box Records
Facebook
Twitter

Astronauts - Four Songs

When you read in a label's late-in-the-year press offering that one of their artists has followed up a release of a few months ago with a four song EP comprised of songs that didn't fit on the album but were 'just as good' as the songs included, human nature invokes a certain skepticism.  It is the same defense mechanism that gives you a warning flash when the salesman tells you that the brown sharkskin sports coat looks like it was made specifically for you, and would look great with the 'never go out of style' square toed dress shoes on the nearby rack.  The thing of it is, sometimes those kinds of proclamations are correct (not about the square toed dress shoes, however, just toss them -- please).  You see, the new Four Songs EP from Astronauts -- the folk, indie and electro-pop project of Londoner Dan Carney -- really yields no ground to the excellent Hollow Ponds (our review here).

Carney's songs are soundly structured and affectingly melodic.  But for me, their most striking attribute is their perfect balance.  He infuses his works with the exactly correct measure of airiness, weight, space and layers of sound.  The record's opening track, "Only Son" is one of my favorites.  Carney sets the stage with a droning but brightly colored riff, with his vocals low in the mix.  I can't really explain why, but the song strikes me as euphoric, and I never fail to hit the replay button a few times.  The following "Lion Tamer" begins with darker tones and a more experimental pop arrangement.  The delicate vocals and harmonic backing vocals float over the skittering beats, suggesting an inexpressible darkness and anxiety.  "Think On" has rightly been compared to the work of Elliott Smith and Nick Drake.  On an EP of well constructed songs, this one may be the centerpiece of the songwriter's art.  The closing "Death from the Stars" is an instrumental dream pop song that deserves to find a cinematic scene worthy of its contribution to the soundtrack.

Four Songs EP is available now as a digital download from Lo Recordings and various digital retailers.





Facebook
Twitter
Lo Recordings