HALF-WITTED OPINIONS AND FOREGONE CONCLUSIONS
Chip Taylor CD

Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez - The Trouble With Humans CD (Train Wreck)

Here’s a real beaut for sure, “Trouble With Humans” is the follow up to Chip & Carrie’s debut, “Let’s Leave This Town” from 2002, not bad output already for the pair who only hooked up two years ago. Chip Taylor of course is no rookie, he is the man responsible for writing “Angel Of The Morning” & “Wild Thing” amongst many others and is the caliber of singer/songwriter you could mention along side greats such as Guy Clark, Lucinda Williams, Townes Van Zandt, John Prine etc… (some of whom he references on the opening track). He took hiatus from music for many years but is back in amazing form, writing purely magical, country-folk songs, complimented perfectly by the talented young fiddle player and vocalist Carrie Rodriguez. Solid record thru and thru pain and simple. Make sure you hang in there at the end too as there is a great hidden track that speaks of the sickness and sadness that is the “entertainment industry”: “…find me a killer, get me a contract, shoot out that TV set/Radio”. Yes indeed, a real subtle beaut.

Black-Eyed Snakes Rise Up CD (Chairkickers)

This is the second full length recording for this Blues-punk styled band from Duluth, Minnesota, from the same neighbourhood in fact, that Bob Dylan grew up. No obvious influence here however, just a healthy dose of wallopin’, crunchy-ass blues sounds with plenty of great rhythm, repetition and punk rock energy. Nice aggressive approach with distorted vocal delivery, bringing to mind the great sounds of ILCK, Horrors and Federation X. Pounding version of “Bo Diddley” on this sucker as well. A visit to our burb would be a worthwhile endeavour, whatcha think guys?

Black Eyed Snakes
Diplomats..

The Diplomats Of Solid Sound - Let’s Cool One CD (Estrus)

Killer instrumental Soul from this Iowa City band born out of the ashes of garage rockers, The Bent Scepters, these guys have been kickin’ it for about 5 years already. Plump with great organ-driven funkiness, using all the finest keys (Hammond, Wurlitzer, Rhodes, Farfisa) and MG’s, Meters and Blue Note Jazz style grooves, this one smolders from entrance to exit, your boogie on overdrive the whole while. Great version of the Sly Stone classic “You Can Make It If You Try”. Shake one out of the tree today.

Jay Clark & The Jones Grenville County Blues CD (Sunnyside)

Jay Clark & The Jones are the classic country rock band. If that scares you then you are too easily scared. See, you COULD toss around the “alt. Country” thing to differentiate them from CMT or slick Nashville styled dreck, but facts are, this is a well educated band of sharply talented T.O. musicians who appreciate good music in any form. They’ve been banging around familiar Toronto venues for a couple of years now and are well in touch with their “roots”. This is no Whiskeytown knock off, albeit they might enjoy Mr. Adams, their tastes surely include Misters Parsons, Farrar, Sahm, Westerberg, Kristofferson, Chilton, Alvin, Cash etc…, point is they have great depth. And it is well evidenced on their “Grenville County Blues” CD. This recording is a true gem, lush with all the acoustic, electric, slide & pedal one needs to create a rich, full-bodied affair, complete with harmonic and melodic elements, from start to finish. Not to mention thoughtful and compelling vocals & lyrics, Jay Clark Reid emotes great passion. With guest appearances by Bob Egan & James Gray (Blue Rodeo) to boot, this record is a necessity for anyone that hates to miss out a great, up and coming thing. See ‘em live with Pearlene Oct. 30th at the Dominion.

Jay Clark
Moanin

Mr. Airplane Man - Moanin’ LP/CD (SFTRI)

A great follow-up to their fine first LP “Red Lite”, this dynamic duo of Margaret Garratt (guitar, vocals) and Tara McManus (drums, b-vox) fill it out even more than the last with their killer raw, stripped-down back-porch garage punky blues sounds with a great historical comprehension of the delta region. Actually hailing from Boston however, they have laid down twelve more choice numbers @ Ghetto Recorders and mixed in Memphis @ Easley Studios with Doug Easley himself & Greg Cartwright (Oblivians, Reigning Sound) at the helm. Included are some suitable covers of Howlin Wolf (they’re named after one of his songs), Fred McDowell and others. There is a perfect mix of roughness and sweetness in their craft making for an enjoyable and essential listen.

The Yum Yums - Blame It On The Boogie LP/CD Screaming Apple

Whoa! Here’s a quartet from Norway that have clearly perfected the late 70’s power pop thing and are bangin it out fresh and au courant for today. Led by Morten Henriksen, ex of the Vikings, they now with two full lengths, a ten incher and aheap of sevens over 8 plus years. This latest on Screaming Apple is as sweet as they come hands down. Although clearly influenced by a variety of legends (Real Kids, Paul Collins, Barracudas, Beach Boys even), they could host a how-to clinic on writing and playin’ the classic catchy, fun rock ‘n’ roll. We’re talking 14 deadly tunes all with good fat production value and sure-fire hits for boppin’ ‘round the house. Swap in your Ramones wax or whatever you gotta do to get in on some of this action.

The Yum Yums!

Bitchin Camaros S/T CD (independent)

From the ashes of Ottawa bands Keener & King Kung come this fireball of fury known in “these parts” as The Bitchin Camaros. This insane four-piece of Jean Belanger & Shawn Hill (guitars), Adam Fraser (drums), and Johnny Nash (bass) put ‘er to the floor and don’t let up, crankin out the pure, nitro-burnin’, high-energy, aggro punk rock ‘n’ roll with a ferocity that is world class. Stands up easily to any Zeke, Puffball, Demons, Cellophane Suckers or Hookers records you have in your collection. These guys ignite and wail all the way thru ten smoldering tracks making a very fine debut, that was overseen by Dave Draves @ Little Bullhorn where the roof must’ve almost caved in. Turn it up and crawl away from this wreckage if you dare. Known in “those parts” soon too.

The Sign-Offs - S/T CD (Disaster)

Pure kick-ass fire power Punk Rock 'n' Roll from these four crazed upstarts from California, on Dwayne Peters' Disaster record label that shouldn't go ignored although perhaps currently overshadowed by other recent Disaster releases. This one's brimmin' with all the right tools to be a favorite this year. Lots of great 70's punk influence but with the same sort of fury of a Gluecifer or Turpentines effort. Eleven songs with catchiness and raunch alike, that'll keep you goin' 'til dawn. Monsterous!


Pine Valley Cosmonauts

Pine Valley Cosmonauts - The Executioner's Last Songs Vol. 1 CD (Bloodshot)

Langford and the gang strike again with a benefit recording for the Illinois Death Penalty Moratorium Project; this baby's full of well chosen (mostly) covers that'll tickle your country mile. Lots of guest vocalists that make them successful once again, with the likes of Janet Bean, Steve Earle (doin' "Tom Dooley"), Neko Case, Brett Sparks & Johnny Dowd to name a few, all puttin' in stellar performances. There's even a great cover of the Adverts "Gary Gilmore's Eyes". Nice. O Brother go get this or do not pass go…. Also available: quasi-political beat-poet psycho Neal Pollack - Anthology Of American Literature: spoken word w/ solid musical back-up by the Cosmonauts…

Hanson Brothers - My Game... Mint

Just when you probably thought it was safe to assume the lads couldn't milk the one-teat cow any further, The Hansons come back to prove you wrong with 15 more Ramoaners that, depending on how much you've previously heard will delight or diffuse you. No escaping, regardless, the fact that this Victoria, BC band featuring NoMeansNo-ites know how to ride this pony better'n anyone else. Great cover of "Get It Right Back" by one-hit cheesies Cleopatra. Go figure. Anyways this could be the best Hansons record yet. Go se 'em live they're mental.

Nekromantix - Return Of The Loving Dead.... Hellcat

Pack up your diggin' tools my pale faced revelers, it's time for another romp thru the boneyard with Copenhagen's finest psychobilly trio the Nekromantix. These guys have been around since 1989 and are working on a half dozen albums which now includes 13 more scorchers for their debut with Tim Armstrong's Hellcat record label. Their tunes are deft and edgy, chuggin' along with good kick ass pace, great guitar presence and well hammered, "coffin style" upright bass. These guys are sure to fare well on these shores as well. Get unearthed now.

The Come Ons

The Come Ons - "Hip Check!" LP/CD SFTRI

Here they COME, with their highly anticipated second album for Sympathy, another smoldering slab of fine Detroit groove with even more danceable funkiness than the previous. Stripped down to a three piece this time 'round, vocalist/bassist/organist Iovan, guitarist Johnson and drummer Pantano (Dirtbombs), remain employing Jim Diamond and the Ghetto Recorders facility once again with a smattering of guests on vocals, keys and even some brass with purely winning results. Try this on, it is a "Mesmerizer".


Godless Wicked Creeps - "Smile" Lucky Seven

Fourteen tracks of rip roarin' Psychobilly soaked Rock 'n' Roll from these four liquored up Danish madmen covered in tattoos. Their lyrics are quite thoroughly and decidedly dumb-ass, (self proclaimed "creeps" of the "godless" sort, you know) but their tunes pack a lot of twangy and rumblin' wallop that will set your "pomp" on fire. Akin to California brethren Tiger Army but with seemingly more crunch. Apply the "wicked" to the music and start your engines.

Godless Wicked Creeps

Los Plantronics - "Columbian Necktie" ... Big Dipper

Here's a foursome (from Norway no less) with a penchant for Tex-Mexicana who do actually look like crazed Tijuana hoodlums and they they nail down a bunch of great reference points and master some choice covers. Try out some wicked, twangy surf versions of tunes such as "Shape Of Things To Come" (Yardbirds), "I Need You" (Kinks), "Goldfinger", "Ring Of Fire", "Hang 'Em High" and a bunch of like-minded originals all with a good dose of punk rock edge. That's not all, they do up "Let's Lynch The Landlord" in fine fashion as well. Guess they aren't Norway's "Kings of Spaghetti Surf Punk-A-Billy" for nothin'. Get your maracas off.

The Stuck-Ups - "S/T" SFTRI

Here's one that will appeal to that real punk rocker inside you. Fourteen short blasts of good ol' trashy, in your face punk rock done by three young gals from Seattle. It only clocks in at around 20 minutes long, but there's plenty of spirit and energy jammed in here that this can hardly matter (lots of great records are even shorter). You can't go wrong with numbers like "Baby's Got A Hard-on", You Treat Me Like A Spastic" and "Free The Prostitutes" Done in Riot Grrrl meets Rip Off records style, seemingly with a nod to X-Ray Spex, early Buzzcocks, Action Pact and other U.K. alumni. All proceedings overseen by Wild Billy Childish at Egg Studios. Don't blink 'cause you don't want to miss it.

Beehive & the Barracudas - "Featuring The Insects"... Flapping Jet

Monsterous mutations of supreme order found here mofos. Let's see if we can decipher some vague info: Something of a supergroup from the San Diego area featuring members of Red Aunts (Kerry Davis), RFTC (?) and Tanner with scores of adventurous guests and additional help including the "insects" although unclear if they are figment or not. In any case, these recordings come from a variety of different sessions which beautifully fuse various styles such as Punk, No Wave, Avant Jazz, Soul and Garage with great artistic vision that is beyond description really, as are all musics found truly unique. Not a follower here, these guys attempt to lead, bless their brave souls so few. No comparisons here, but just for fun; smile if you like Contortions, Club Foot Orchestra, Make-Up, Arkansaw Man, Fatal Flying Guilloteens, Beefheart

Beehive

Federation X - "American Folk Horror" ... Estrus

Wow! Could a band this good, hailing from the same town (Bellingham, WA) as Estrus headquarters actually go ignored by label chief Dave Crider? This record could have easily been on Smallstone or the Music Cartel or Am Rep in its heyday, but I think not. Hence the debut release from this fine trio called Federation X. This album is a relentless pummeling blast of groove-oriented mayhem, complete with great hooks and choppin’, uncompromising rock & blues in a Nomeansno meets (coherent) Melvins meets Nine Pound Hammer meets a shade of Confederacy of Scum perhaps. Rollin’ down your laneway and flattening everything you thought dear. This will be colossal to see live, check ‘em while they tour near you.


Red Planet - “Let’s Degenerate” Gearhead

This quartet from San Francisco are back with a second album ( the follow-up to Revolution 33) on Gearhead chockfull of wreck-room, party-time hits of full blown catchiness, neatly picking up where they left off last. With Kurt Bloch (of Fastbacks fame) at the controls this time around and armed with a Moog keyboard that resounds throughout, they offer us eleven more gems, again with much pop punk appeal. However, with no bones about it, they celebrate and borrow from some of their (glam) rock heroes such as Van Halen, Joan Jett, Motley Crue ( I also detect some Sweet, Cheap Trick and XTC) with surprisingly great results. And then there’s that New Traditionalists era Devo thing hittin’ me with that Moog action. You could probably say it’s overkill, but “degenerate” excessive fun is what this album is all about. Lend it an impartial ear, you’ll love it.

The Von Bondies - "Lack Of Communication" SFTRI

The Detroit underground music scene’s got it goin’ on right now, for sure. Stripes and Cobras and Come Ons etc… then along come two guys and two gals calling themselves the Von Bondies and they have emerged with a killer full length offering for Sympathy that rocks out in a ferocious yet groovy blues style. Suitably produced by Jack White (yes, the White Stripes), with great songwriting prowess and lots of dynamics, this album chugs along with great rock & soul that few have truly mastered. This record is lush with rock texture, sweet acoustic smarts and heart wrenching vocals. It also resonates with plenty of fine roots rock reference points, and perhaps some early Gun Club and Starlite Desperation for lack of anything concrete to pin on ‘em. Get some Motor City action today. OK.


Freak Mountain Ramblers - “Looks Perfectly Legal To Me” ...You Got Soul

Load up the wagons, here comes a fine traveling album from a new (to me) six piece (maybe seven?) band from Portland, OR called the Freak Mountain Ramblers. These fellas deliver a nice mix of Country, Honky Tonk and Bluegrass styles with all the right quirks with a lean on some C.C.R. feel and Burrito Brother flare. Starting out with a rollickin’ cover of Billy Joe Shaver’s “Last Train To Georgia” and plowin’ thru various great choices such as a soulful version of “It Won’t Hurt” by Dwight Yoakam, traditional numbers “Little Maggie” and “Childe Ballad #207” as well as a sweet rendering of Jimmy Cliff’s “Sitting In Limbo” that would likely impress “Wacos” at Bloodshot HQ. And the guitarist/vocalist Jimmy Boyer’s originals are quite notable as well, strikes me that they shouldn’t be shy to crank out more tunes of their own. These guys know their way around the goods and I detect work of experience in the madness. Put ‘er on and head for your favorite rural route.

Detroit Cobras - "Life, Love And Leaving" SFTRI

Well it was a long but worthwhile wait ‘cause man these guys have done it again. A triumphant return, as the Detroit Cobras come along with 14 more choice covers of vintage R&B and soul done in their own patented swaggering style that shows plenty of respect for the genres, all the while incorporating the right kind of contemporary feel and grinding along with just the right amount of laid back punk rock attitude. These guys (well, 3guys & 2 gals) must be harboring a killer record collection as there is much savvy in their presentation and delivery and Rachael Nagy lends the perfect voice. Easily as good or better than the previous (Mink, Rat Or Rabbit, a huge seller @ Birdman) and if that’s any indication they should (and are) flying out the door. Check ‘em out live this summer.


The Now Time Delegation - "Watch For Today" ... In The Red

Now here's a nice surprise. I didn't even know about this project until copies had literally landed at the store. Looks good on paper? well it's a monster. Consisting of Tim Kerr, guitarist extraordinaire most recently with the Lord High Fixers and Monkeywrench, Lisa Kekaula, the knockout vocalist for the Bellrays and Speedball Baby's enigmatic main man Matt Verta Ray amongst others, all working out to a winning combination. This 12 song disc exudes all good things SOUL, R&B, BLUES, R&R. Plenty of respect for the traditions while exploding full on in a "Now Time" kinda way. Several great cover tunes chosen here including: Raise Your Hand (Eddie Floyd), Keep On Pushing (Curtis Mayfield/Impressions), Nothing But A Heartache (Flirtations), Bert's Apple Crumble (the Quik), and a heart-stopping version of Handle Me With Care (King Floyd) as well as some great originals that don't miss a beat. Who could pass this up? NOW's the TIME Brothers and Sisters.

Knoxville Girls - "In A Paper Suit" ... In The Red

Just time for spring? another raw country blues rocker from the fast becoming legend Knoxville Girls. Follow-up to the brilliant self- titled and live In The Woodshed LPs, this one continues on with the same sweet and low down dirty tradition drawing from the band's intense understanding of all good american roots music. Spaghetti western soundtrack crossing with cowboy country and hillbilly elements, surf and rockabilly styles colliding with delta blues and the southern soul triangle. This gem aims to please those with a taste for the traditional and unconventional alike. All managed very competently while still jagged and loose and still without the use of bass guitar. An excellent foreshadow of what is sure to be a sensual live show down at the Dominion, May 14th. Besides how can you go wrong with a collective alumni that includes members of such bands as Sonic Youth, Little Porkchop, Chrome Cranks, Cramps, Gun Club, Bewitched, Pussy Galore, the Bad Seeds, Honeymoon Killers, and Boss Hog? YOU CAN'T. Bring us your paper suits.


The Immortal Lee County Killers - "The Essential Fucked Up Blues" Estrus

We've been blessed with a number of fine duos over recent years cranking out a variety of blues stylings such as the White Stripes, Soledad Brothers, Doo Rag, Lo- Hi to name a few. Along comes a new one from Alabama with their debut, the Immortal Lee County Killers. Consisting of Chet Weise of the Quadrajets and Boss Sherrard of Sphramm they live up to the task, pounding out the raw energy and proving again that sometimes all you need is guitar & drums (and maybe a six pack or two) to make some ferocious punk blues. These nine tracks are fired up and ready to go and will knock you out of your complacent stupor. Check out the seven incher too, the b-side includes a cover of Pussy Galore's "Revolution Summer". Killer.

Red Planet - "Revolution 33" Gearhead

Hot damn! Can you believe these guys are from San Fran? Well in this day and age anything can be form anywhere and shows how little borders mean in the world of good underground rock. You can't help but notice a certain British feel to this one, in the style of great early pop punkers The Real Kids, The Buzzcocks, The Boys etc.. and trust me this album is as sweet as they come. Loaded with great tunes most of which speak of playing records and listening to radio. The respected magazine cum full fledged record label Gearhead has unearthed a gem and this in a fair world would end up larger than the Verve or Oasis and any other such overwrought nonsense. Toss out the spoiled and scoop up the treasure your aural receptors will thank you. Also available, a fine 7" single called "Let's Get Ripped" bw/ a cover of The DK's "Too Drunk To Fuck". Fantastic.

The Hives - "Veni Vidi Vicious" Burning Heart

Another in the long line of fine rippin’ Scandinavian rock bands, these dudes from Sweden blow the roof off the joint on their second full length release. Fully loaded with a duel guitar attack and a killer sensibility and penchant for catchy kickin’ rock & roll tunes, some of which have an almost anthemic quality. Included amongst these is an interesting cover of the Jerry Butler/Curtis Mayfield penned song “Find Another Girl”. Climb aboard for this ride, you’ll find yourself back for more every time, on what has proved to be one of the finer punk rock & roll albums of 2000. Vicious indeed. Look for new stuff and re-issued back catalogue from them soon.

AEROBITCH An Urge To Play Loud 10" ...People Like You...

Here's a kick-ass new 7 song 10" from one of Spain's finest, the punk rock 'n' roll quartet Aerobitch. They already sport a fairly large catalogue of stuff, a previous 10', a full length album, a split 10" w/ another Spanish band and a batch of 7"s. This new one picks up with fine fury, crankin' out five hard hitting originals (a total stand-out is the catchy "You Lie") and two excellent covers; "Know Your Product" by the legendary Australian band the Saints and "High Voltage" by AC/DC that are sung with great gravelly lung belting action by a gal named Laura. Fans of the Pleasure Fuckers, T.V. Killers, Sugar Shack and the Creamers take note. These "bitches" in heat. Get 'em.

THE WHITE STRIPES De Stijl Lp SFTRI

Can the sophomoric release be better than the brilliant self-titled debut? Maybe, maybe not, I've heard it four times already though, and it is at least just as good. Thirteen more gems from Detroit's most clever brother and sister, guitar and drums duo, Jack and Meg White. Drawing again from the tradition of great stripped down, back porch, country-fried blues yet still not without its skewed urban, Motor City flavour. Full up with ample tone and texture, these songs (some of which are accompanied by violin and bass are lamentful and angst-ridden delivered from a clenched soul. Appropriately included are two choice covers, Son House's "Death Letter" and "Your Southern Can Is Mine" by Blind Willie McTell. It doesn't get any tastier than this people.

ROBERT BELFOUR What's Wrong With You Lp Fat Possum

In light of how lame some regional blues festivals can be, (we won't mention any names) I figure it's a good time to point out the lack of interest in some of the latest Fat Possum releases (great new T-Model Ford Lp too) in particular "What's Wrong With You" by Robert Belfour. These are the real outback country style blues that are actually worth paying attention to. Belfour is a very accomplished, no bullshit guitar player, as strong as any of his contemporaries from the Mississippi region, and at sixty is still going strong. Nine beautiful porch stompers, (amongst them are two songs penned by the late great Junior Kimbrough) all of which have an authenticity that could have you thinkin' it might actually have been recorded some sixty years ago. Easily the best blues album out this year. So then, What The Hell IS Wrong With You anyway?

The Von Zippers / Les Secretaires Volantes Dead End Canada 7"  Mag Wheel

Just in time for summer, A brand new split 7" touted as a soundtrack to a film called Dead End Canada. Four hot tunes by two of Canada's finest kept secrets. Les Secretaires Volantes have been crankin' out the good stuff in the Montreal region for some time now and are a total pleasure to see live. Their energy is sufficiently captured here and will please long time fans and newcomers alike. And, perhaps not quite as unknown due to their Estrus records affiliation, but far from commercial or any such shite are Calgary's The Von Zippers who competently manipulate the Pagans' Dead End America (traditional?!?) to suit the theme, and a new one called Screwdriver High that'll Kick you upside the noodle. All in all an excellent endeavor. Buy now while supplies last and there's still some summer left in your soul.

Mensen / The Meat Joy 7" Fandango

Here's a couple of scorchers from two "chick rock" bands and delightfully the emphasis is on "rock". First from the home of the Fandango record lauching pad, the U.S. capital, are The Meat Joy. Catch(Fire) is a solid rocker akin to early Patti Smith and with some Penetration and X-Ray Spex flavour. Will be waitin' for more from this combo. Also a fine Scandinavian band w/ a full length and double 7" under their belts, Mensen crank out the sassy "Mean Christine" an exclusive track to this single and as gutsy and catchy as the rest. Limited to 500 so, crack out some green and fork it over.

BLACK KALI MA - You Ride The Pony (I'll Be The Bunny) Lp  Alternative Tentacles

Holy Mother... It's been a while since I've seen Gary Floyd's name pop up on anything. The notorious and well -traveled frontman for legendary Texas band The Dicks, and singer for Sister Double Happiness is lending his voice to perhaps the most compelling of all projects yet. ( I do admit however to not hearing much of his solo stuff, which is mostly German import and such). Accompanied by duel guitar attack and solid low end from ex-Rhythm Pig Ed Ivey, These fellas power through ten profound, hard drivin' numbers with depth that will stand up for years to come. Solid bluesy r'n'r with a southern fried flavour complete with Floyd's trademark bellow and words to the wise that is sure to send you searchin' for SDH deletes.

ASS PONYS - Some Stupid With A Flare Gun Cd  Checkered Past

Welcome to "some stupid with a flare gun" (an excellent title to be sure) a fifth album for this Cincinnati, Ohio quartet, the first in about four years and perhaps the best one yet. Wisely away from major label indifference, this one's a real heartwarmer, ornate with off-kilter melody, musically cacophonous, celebratory and subtle, sometimes in the same breath. Twelve robust numbers bound together by Chuck Cleaver's distinct falsetto that delivers enigmatic tales of longing, sorrow, heartbreak, horror, disgust and even anger, in true contemporary folk blues or hurtin' C&W fashion but well removed from any typical alt. country motions. Ranges, if you will, between the rootsier side of R.E.M. to something along the lines of the more elaborate sound of Dead Moon, and should have plenty of appeal to fans of everything from Built To Spill to Tom Petty. Fire off a round into the dusk dummy or just get with it. Absolutely essential.

THE (International) NOISE CONSPIRACY - Survival Sickness Cd & Lp  Burning Heart/Epitaph

So far this year has been blessed with great new discoveries. Enter the Black Mask collective from Sweden and their musical outlet, The (International) Noise Conspiracy. Formed in the fall of '98,they already have a singles collection under their belts. (First the "Noise") part as in powerful and uplifting not irritating), fronted by Dennis Lyxzen of the Refused, the new Survival Sickness will stagger you with some punk rock & soul akin to the Small Faces meets the Murder City Devils or something, but grasping, as they are hard to pin. No surprise however, (...the second part, "Conspiracy" as in enlightened) 'cause these folks are fully in defiance of mediocrity and convention, flying a radical banner chalk full of thoughtful politics and enticing ideas, putting the skewer thru the cold heart of popular culture. Music may be "limiting" but the INC cross that bridge very well. If you don't buy music then think of it as medicine, the prescription for your "existing" woes. DO I have to spell it out? P.S. Heads up Chumbawambas.

CALEXICO - Blacklight Sketches (remixes) 12"ep  Quarterstick

To establish, loosely described Calexico are multi-instrumentalist Joey Burns and percussionist John Convertino with a multitude of guest musicians. They released a dynamite album in '88 called "The Black Light" that is rich with Spanish, Folk and Tex-Mex flavors. Now to speculate, "Blacklight Sketches appears to be two "remix" (reprise?) tracks drawn from the album's material and two new ones that seem to be performed by players previously unrelated to the band, all of which give them a more stripped down, minimal post rock type feeling not with out it's own beauty. I might be missing the boat on what exactly is going on here, (it's kinda like pulling teeth deciphering, what with vague liner notes and no bio) but one thing is for certain, if you enjoyed the LP as much as I, you may or may not need this too.

SMOGTOWN - Fuhrers Of The New Wave Lp  DISASTER

Vocalist for the U.S. Bombs, Duane Peters' new label is off to a fine start. Following a 40 some song comp. "Old Scars and Upstarts", he's got a couple of full lengths out by the Pushers and the subject in question, the excellent Smogtown Lp. This record is pure punk rock joy and glory as this new band cranks out thirteen catchy tunes in the spirit of early Adolescents and Descendents with perhaps some Buzzcocks and S.L.F. thrown in. It just keeps getting better with each listen. This should be large.

THE DELTA 72 - 000 Lp & Cd  TOUCH & GO

These lively dudes crank out another soul-soaked document in their Growing repertoire of funkiness. Definitely leaning even more in the direction of sounds that wouldn't sound alien on Westbound Records back in the day w/ maybe some good period Tower Of Power thrown in. Appropriately recorded in Philly at Tongue & Groove, there's no mistakin' that this band HAS the groove. Lots of killer Hammond organ tastefully pounded throughout. Guest guitar on "3 Day Packet Plan" by Royal Trux's Neil (Haggerty). A record that almost does justice to their frantic live show. Check it doc.

THE TANTRUMS - Motels 10" & Cd-Ep  Cheetah's

Some swingin' rockabilly numbers from this new California quartet, one of which is a rousing version of Charlie Rich's "Midnite Blues" that many have perhaps been familiarized due to The Detroit Cobras' version on the popular Mink, Rat or Rabbit album. The other 5 tunes here are originals however, delivered with no uncertainty, competent and infectious riffs overseen by the sweet pipes of vocalist Devil Doll (definately not her real name). Motels is definitely a worthy rest stop on the road to a smooth collection Jack.

THE PEEPSHOWS - Mondo Deluxe Lp & Cd  Burning Heart

I held out, and it took awhile to get this on wax, but it was more than worth the wait. As you probably know by now Scandinavia is ripe w/ a load of righteous punk rock & roll bands as of late, Gluecifer, Turpentines, Hellacopters, Wonderfools...the list is astounding. It is definitely time to add The Peepshows to that list, in spades. Very powerful, hard hitting and melodic follow up to the "Right About Now" 10". These guys aren't really braggin' when they say they are all that. Don't miss the boat, climb in for a good earcleanin' on what is looking already to be one of the finest rock recordings of the year. "No Excuses" indeed.

V/A - Poor Little Knitter On The Road  BLOODSHOT

Tribute records are awkward things at best. Generally they require a subject that recorded and released a LARGE body of ORIGINAL material. They also involve the assembling of bands that are either sympathetic contemporaries or enthusiastic upstarts honored to pay homage to revered influence. with that established, nobody can accuse BLOODSHOT of being conventionalists because Poor Little Knitter... is unique indeed. For the unfamiliar, the Knitters were(are?) a band primarily consisting of three members of the now legendary L.A. band X, Dave Alvin from the Blasters & Johny Ray Bartel who released one record half of which are covers(a personal fave from '85). Still, it fails the first test but on the latter it comes thru in spades cause there is plenty of excellent rendering by some of the finer "alt. country" bands of the time, be they covers, covers of covers or otherwise. There are potential arguments for and against this project but the bottom line is this: This is a great compilation recalling a vital landmark record and reminding us there are still many bands around who prove that "country music doesn't have to suck". Just buy it 'billy.

TIGER ARMY - S/T Cd & Lp  HELLCAT

There isn't exactly a whole heap of American psychobilly kicking around. The Hellbillys maybe, and the Red Planet Rockets come to mind but generally England is where this genre reigns supreme. Now following a 3 song single that I've never even seen, Hellcat has released a full length by California's Tiger Army. This East Bay trio comprise of Nick 13 on guitar and vocals, (stand-up) bassist Rob Peltier of the Quakes and AFI drummer Adam Carson. Their songs have plenty of jump and are played with the kind of ferocious intensity necessary to make kick ass psychobilly that stands up to some of the greats, such as the Meteors, GuanaBats and Demented Are Go! There is also a sweet spaghetti country style number called "Outlaw Heart" that'll make you swoon. A truly solid effort here, having me wish for a live dose in our region soon. Helluva nice surprise "cats.

MAKE UP - SAVE YOURSELF CD & LP  K

Make Up Makes Good Again!
On this, their sixth full length album thatfollows the 23 track singles collection I Want Some released earlier this year, the Washington D.C. based band deliver some more fine crafted super funky psychedelic soul without forgetting a healthy dose of 60's style garage punk. Nine sassy tunes here including a 8 minute interpretation of that concludes this record and will have your head spinning and wishing there were more. Definitely a "big fish in a small pond" which is unfortunate, however this wild cherry could cure alot of what ails you and find some room in the sea to boot. If you're spinnin' anything from The White Stripes, Royal Trux, Delta 72 or Dub Narcotic or just need a twist on your old R&B singles you should drop a needle on this too.

DUB NARCOTIC SOUND SYSTEM meets the JON SPENCER BLUES EXPLOSION - SIDEWAYS SOUL  K

Alot of different elements meld together making the forty minutes of Sideways Soul a sure hit with fans of both parties concerned. The backbone is some hearty jagged urban funk in true Blues Explosion fashion with a nod perhaps to mid 80's N.Y.C. groups ESG and Bush Tetras, while some tracks you might detect Bauer's Twenty Miles influence. The rest is "Calvinism": trademark droning vocals with familiar lyrical themes that would aggravate and alienate the whole family. Some selections complete with Calvin's Augustus Pablo impression on melodica. Fine accompaniment to Xtra-Acme.

JUNIOR KIMBROUGH - Meet Me In The City Lp & Cd  Fat Possum

Some sweet home recordings of the late great Junior Kimbrough dating back to the early 90's as well as some smokers from a blues festival he played in 1993. Mr. Kimbrough was responsible for some of the best "real sounding" porch stompin' delta blues stylings to ever be waxed for Fat Possum or otherwise in the modern recording era. Meet Me In The City starts out with the more reflective home recordings of Junior by himself with his guitar and ends off in live rockin' fashion with the bass & drum accompaniment of Gary Burnside and Kenny Malone. There are no attempts here at all to polish these up for uninitiated ears. Some noise reduction has been applied, but all in all these tunes remain high in fortified rawness and guitar tone richness which, I believe, the blues are all about. This adds nicely to your mixed tape with Big Bill Broonzy, Leadbelly and Blind Lemon Jefferson. A rewarding listen.

TRAILER BRIDE - Whine De Lune CD  Bloodshot

One of the finer new releases out of the recent batch from Chicago's "insurgent country" label Bloodshot records. Good hurtin' style traditional country with plenty of soul and no pretension. Principle singer/songwriter Melissa Swingle brings to mind some comparisons to the great Lucinda Williams without questioning the fact she has plenty of her own style and character to spread around. Swingle competently leads her band through eleven well played songs that are laid back but far from devoid of complicity. Nicely arranged with good measures of banjo, mandolin, lap steel, harmonica and percussions thrown in the mix that warmth to their swagger that is well suitable for chillin' with some frosties out on the porch. If you enjoy the Schramms at their sweetest and are planning on pickin' up the latest Freakwater you'd best be adding the sophomoric Whine de Lune from this Chapel Hill outfit to your list.

THE MEAT PURVEYORS - More Songs About Buildings and Cows  Bloodshot

This second release from (Texans?) the Meat Purveyors plows thru a variety of fairly potent rural sounds, ranging from bluegrass ramblers to sweet almost ballad type numbers, all the while including some interesting cover song choices by the likes of Daniel Johnston, Lou Reed and the legendary Bill Monroe amongst others. There is a certain giddy excitement lent to the proceedings, giving these fourteen songs a rich blend of sarcasm, cynicism and honest good ol' fashioned tongue- in-cheek fun. Kept sharp and lively by the competent mandolin playin' of Peter Stiles and some fine vocal exchanges, these guys and gals deliver a record that fans of the Bad Livers or the Steve Earle/Del McCoury collaboration should be eyeballin'.

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