Tommy Gurrero
Fotraque 7”
Galaxia
Not only does this man have the best style on a skateboard
known to man, he also carries that same fluid style to his
musical side as well. There are some real original beat stylings
on this single. I sense real Krush influences on this, but
what really sets it apart is the addition of some jazzy guitar
and piano parts. See what amazing things can come out of a
home studio these days. -Isacto
Cypress Hill
Skull & Bones
Columbia
These guys just keep making record after record and they all
seem to progress in certain aspects but they still maintain
a low-key profile in the hip-hop world. The Skull disk is
full dope beats that seem to blend South-East-and West style
beats all in one. With clean punch bass lines and lots of
tracks heavily layered with harps, strings, keyboards, claps
and other weird sounds, DJ Muggs will have you in that mesmerizing,
stoned state of a trance in no time that Cypress is famous
for. B-Real again handles most of the microphone duties delivering
his precise lyrical format mistaken by none, with Sen getting
his back as usual with his shit-talkin’ while bringing
the goods to the table on several tracks himself. But they
seem to have put the AK away on this one and rap mostly about
the negativity and problems that seems to plague the rap world
and music industry in general. Now the Bones disk is a not
so unexpected turn as they dedicate it entirely to the ever
so popular format of Rap-Metal. Now I’m sure this is
wearing thin on lots of people and adored by millions but
you know what, they pull it off. And how couldn’t they?
They went out and recruited Fear Factory guitars and RATM
drums so it’s definitely got the flavor but what sets
this apart from the rest of their competition is the vocals.
Actually having lyrical skills is the first thing that sets
this apart from the rest, but Cypress also lay down their
rawer stuff on this disk and don’t seem to try too hard
to come off as powerful, but succeed in doing so with their
credibility and street-wise approach. Valley of Chrome is
a sure hit with the radio and all tracks are listenable without
the cheesyness, and will find a place among rap purist and
rockers alike. Cypress still keeps being innovative and by
keeping up with the Jones’, are ensuring themselves a
place in music’s future. -Mitch Soto
Rollins Band
Get Some, Go Again
Dreamworks
It’s easy to look at the post movie star/computer salesmen
Rollins with a bit of doubt. Nonetheless, the man has achieved
a lot and has a lot of integrity in his own way. I found myself
surprisingly moved by his last spoken word CD. It’s hard
to really fault someone for wanting to earn a living, and
I think Rollins really does do it on his own terms. On Get
Some, he enlists the help of the LA trio Mother Superior,
who apparently gave him a demo tape that he was so impressed
with, that he offered to produce a demo for them. They then
went on to write some songs together and eventually recorded
this CD. It’s unclear who, if anyone’s, using who
here or if it even matters. But, if you’re looking for
some hard, guitar driven rock with intelligent lyrics in the
age of techno, hip-hop and pop punk, then this is just what
you’re looking for. Not classic, but not bad either.
-JB
The Smugglers
Rosie
Lookout
The Smugglers are hotter than a half-fucked fox in a forest
fire. Nothing fancy or new here, just the perfect amount of
tunes, a rough mix and nobody really showing off. Rock and
roll shouldn’t be so tough to play that nobody but the
most obsessive guitar wizard can cop a lick. On the other
hand, it shouldn’t be so obvious that my cat could play
it too. The Smugglers seem to have struck a balance. Rose
Melberg makes a guest appearance on, get this, a song about
her. Not only that, Rosie is the name of the song and the
album too! Must be pretty damn cool to sing on such a good
album, sound so good, and have the song be about you too.
Keep that head of yours from swelling, Ms. Melberg. But seriously,
the whole thing is a good record to put on when you have friends
over and people are drinking beer and talking loud. -Reverend
Ed
Speedy J
A Shocking Hobby
Mute
Speedy J drifts to another side of electronic music with his
latest release, A Shocking Hobby. This CD starts off very
dark, only to remain that way for its entirety. The tracks
contain machine like samples and distorted drum beats, while
keeping an ambient like feel. As the mix progresses the beats
increase, but never really go anywhere. Although this CD contains
eleven different tracks, it is hard to determine when they
start and stop. As each track builds up or progresses faster,
they never break a certain point. Just when you think the
track is going to blow up, it almost stops and returns to
a quiet, dark drop again. Unlike G-Spot, Speedy J’s first
release, you will probably never hear A Shocking Hobby at
a party or a club. This CD is more for listening to in a dark
room while on some mind altering substances, than dancing
to. A Shocking Hobby is definitely not an easy listen. -e-love
The Cure
Bloodflowers
Elektra
This is rumored to possibly be the last Cure album according
to the release information included with the CD. I’ve
always thought that the Cure’s older releases have been
far superior to their newer ones. One of my personal favorites
is Disintigration. Well, this album is supposedly a follow
up to Pornography and Disintigration, part three of a music
trilogy. Listening to the three back to back, I realized that
they really have pulled off another classic album. 20 albums
in 20 years... That’s a lot of music. This album falls
more into their mood music, and has a much less pop or rock
feel to it. If you’ve never heard the Cure, its a good
place to start; and if you have been following them for years,
it may be a strong album for them to finish with, although,
I hope we hear more from them next. -Brian Shevlin
Six By Seven
The Closer You Get
Mantra Recordings
Lately there have been many bands from the US that sound so
British that you could almost put the letters UK after their
name. Six By Seven just might be the opposite - a band from
England that sounds quite American at times but still retains
enough personality and Brit-pop tendencies to sound fresh
and exciting. Indie rock collides with Brit-pop and electronica
to create a very textured sound that takes as many cues from
Guided By Voices as it does from Bowie and even Joy Division.
There is a really nice mix of thick guitars as well as effect
washed strumming. The strength of The Closer You Get is the
variety of sounds. There’s a constant mixing and layering
of hi-fi and lo-fi alongside vocals that fluctuate between
texture and melody. After repeated listenings you will find
yourself becoming more entangled with Six By Seven. -Anthony
Pappalardo
The Nits
Seven Inches Limp
Fast, loud and fun is how I would describe the Nits. And not
because after I once saw them the only thing that was left
on the ground was cigarettes, clothes, blood, and a broken
skateboard all marinating in a pool of beer. Note: Fun Scale
10+. Note: Cleaning up after the Nits on a fun scale:-10.
(Tip: How you can tell if it was a fun show) But, because
this 7 incher is all those things = FUN. With songs titles
like Everyone Must Die, Fuck a Meter Maid and Skate To Live
these guys rock out in the vein of New Bomb Turks or The Dwarves
(oh yeah they cover Lesbian Nun). The vocals were are little
drowned out cuz of production but it makes it all the more
raw. And if that’s the only thing I can bitch about on
a punk rock album then I best shut the fuck up. Contact the
Nits at: 4632 U Street, Sacto, CA. 95817 -Mitch Soto
Groovie Ghoulies
Travels with My Amp
Lookout
A recent survey by the Smithsonian Institute for the Preservation
of Authentic Americana revealed the existence of 453,762 power
pop bands in the United States, a full 267,354 of which claim
the Ramones as a main influence. So how have the Ghoulies
been able to stand out for so long as one of the best? For
me, it’s Kepi’s quick wit and genuine niceness,
which doesn’t come across in the standard chunka-chunka
musical assault or Ramonesy songs, but in their live shows
and in their fun and whimsical lyrics. Like, there’s
the take on interracial dating where the date’s a blue-skinned
alien, and the Happy Birthday song, and the leprechaun song,
and the place where Kepi sings, “You can’t judge
a book until you get between the covers.” More bands
should be like them. -Ben Morss
Noggintoboggan
Snapcase
BettieRocket
These guys fall into the category of punk bands that wouldn’t
be punk bands if they didn’t have the Marshall stacks
and punk beats. They’re not punk slobs at all, but skilled
musicians who write old-fashioned songs played in a punk style.
And I mean this even more than I do with NOFX and Green Day
- this record is more like Britpop as played by Crimpshrine.
One song even ends with a chorus of “Love was everywhere”!
The pop sensibility here is balanced by the such things as
the amazing title of another song, You Can Call Me Schmoopy.
And there is more variety here than in your average pot o’
pop punk - Porkalator begins with what might be a take-off
on Syd Barrett-era Pink Floyd before it moves into ska and
punk bits.
-Ben Morss
Morphine
The Night
Dreamworks
The first time I put this on, it didn’t really grab me
and it was several weeks before I gave it another chance.
You need to be in the right space at the right time for some
music, and the space for this album would be closer to the
space occupied by Miles Davis or John Coltrane than the place
that most pop music today sits. Moody, dark and elusive this
is not poppy pop, but it has a staying power once it gets
under your skin. Sadly, since Morphine’s guiding light
Mark Sandman passed away shortly before this was released
this will have to have staying power. This is a fitting last
word from a unique creative talent. -JB
Air
The Virgin Suicides
Astralwerks
Air is absolutely one of those chosen few groups whose music
effects the listener like a potent psychedelic drug. As expected,
The Virgin Suicides is like a magic mushroom ride into your
own subconscious. The unique thing about this release is that
it is actually an all Air movie score to a film with the same
title directed by Sofia Coppola. But after hearing this CD
the last thing I want to do is see the film, because Air’s
music has created an entire mental opera inside my head that
is more lush than any film I’ve ever seen. Unlike Moon
Safari’s ethereal, fluffy, funky, pop bliss, The Virgin
Suicides is far more psychedelic, minimal, spooky, and even
gothic (in the Vincent Price, Edgar Allen Poe sense of the
word). There really is a medieval, gothic, dark elegance to
this CD, like it was composed and recorded deep under the
earth’s crust by some Dracula-esque character strung
out on opium and trying to summon up the spirits of the evil
dead. There are some tracks, however, that really aren’t
so dark, just slow, minimal, sentimental, and gorgeous. Almost
all the fourteen tracks are instrumentals, except one at the
beginning, making it a perfect CD to listen to on your headphones
as you drift off into innerspace (or outerspace, depending
on what drugs you happen to be on at the time). If you we’re
a fan of Moon Safari, introduce yourself to it’s evil
(yet more seductive) twin. Or, if you’re like most Heckler
readers whose steady diet of pop-punk might be leaving a bland
taste in your mouth, this may be just the thing to clear the
palate. -Chachi Jones
Anguish Unsaid
Wanting... Waiting
Bettie Rocket
What an amazing group of talented people. Sacramento’s
hardcore scene hasn’t been the same of late (except for
Will Haven & Training For Utopia), so it was nice to see
another solid group come to the forefront. First off, I think
the vocals of young Jon Edwards were performed while he was
on fire because he’s brutal! Yes kids, this is a X-tian
band, but I wish that wasn’t a problem for some of you
because you’re missing some outstanding talent here.
It’s always nice to hear two guitars in a hardcore setting.
Comfort Zone and the title track were certainly eye openers
and reasons why this could be the next band out of the prospering
Sacto scene to break nationally. Do yourself a favor and get
on this one now so you can say you were fans way back when!
-Che Brooks
The Line
Dissimilar
Volcom
Back with their third release, Big Bear’s favorite export
continues to stretch the boundaries of punk rock. If the music
industry were made up of just skaters and snowboarders The
Line would be fucking huge. They’ve been heavily featured
in skate and snowboard videos, loved by many a pro skater/snowboarder
and have even played the X-Games. While so many punk rock
bands suffer from faux NOFX or Bad Religion syndrome, The
Line is able to articulately and intelligently break away
from the mold of watered down imitations. The Line encompasses
the best of both worlds, bridging old school punk with melody.
The Line’s signature technicality and off time beat changes
are all here. This will be in my ghetto blaster for quite
some time. -Brad Oates
Bloodhoundgang
Hooray for Boobies
Geffen
With so many Limp Bizkits, Korns, and Kid Rocks out there,
it seems the world has no need for another rock rap crossover
band. Really, that’s all the Bloodhoundgang are, except
for one really important fact; they are funnier than shit.
They amazingly pull off songs that sample Metallica “For
Whom The Bell Tolls” with Frankie Goes to Hollywood;
and then break into Pink Floyd melodies that create music
that just makes you want to crack up. Then when you actually
pay attention to what the hell he’s sayin, you’ll
be calling your friends to say, “dude, you gotta hear
this shit, its fucked up!” Here are some song titles
just to give you a hint “That cough came with a prize,”
“This is stupid,” and “A lap dance is so much
better when the stripper is crying.” Music that’s
also comedy.-Brian Shevlin
Alkaline Trio
Maybe I’ll Catch Fire
Asian Man
I was speaking with The Dismemberment Plan’s singer,
Travis, about CDs we both liked, in particular the new Discount,
when he recommended this CD very highly. It’s pretty
solid, poppy, slightly emo-ish (Get Up Kids style) punk, and
I like it. But, it’s not blowing me away like Discount
does. But, the Discount CD took a little time to grow on me,
so maybe this will too. Anyway, it came in right before deadline
and it’s too late to send it to anyone else, so consider
this more of Travis’ recommendation, rather than my review.
-JB
Will Oldham
Guarapero Lost Blues 2
Drag City
The Palace mastermind is back with a disc full of his typically
great, weird and brilliant swampbluesgrassfolk and that doesn’t
even begin to describe what you get on this one. I never know
what exactly I’m listening to with Will Oldham. Is he
serious? Paying tribute to a few obscure forms of music? Making
fun of it? I don’t think he is but it’s easy to
see why some people might think so. Regardless, this album
is wonderful and highly recommended, especially to you folks
out there who like your Neil Young, your Lou Barlow and even
your J. Mascis and who still appreciate the lo-fi aesthetic
as I do. In fact, I’m cranking up the ol’ 4-track
after I finish this review. I always do after hearing a new
Oldham release. Grab today. -Kev Seconds
Death Threat
Peace & Security
Triple Crown
Connecticut’s Death Threat brings the truth through their
music, and with a definite east coast flavor. Let’s just
say these guys are pissed off, shall we? Maybe not the most
uplifting lyrics, but definitely coming from the side of truth,
these boys put down some quality east coast hardcore like
the older kids used to do it. Fans of Hatebreed, Madball,
Biohazard (early years) and many of the earlier bands will
be all over this one. Special guest appearance on the substantial
Life Sentence from Blood For Blood’s Buddah is also a
plus. There is something less generic about this record than
many that come from this genre. Musically & vocally there
are songs here for more than the casual fan. Just beware of
the in your face lyrics. Mom won’t be a fan of this one!
-Che Brooks
Smogtown
Fuhrers of the New Wave
Disaster Records
I always heard good things about these guys and was finally
introduced to them on the Old Skars and Upstarts comp, with
the ever so kick ass Porno Beach. So, I was definitely looking
forward to getting my grubby little hands on this release.
And I wasn’t disappointed. With songs about sex, drugs,
rock & roll and pinball , it’s all done with a snot-nosed
surf style reminiscent of DI. Smogtown rocks from beginning
to end and most of the songs are fresh from one another, so
it doesn’t get stagnant which is plaguing a lot of releases
these days. Refreshing like a good shot of smack to the neck.
-Mitch Soto
DJ Spooky VS Scanner
The Quick and the Dead
Beggars Banquet
DJ Spooky, the now famous father of New York’s “illbient”
sound, and Scanner, who is perhaps most famous for using a
police scanner in his live performances, both get together
in the truest spirit of collaboration on The Quick and the
Dead. Not only do the styles of each artist seamlessly melt
into each other, but the tracks flow into each other as well
with rarely a silent moment. The mood on this CD is absolutely
bipolar, because it starts out with one of the most energetic
hip-hop/drum ‘n’ bass songs I’ve ever heard
from either artist, and then delves into several tracks of
otherworldly ambient textures only to then reemerge with a
classic DJ Spooky style of chilled hip-hop breaks and reverberated
atmospherics. Honestly, I kind of wish these guys weren’t
so all over the map with the songs. What I found myself doing
was putting in the CD, really getting into that first song,
and then being confronted with this ocean of ambience that
really didn’t fit the mood. So what we wind up with are
some great artists who have placed some real sonic gems amidst
some ambient filler that gets a bit indulgent at times. Probably
not the best introduction to either of these artists, but
worthwhile to those who are already devoted to their sound
and vision. -Chachi Jones
DIO
Magica
Spitfire Records
Ronnie James Dio started something when he joined the ranks
of Black Sabbath and, of course, released his own masterpiece,
“Holy Diver.” Forward to 2000, he now is poised
to release “Magica.” The album features Simon Wright
(drums), Jimmy Bain (bass), and the incredible Craig Goldy
(guitar). This is a return to the days of “Mob Rules,”
“Long Live Rock And Roll,” and “Holy Diver.”
Standout tracks include the dreamy “Magica Theme”
and the sludgy “Lord Of The Last Day.” This album
has all the makings of a true DIO record; epic riffs, great
lyrics, and a smoking rhythm section. This is a concept record
(a first for Ronnie James). This is true horse-riding metal
that should not be overlooked. Forget “Angry Machines”
and “Sacred Heart.” This is the real deal. Give
this record a shot when it comes out. There was a reason Ronnie
sang on Sabbath records (particularly “Live Evil.”)
Sptifire records are on fire right now...literally. -Kenan
Lois Maffeo & Brendan Canty
The Union Themes
Kill Rock Stars
Fugazi Rocks Dude!! Now that I have your punk rock attention,
maybe you’d be interested in hearing something different
for a change. OK, Brendan Canty plays drums in Fugazi and
drums, guitar, bass and piano on this release. Lois Maffeo
is a folky and literate songwriter who came out of Olympia,
WA’s punk scene. Some of you already know all about this
background stuff and have probably already bought this. For
the rest of you: 10 great songs that have a folk rock feel
with a slight jazz feel at times, and are poppy in a good
way at all times. Atmosphere would be another good thing about
this CD. Go on, try something different, you just might like
it. -JB
Nick Cave and Mick Harvey
And The Ass Saw the Angle
Mute
Creepy and well-done theatrical story told by Nick (whose
voice is ideal for the material) and with music composed and
(I presume) performed by Mick. One rainy night, I turned off
all the lights, got some cheap red wine and got scared and
laughed and amused for the entire length of the tale. I won’t
spoil it, but if you buy this and take the time to listen
to it, you will get a great little journey into a place where
the sun doesn’t shine and where Nick Cave does some creepy
talking.
-Reverend Ed
Death Cab For Cutie
We Have the Facts, & We’re Voting
Yes
Barsuk
Destined to become one of the next big indie rock bands, Death
Cab draw the line somewhere between straight indie core and
emo driven pop. There is definitely a little more bounce in
this latest release, but the emotion that was evident in their
first album is still here too. Fans of Sunny Day & Built
To Spill may have a new favorite band with these guys. They
write these songs that get to the punch quick and have this
incredible ability to suck the listener in. Built around the
amazing vocal talent of Benjamin Gibbard, I wouldn’t
be surprised if some big label isn’t right now planning
to nab these guys - and with good reason. Rare is it to find
a band that can write really good songs on a consistent basis.
And true to form, there isn’t a stinker on this one.
Tight, heart-felt and meaningful, I can listen to this record
anytime. -Che Brooks
War Rocket Ajax
Bettie Rocket
Country flavored punk rock, might describe the stylings of
these rowdy critters from Santa Cruz, California. Granted,
most country music hella sucks, and putting out a good punk
release is no easy task either. But the way WRA bring the
two together into a cohesive sound is nothing short of brilliant.
Well formed songs, catchy lyrics, and solid guitar and drum
work, are some of the elements that make this album shine.
Standout cuts would be Edge Of The World and my favorite Train
Back To You, which would have made even Hank Sr. proud. Another
song, I Like Coffee, is excellent in it’s simplicity,
and features a guitar that has so much “twwaanng”
it sounds like its made of old bedsprings. -Drew Lawson
December
Praying Hoping Nothing
Inzane
This one definitely hit me like a ton of bricks the first
time I heard it! Straight out of the hardcore confines of
Reno, NV comes forth one of the most technical groups I’ve
heard from here in the U.S. Extremely unique drumming styles
and a passion for start/stop technicality, December brings
new rules to the genre of hardcore. December perfectly illustrates
my theory that hardcore has more to do with metal and less
& less to do with punk. Those of us that love the heavy
stuff but can’t get past much of the sloppy playing that
is out there won’t be able to kick these guys around.
A radically solid release that should not be overlooked by
the masses. -Che Brooks
Oasis
Standing On The Shoulders of Giants
Epic
This is one of the most hyped records of the new millennium.
In fact, it seems fitting to only use the ‘m-word’
in conjunction with CDs like this. Does it live up to the
hype? Nope. Is it a good album. Yep, like all the Oasis records,
it’s pretty good if not a bit formula and better in my
opinion than their last full studio CD. I really like Liam’s
voice a lot, and it’s pretty obvious that Noel’s
a solid songwriter. They’re not hampered by a skimpy
recording budget, so this is about what you’d expect,
despite the attempts to make it more ‘current’ with
electronics. 10 solid tunes and one bonus tracks with plenty
of musical Beatles quotes as you’d expect. Nothing groundbreaking,
but still better than quite a few things released these days.
-JB
Cat Power
The Covers Record
Matador
Cat Power, aka Chan Marshall, is one of the most distinctive
voices in indie rock. Kind of like an American version of
Bjork or PJ Harvey in an unusual and stripped bare way. As
the title implies, these songs are all covers by artists like
The Rolling Stones, Smog, Nina Simone, Bob Dylan and others.
On the first track, like Devo before her, Marshall has her
way with Satisfaction and turns it into her own piece. The
rest of the album follows suit and since the songs are familiar,
this is a good way to get to know Cat Power, with a familiar
frame of reference. Then, you’ll be ready for her next
album. -JB
Danny Tenaglia
Back To Mine
Ultra
Danny Tenaglia’s latest release, Back To Mine, explores
an unusual trip through house music. Tenaglia, is best known
for his deep house mixes that keep the dance floor jumping,
but Back To Mine shows another side of his mixing style. This
CD starts slow with some mellow, down beat tracks. The mix
changes gears around the third track into more house style
grooves. The vocals on these tracks start off mellow as well,
but as the beats get harder, the lyrics get more agressive.
I personally don’t care too much for lyrics over house
beats, but the lyrics on this CD aren’t too bad for the
most part. Unlike other house music CD’s, the tracks
featured on Back To Mine never get overbearing or repetitive
to the point of annoyance. Back To Mine is definitely a good
CD to have in the background of a party or even when you are
chillin’ with your friends. If you like house music,
but are tired of the same old shit then I recommend this CD
to you. -e-love
The Retardos
Scooch Pooch
This band makes me want to see them live. Sure, the drummer’s
slot could have been filled by any half way decent basher,
but the band fucking rocks, dude. Not that the recording is
something special or that the band is saying anything new,
but this is a good showcase of talent and style. Best song
is a GG Allin cover. It really showed what a great songwriter
Saint Allin was, along with being numero uno dookie thrower
and crowd murderer. I sincerely believe that I’ll run,
not walk, to see the Retardos live if they play nearby. -Reverend
Ed
Goldfinger
Stomping Ground
Mojo
I’m going on record to say that I like Goldfinger a ton!
Something about the pop/punk radio friendly guys that I just
can’t seem to shake. I know a lot of people harsh on
the likes of Goldfinger, Blink 182, etc... but there’s
always going to be the “I’m too core for that”
kind of guys, so what can ya do? This disc has fourteen tracks,
all around the popular two and a half to three minute mark
(well, actually it has twelve in my book, I can’t count
99 Red Balloons or Donut Dan as songs). Favorites include
You Think It’s A Joke, Don’t Say Goodbye and Counting
Days. I’m pretty sure you’ll be hearing this on
the radio as much as Blink’s Enema of the State, so be
prepared. -Robb Armstrong
Nobodys / The Beautys
Hugh
Sub City
First off, this split CD is a benefit for the Diana Price
Fish Foundation which is a Non-Profit organization to help
people who are dying of cancer to enjoy their lives with activities
that may lift their spirits. It is great to see bands and
record labels participating in organizations such as this.
The first half contains Nobodys, whose catchy fast songs have
remnants of early 80’s Los Angeles style punk. Most of
their songs are quick and to the point and for the most part
are fairly good. The second half, which is another 3-piece
called The Beautys, completely blew me away. If you are a
fan of X and The Muffs I highly recommend this band due to
the vocal harmonies and the musical tightness of this punk-pop
trio. Not only is this a great listen but it’s for a
good cause. -Kevin Evinger
Primer 55
Introduction to Mayhem
Island / Def Jam
This album is out of control! Metal meets rap head on in a
frighteningly powerful mixture that had me crying for my mommy.
If you ever thought Body Count was hardcore, Primer 55 makes
it sound like The Smiths. With more sonic punch than Pantera,
or Rage Against The Machine, Primer 55 combines evil, funky
sounding rhymes, with tough beats and gritty guitar riffs.
Lyrics like “a tisket, a tasket, that ass in a casket”
typify the sunny, upbeat musings on Intro to Mayhem. Seeing
them live would probably make your ears bleed, and how much
more of a recommendation do you need than that? -Drew Lawson
Incubus
Make Yourself
Immortal / Epic
Incubus has changed how I think about bands. For the longest
time, I deeply hated any type of music that sounded remotely
like Incubus or mixed semi-rapping with rock. Incubus tweaks
with that whole genre and creates something new with their
third release, Make Yourself. I am a changed man. They know
how to write great sounding heavy pop, creating choruses that
leave a mark on your brain. With their regularly rotated single
Pardon Me, Incubus is reaching the masses. Good for them,
they deserve it. Reminds me alot of P.O.D. Try it, you might
find yourself like me, experimenting with different genres.
-Don Clark
Quickspace
The Death of Quickspace
Matador
Indie Rock guitars and electronics laid over trance and dance
beats. No, don’t cry Folk Implosion just yet! Quickspace’s
third attack is nothing of the sort. Very moody, very drone,
very Quickspace. Tap your foot one minute then sink into your
pillow the next because these songs turn on you like mood
swings and oddly enough it’s easily digested. Drag out
those Elastica riffs and add more electronics and you’re
starting to feel it. Quickspace is taking a newer and fresher
approach and making their love for sound take many twists
and turns - from electronic drum beats to Hawaiian guitar
leads. A less hook based Stereolab? A more refined Wire? Or
something that can only be heard and called Quickspace? I
am betting on the latter and enjoying the ride. -Anthony Pappalardo
From Bubblegum to Sky
Me and Amy and the Two French Boys
Eenie Meenie
What would you get if you took Garbage and gave them a male
singer, some intelligence and wit? Check out the one-man band
From Bubblegum to Sky and you just might get an idea. Me and
Amy and the Two French Boys is an effervescent mix of keyboard
hi jinks and wonderkid Mario Hernandez’ slightly dark,
slightly off-kilter take on the world. “Better swallow
the tears/ been plannin’ for years,” he sings on
the lively Shaboom They Said before swirling the song off
into a series of “sha la la la’s”. She Floats
is a Strawberry Alarm Clock-tinged lovefest where “All
the office girls are singing ‘sha do ra ray’”
while the title track “shoo bops” with a slightly
bitter yet frothy commotion. Tasty. -Rachel Leibrock
Lambchop
Nixon
Merge
Six albums into its career, Nashville’s Lambchop have
created their most fully realized, beautiful album to date.
Rich in texture and emotion, Nixon perfectly showcases Kurt
Wagner’s gorgeous croon and Deanna Varagona’s sweet
backing vocals. Working his voice into a series of falsettos
and deep notes, Wagner is at the center of this record - emotionally
and musically. With a little assistance from the Nashville
String Machine, this is Mark Eitzel hanging out with Leonard
Cohen while listening to a little Tindersticks or modern day
Elvis Costello. This is smooth and divine, bitter yet soothing,
chilly yet fervent. This is beautiful. -Rachel Leibrock
The Letter E
ep
Tiger Style
Last Days Of May
Radiant Black Mind
Squealer
I’m reviewing these two records because they’re
both similar; instrumental guitar, bass, drums rock. You don’t
really hear that much instrumental rock and besides a few
things that come to mind like Pell Mell and Japancakes, not
much of it seems that great. Both of these CDs are good examples
of the form. The Letter E is more on the jangly, sometimes
even jazzy side while Last Days of May, led by ex Dream Syndicate
guitarist Karl Precoda is more noisy and psychedelic. Take
your pick, either of these will take their place next to your
jazz collection and merit repeated listens. -JB
The Shutdowns
T-75
Theologian
This may be the best new band I’ve heard in the last
six months. The Shutdowns have a real hard core rock-n-roll
sound that is reminiscent of Social Distortion, but with a
style all their own. These guys are by no means new to the
music business and their bio reads like a who’s-who of
Orange County punk rock. They have ex-members from The Grabbers,
U.S. Bombs, Buckshot, and Manic Hispanic. T-75 is a collection
of songs about the changing world and the importance of good
friends. Nothing real fancy here, just hard rock and roll
that makes you think a little bit about what is really important
in life. The Shutdowns’ crusty, guitar driven punk rock
is addictive. -Brad Gobdel
Ian Brown
Golden Greats
Interscope
Ian Brown wears great windbreakers and sneakers (or trainers
if you are in the UK) and when I heard his first solo record
I was reminded that I was a much bigger fan of his style and
work in the Stone Roses than his solo work. Golden Greats
is making me think much more about fluid beats and an accent
laden ranting voice. Maybe it was the jail time or the scrutiny
of the British press, but Brown has returned with a strong
effort that breaks the sophomore jinx. Although most of the
tracks are very electronic and dance based there is no fear
of guitar rock. Nowhere is this more evident than in the opener
Getting High which is based on a simple 3 chord hard rock
riff. The first single, Love Is Like A Fountain, has Brown’s
signature melancholy vocal style over a beat that bears a
resemblance to Stevie Wonder’s Superstition while other
beats are reminiscent of Portishead and U.N.K.L.E. The record
even boast an impressive U.N.K.L.E. remix of Brown’s
second single If Dolphins Were Monkeys. Brown’s work
in the Stone Roses was prolific and will always be his most
memorable but Golden Greats is a solid record that will keep
him around as a star. Ian Brown refuses to be seen as a piece
of nostalgia and Golden Greats takes elements of the past
and sculpts them into a new form with dance, trip-hop, and
even hints of middle eastern flavor, while still being able
to rock when needed. -Anthony Pappalardo
Enon
Believo!
Seethru
I have mixed emotions about this CD. I alternately love it
and am obsessed by it. In a world of overly sampled, retro,
used up and “been there” music, Enon is the fresh
fruit on my plate. I would love to describe the sound to you,
so you could understand the genius that lies within, but it’d
be very difficult to do so accurately. My two favorite songs
on the CD were Rubber Car and Cruel. I could say that parts
of the song remind me very much of Portishead, but only because
of the ambiance. I can also say that parts of the song remind
me of Ministry, but only by virtue of the “scary voice”
inserts here and there. There is some heavy industrial percussion,
which reminded me some of Frontline Assembly... kind of. Then,
there is the harmonizing that took me back to 1970’s
easy rock. It’s an amalgamation of many sounds, many
textures, all indescribable in its pureness. It works so well
and fits together in such a fascinating manner, that each
time I listen to it I find something new and rich to love
about it. -Melisa
William Orbit
Pieces in a Modern Style
Maverick
This is Orbit’s first full length CD since he hit the
mainstream after producing the Madonna’s last album.
That record is amazing and made me seek out his earlier work
which was even better. This however, is pretty underwhelming,
as well as being an odd introduction to Orbit. The entire
CD is new ‘electronic’ versions of classical music,
mostly 20th century. There is nothing really enlightening
to these interpretations, nor do the dance remixes on the
bonus CD work very well. I suppose if you’ve never heard
Barber, Cage, Satie, Ravel, Vivaldi, Beethoven, Handel or
Górecki, these might seem new or original, but they’re
not and neither is the idea. As such, like Switched On Bach
before it, it’s essentially just a novelty that will
quickly date itself. If you want to hear some synth-lite or
pop-classical, then check this out-it is well done, and it’s
hard to fuck up material like this; it still holds up, kinda’
like the 12 bar blues. But like the blues, it’s the difference
between John Lee Hooker and Robert Cray. I’m not giving
up on Orbit yet though; just like Jet Li’s first post
Lethal Weapon movie, I’m sure there’s something
good to come real soon. -JB
Dredg
Leitmotif
Woven
There’s really no one word that can describe Dredg except,
whoa! There’s something about their music that has kept
me trying to follow them around for two or three years now.
Straight out of Los Gatos, Ca, these guys rock like no other.
The bass lines are smooth, the vocals laid down by Gavin is
just something else. It’s actually singing, not like
other bands that might be clumped into the whole metal genre.
But they’re not like metal. I read once that they might
consider this to produce landscape visualizations - I can
see that. Like any other cool band I adore, they like Far.
Melodies that take you to a different level of being, vocal
harmonies that make you want to sit and meditate, and other
fine elements make Dredg one of my favorites. <www.dredg.com>
-Fungus
The Eyeliners
Here Comes Trouble
Panic Button
I hate to do this but I have to compare them to The Donnas,
simply so I can say how much they kick their ass. This female
trio rocks out! Fun, tight bursts of energy in the form of
songs. -HecklerGirl
The Smashing Pumpkins
The Machines of God
Virgin
Despite all the sordid stories I’ve heard about Billy
Corgan, his song writing still hits me deep in the gut. The
Pumpkins return with another near masterpiece. Most notable
is the return of drummer extraordinare Jimmy Chamberlin. He
really makes a difference from laying a solid floor foundation
to striking fills that are lightning fast and soaked with
flavor. He is a bad ass drummer and Billy, you are lucky you
got him back. Machina was produced by Flood and Billy and
the tones are excellent. There are no unnecessary overdubs
and all arrangements are on point. The songs blend the aggressiveness
of Pumpkins debut Gish and the grace of Adore. It is a rock
record, a damn good one. As a bonus, the liner notes feature
plates by artist Vasily Kafonov. The art compliments the typography
and they all go with the music making this a cohesive work.
Ultimately, I always expect SP to be cheesy and crappy, letting
their pretentiousness and fashion sense ruin their music.
However, they just keep getting better. I love this album.
-SM
Chumbawamba
WYSIWYG
Republic/Universal
The World’s only anarchists with a top 10 hit are back
with the 22 song What You See Is What You Get. Although, this
album is a bit more subtle and varied than 98’s Tubthumper,
there aren’t any huge surprises here. Most of the familiar
elements of that album, huge choruses, quieter ethereal female
vocals, male spoken word stuff and sampled snippets, are here
along with some newer more organic elements, ie; more guitar,
piano and even a little pedal steel. With song titles like
I’m With Stupid, Hey, Hey We’re the Junkies and
WWW Dot, the Chumbas are still writing songs about the folly
of modern man and our civilization. And, while they do get
a bit preachy and/or simplistic at times, at least they have
some beliefs and are sincerely trying to make a positive change.
They probably won’t get asked to play spring break, and
I wonder if they’ll be able to repeat their top 10 success.
Regardless, this is one of the more interesting bands in pop
music right now, and even though I probably won’t listen
to this a whole lot, I do have a lot of respect for this band.
Kind of like an EZ-listening version of Negativland. -JB
Sensefield
Under The Radar
Warner Bros.
You’ve sort of already read reviews of this record, including
my own, but if you went to try and find the CD you would have
been skunked. Advances on this record with one different song
were sent out last year, under the title ‘Sensefield’
but then the CD never came out. I was kinda’ wondering
if the band got dropped by Warners in the wake of the big
consolidations. No dice, they were smart and kept this band
on board while they re-mixed the entire record and added one
new song and now they’re gonna finally release it. I’ll
believe it when I see it. If you have one of those early promos,
it’s a collector’s item. Otherwise get this when
it comes out. As I, and quite few others said before, it’s
one of the best records of the year. While this band came
from emo/punk roots, this album is so melodically and texturally
mature, that they’re really in a class of their own.
Kind of like Fugazi on the harder side. -JB
Fishsticks
Disko
Theologian
When I lived in California there was always a mysterious buzz
around this band. No one really knew who they were or what
they were about, but it seemed that everyone I talked to agreed
that Fishsticks were a great band. One day I saw the Mr. T.
vs Godzilla 7” at the record store. Upon further inspection
I noticed it had 11 tracks on it. A 7” record with 11
tracks? I had to get it. I rushed home to listen to it, and
at first I thought my roommate’s record player was on
the wrong speed, because the record was over as soon as it
started. All I could hear was some guy screaming over charging
guitars and choppy drumming. After adjusting the speed for
a while I realized this was the way it was supposed to sound.
Then I sat back and listened to it over and over again, to
try to figure out what the big deal was. After a while it
hit me - The Fishsticks were like no band I’ve ever heard.
They sounded like a super charged version of Black Flag with
attention deficit disorder. They come blasting out with all
kinds of energy and indecipherable lyrics and 20 seconds later
the song is over. Disko is a compilation of everything Fishsticks
have ever recorded. It has 31 songs and lasts about as long
as it takes to read this review, but it’s well worth
it. Enjoy. -Brad Gobdel
Supreme
Beings Of Leisure
Palm Pictures
Picked this one up just for the art, and was pleasantly surprised.
Some great music, and it seems scarce these days to find some.
This CD is an intoxicating blend of some slow trip-hop that
morphs a little on the electronic/dance side. I see a big
influence by Morcheeba because Morcheeba has the whole guitar
melted right into the beats to where it sounds perfectly in
balance. That might also be because the girl singing has a
super hypnotic voice as well. A great find. -Isacto
Violent Femmes
Freak Magnet
Beyond Music
What? A new Violent Femmes record? Not the kind of thing you’d
normally expect a whole lot from. After all, their two most
well known songs, the ones you still hear on alternarockstations,
Blister in the Sun and Gone Daddy Gone, are from their first
record, which was released in 1982. I mean, that’s the
last millennium. Well surprise, surprise - this is a damn
good record! They don’t seem to have lost a shred of
intensity. Songs like Freak Magnet and Mosh Pit still ooze
with pent-up teen energy and a touch of the bizarre. In the
Dark sets a secret agent story to one of the most well-advised
Casio beats I’ve heard. And let’s face it, singer/songwriter
Gordon Gano has one of the great voices of rock and roll.
This point is driven home by the inclusion of the unsalvageable
song New Generation, which is sung by a bandmate, but no amount
of processing can put his voice on the same level of coolness
as Gano’s. Heck darn, even the artwork is cool, with
a kid-like look derived from bright colors and the use of
a computerized fake construction paper cutout freak-mascot
(complete with strategically placed third leg - hint, hint).
The really remarkable thing is that these guys still sound
completely fresh, like they just learned to play their instruments
yesterday. -Ben Morss
Elliott Smith
Figure 8
Dreamworks
Reviewing a new Elliott Smith CD is pretty much a no brainer.
I mean the guy is one of the best pop songwriters alive that
has a decent record contract. He’s not the kind of guy
that’s going to experiment with dance music, because
that’s what’s trendy right now. So, this is pretty
much exactly what you’d expect; another great album of
Elliott’s songs once again produced by Tom Rothrock &
Rob Schnapf. -JB
The Makers
Rock Star God
Sub Pop
Rock Star God is The Maker’s epic, their double LP mark
on garage rock that not only meets the challenge of keeping
your interest for 48 inches of music but establishes them
as a rock band. There is nothing garage about this. big production,
strong songwriting and diversity that dips into rock, funk,
glam, kitsch, and just about everything in between but still
sounds like only the Makers do. The Makers are aware of their
roots such as T Rex and Bowie but put enough new flavor and
personality into the formula that there are accusations of
rehashing, just rocking. Whether it’s a straight forward
rock song or a lounge-tainted number Rock Star God flows and
dare I say - grooves! This just makes me think of red velvet
and acid, sunglasses and bandanas around microphone stands.
We all have a soft spot for the classic rock channel, it’s
always our choice when the alternative station is on commercial
break and the hip-hop station is playing Puff Daddy so why
not take the spirit of classic rock and interject the attitude
of punk and current music and give Rock Star God a spin? -Anthony
Pappalardo
Mustard Plug
Plug For Mojo
Hopeless
I remembered that Mustard Plug was on a comp I got a while
back called Hopelessly Devoted to You Too. It was nice to
hear another band like an Asian Man Records band. Just due
to the fact that they have the now obligatory love song in
there (Someday, Right Now), I give em their props. If you’re
a ska punk kiddie, pick this one up. -Fungus
Allister
Dead Ends and Girlfriends
Drive Thru
I saw some caption on the package of the CD about songs about
girls, so I gave the CD a chance. Allister does pop punk,
love style, and they do it well. But there’s something
else about them - all four members of the band sing, which
is cool, but some of them really shouldn’t try (or should
try harder). Overall though, this CD rocks pretty hard. It’s
tough for me to listen to some CD’s like this all the
way through, but, that’s just cause I can’t take
the combination of pop punk, and love. There’s something
about it in mass quantities. Atari’s-like punk, with
old school Green Day in there too. I want it that way. They
even do that Backstreet Boys song. Four boys with broken hearts,
and a pop punk attitude. -Fungus
Jackpot
Weightless
Future Farmer
If you think that most CDs and most bands being released today
are actually pretty good, then stop reading this right now.
If on the other hand, you think like I do, that most of the
music being released today is soulless, predictable crap then
you’ll really like this and will still be playing it
10 years from now. Jackpot is a band that plays very melodic,
very energetic, soulful country music. The good kind of country
music, the kind that rocks but not in a cheesy Garth Brooks
kind of way. More like Neil Young when he lets the twang loose.
I can’t recommend this album enough. Rusty Miller is
one of the best songwriters I’ve heard in quite a while,
and hopefully this CD will bring that fact to more people’s
attention. Jackpot puts on a fantastic live show by the way.
On a side note, Future Farmer is a label that is partially
owned by Jeff Klindt, the man behind Real & Deluxe skateboards.
-JB
The Fairlanes
Bite Your Tongue
Suburban Home
The first time I heard this I thought, “Oh great. Just
what the world needs, another poppy-punk band.” After
listening to it a few more times I kind of got into it, until
I read the band member’s dorky bios inside the CD sleeve.
Then I listened to it a few more times, and was hooked. The
Fairlanes are definitely a pop-punk band, but that is not
necessarily a bad thing because they pull it off with speedy
guitars and a sense of humor. Any band that can cover White
Lion and Madonna on the same record, and still be called punk
is okay in my book. I’ll bet they’d be fun to see
live, and a lot of girls would be at the show, so that’s
a bonus. -Brad Gobdel
Sarah Cracknell
Lipslide
Instinct
You may recognize the name of this girl but you don’t
know where, right? Sara is the singer for the ultra pop group
St. Etienne. A couple of years ago she released this CD in
the UK, and from what she told me she had a falling out with
the label and they never did a thing with it. So here it is
a couple years later but still just as fresh as can be, re-released.
There is a happy ending to this story however, the new US
version includes all the b-sides off of the singles, and a
CD rom video of the hit Anymore. Fans of either great female
vocals or St. Etienne are undoubtedly bound to fall for this.
-Isacto
The Anniversary
Designing A Nervous Breakdown
Vagrant Records
This is one of the best CD’s I’ve ever heard, and
catchy at that too. Something about the dual male/female vocals
and keyboard that gets me going. This CD pulled me through
some personal trauma and heartbreak. Too emo for some maybe,
but it’s just so pretty and heartfelt, I don’t know
if anyone should pass this one up. You might as well run to
your local indie record store and snatch this one up. www.anniversaryrock.com
-Fungus
Antipop Consortium
Tragic Epilogue
Ark 75
When Chuck D said, “..but rap got pussy whipped,”
he was not talking about Antipop Consortium. This is hip hop
in its finest form. If you watch MTV, take all that commercial
shit you’ve been programmed with and throw it out the
window. AC use lyrical flow and sparseness to create a hardcore
and original sound that hits hard. It is reminiscent of the
great De La Soul in the sense that creativity and originality
are present. With 19 tracks, this is already my hip hop pick
of 2000. No challenge. -SM
New
Found Glory
Nothing Gold Can Stay
Drive Thru
There is a new faction of pop-punk that has grown and branched
off from the hardcore scene and that very branch is one of
the biggest. A New Found Glory is definitely a name that is
mentioned and praised as one of the genre’s leaders.
With a barrage of touring and a new LP called Nothing Gold
Can Stay they have solidified their position. The sound is
a mix between pop punk and modern emo gravitating more toward
the pop side of things with nods to bands like Game Face and
Blink. New Found Glory isn’t reinventing the wheel, and
aren’t claiming to do so either, but they have the energy,
hooks and melody to please. Nothing Gold Can Stay offers you
twelve short sweet and catchy pop tracks and an energetic
fun vibe. -Anthony Pappalardo
Bad
Livers
Blood & Mood
Sugar Hill
I’ve heard of this band, but never really heard them
until now and I just can’t quite peg them, but I like
‘em. A lot. Kind of hillbilly punk. Or maybe hip-hop
country. Anything but formula, this CD has a unique sound,
a very rare thing these days. I doubt this will appeal to
a lot of people, but a few people will really like this a
lot. I’m one of the latter. -JB
Sleater-Kinney
All Hands On The Bad One
Kill Rock Stars
This band just keeps getting better, and the steps are getting
bigger as well. This is easily their best album yet. The energy
that made SK’s rep is very much intact, but the songs
just keep getting better and more melodic. Very highly recommended.
I’m biased a bit though, because my friend, and the editor
of our sister pub, Tape Op, Larry Crane, recorded this at
his studio, Jackpot! in Portland, OR. (Check out www.tapeop.com
for a free subscription.) -JB
Funeral Oration
Discography
Hopeless
Has it really been 16 years since Funeral Oration first started
belting out their own brand of melodic punk rock? Wow, that
is hard to believe because their music is so timeless it’s
almost scary. The fine folks at Hopeless have put together
quite a collection of rare, unreleased and live tracks for
this two disc discography. If you’ve never heard of Funeral
Oration before that is okay, because chances are most of the
punk bands you listen to have, and adopted a little bit of
F.O.’s style in their own music, so you’ll feel
right at home. These Danish punkers practically invented what
is known as melodic punk, and singer Peter Zirschky’s
voice is as unique as it is hypnotic. Funeral Oration has
never been the most technical band on the planet, but when
it comes to smooth, fast music these guys are the masters.
No tricks, no slick production, just solid punk rock. -Brad
Gobdel
Static X
Push It
Warner Bros
If you don’t already own their full-length player, you
should be ashamed. Songs like “Stem” and “Push
It” were made for hard rock radio (and your CD player).
Imagine White Zombie injected with 10cc’s of hate and
you get the picture. The single includes the fabulous “Bled
For Days” and of course, different versions of “Push
It.” Get this. -Kenan
Lakuna
Castle Of Crime
4AD
This is a solo project from Throwing Muses’ drummer David
Narcizo and is an instrumental trip-hoppy kind of thing. At
times it reminds me of Mark Mothersbaugh’s (Devo) Musik
for Insomniaks. Narcizo is also a graphic designer and the
insert showcases some very tasty design. -JB
Braid
Lucky To Be Alive / Movie Music Pt. 1&2
Glue Factory
1999 saw the unfortunate break up of this super great and
influential band. These two super releases that just came
out, truly let you get a better look into the phenomena of
Braid. The first is a two CD set that included every unreleased,
b-side, 7” release, and compilation release known to
man. Very comprehensive, and does a great portrayal of the
band’s progression. The second release is a live show
from late ‘99 which I assume is from one of their last
shows. So if you screwed the pooch and never saw them live
you should certainly get this so you don’t feel totally
out of the loop. -Isacto
Krisiun
Conquerors Of Armageddon
Century Media
This Brazilian 3-piece is the epitome of speed/death metal.
Their latest offering is their finest work to date, showcasing
some brilliant double-bass work and awesome guitar tone. I
saw them w/ Angelcorpse and Incantation at the Club Cocodrie
and was baffled by their sheer velocity. This album is like
Morbid Angel meets Deicide. Krisiun are world-class players
who push the envelope of death metal. If you like an album
fast, this is a sure-fire pick. -Eddie Jorgensen
Hangnail
BEC Records
If you hate people who “categorize” bands, start
hating me and check out what Hangnail plays: Are you ready
for this? Progressive Punk Rock. Ridiculous? With some “Hemispheres”
era Rush riffs and some Dixie Dregs era Steve Morse licks,
these guys take their happy-peppy punk rock to a new level
of virtuosity. Forget about drunken, fuck-everything, sloppy
moshing, theses guys might even play with (gasp!) sheet music!
One way or another, they’ll leave you shaking your head.
-Kenan
Forest of Impaled
Demonvoid
Red Stream
As long as Patrick (Red Stream’s main man) is putting
out records like this, he’ll be in this business for
a long time. Forest of Impaled is akin to Sadistic Intent
or Death in the old days. Although there is some keyboard
work, this album is one of the heaviest death metal releases.
Forest of Impaled is technical thrash with death metal vocal
stylings and brilliant guitar work. Pick up this album if
you like 80’s thrash (ala Possesed). -Eddie Jorgensen
Pedro The Lion
Winners Never Quit
Jade Tree
Jade Tree has signed yet another great band. Pedro the Lion
has enjoyed a healthy buzz on the underground scene for quite
a while now, and now that I’ve heard this I can see why.
PTL is pretty the brainchild of Dave Bazan, and this CD is
a mix of solo acoustic guitar and more fleshed out pieces.
Both formats work equally well, showcasing some excellent,
melodic, heartfelt songwriting and a strong vocalist. Get
this and see what the buzz is about. -JB
Radio Nationals
Exit 110
Roam
If you’re wondering if it’s possible to create a
great record with just a couple guitars, a bass, some drums
and a singer with a few decent songs, you need to hear this
record. It is possible? Old fashioned? Maybe, but it’s
nice to know such a simple formula can still work. You can
get it at <radionationals.com>, it’s worth the
trip. -Kenan
Midtown
Save The World, Lose The Girl
Drive Thru
This rocks. They even mention something about the PETA people
in there, so I wonder if they’re vegan? Overall, I get
a good feeling out of this one. The music goes from smooth
and soft, to fast paced and exciting. It’s definitely
more than just any punky band. Don’t be thrown off by
the cute boys on the back cover. -Fungus
Sinclaire
Mama’s Boys
Sonic Union Records
A seven song EP with driving emotion overrun by passion and
anguish. These Mama’s Boys are surely heartbreakers too.
Reminiscent of Knapsack, the songs speak to you like a soft
voice out of the darkness growing closer until you can fell
the warm breath on your cheek. Re-released with two bonus
tracks, if these newer songs are any indication of things
to come, expect a brilliant full length. -HecklerGirl
Asian Dub Foundation
Community Music
L Labels
I only have an EP sampler of this, but judging from that,
the ADF has upped the ante quite a bit from their previous
CD. Most bands that try to mix rock, hip-hop, dub, rap, dance
and ethnic music come off as failed, disjointed, experiments.
But, these guys pull if off without a hitch. Check this out
for a glimpse of the future. -JB
Half Pint
Recollection
Cornerstone R.A.S.
Ahhhh, the sweet sounds of Lindon Roberts, aka Half Pint.
Recollection is basically the same recollection that every
other label has had (Hightone Records, Heartbeat, etc... )
regarding the mighty Half Pint, but this time it’s brought
to you by the Southern Cali guys Cornerstone/Skunk. This CD
has all the classics (well, not all the classics but at least
half of them) Have a Little Faith, When One Gone, and Cost
Of Living. Half Pint has worked with many producers and musicians
throughout his career, mainly King Jammys, Peter Chemist,
Sly and Robbie and the Hightimes band (I believe that most
of the stuff you’ll hear on this disc will be Sly and
Robbie with production by Peter Chemist) This is definitely
a good disc and should be checked out by anyone wanting to
hear one of the sweetest voices in all of Reggae music. -Robb
Armstrong
Sin Ropas
Three Cherries
Perishable
What is the thrill of playing with broken toys? Is it the
challenge of making a mountain out of a molehill? What about
broken instruments and cheap gadgetry? Melodicas, slide guitar
and the Casio that was at the garage sale you passed by last
year, they all seem to possess great potential for cheap thrills.
However, the sound is no sweeter than Sin Ropas debut. Look
at this crew’s credentials - Tim Hurley (who has resided
in Red Red Meat, Califone, and Loftus), Danni Iosello (Pure
and Califone) and Noel Kupersmith (Brokeback and the Chicago
Underground). This concoction of eight blissful, lo-fi songs
could best be described as My Bloody Valentine meets The Ozarks,
creating dream pop down at the Jabberwocky Junction. Overall,
Sin Ropas’ debut is as disdainful as it is dreamy, creating
a strange but beautiful experience. -Andrew Duncan
For The Love Of
In Consequence
Ferret
Math heavy metal-core from New Jersey. High quality sound
and interesting time changes. It’s good to hear this
type of music with really technical drum work for a change.
Think Starkweather and Acme with a bit less sludge and more
snap. Angry, sharp, and hard hitting. Ferret puts out another
good one. -Chris Sprouls
Jonah’s
Onelinedrawing
Sketchy EP #2
Old
In my opinion, it only gets better from here. When I heard
that Jonah’s old band Far broke up, I was in a state
of shock. The band that carried me through high school and
pushed me into emo, was gone. But Jonah capitalized on this
big break from Far to go on his own. His Onelinedrawing project
has gone from a tape, to two successful EP’s. If you’re
trying to decide which EP to get, get both. Really, it’s
essential for a healthy lifestyle. Join the rest of Jonah’s
fans and sing along too, with the likes of R2-D2 on the CD.
Six songs, sliding scale, and a whole lot of rock. Don’t
forget to cry when Crush On Everyone comes on. Quiet melodies,
heartfelt lyrics, and music you can groove to. What more can
you ask for? He even does a awesome live show. www.onelinedrawing.com
-Fungus
Zoppi
Suspended
MCA
This Sacramento 5-piece has been tearing up the club circuit
over the last two years. In addition, Bob Zoppi and Co. have
constructed one of the best pop releases of 2000. One Sun
is the first single and is sure to be a blockbuster hit. If
you like the subtle nuances of the Gin Blossoms with the smarts
of Matchbox 20 (for songwriting, of course), Zoppi is for
you. Suspended, the title track, is my pick for the big single.
This album is fresh, innovative, and ready for the masses.
Pop culture can’t be all that bad, as long as bands like
Zoppi make records. -Eddie Jorgensen
Chevelle
Point #1
Squint
Just because their under a Christian label, does that mean
they’re a Christian band? I don’t know, it generally
does, but I was told they weren’t. Weird. It doesn’t
really matter ‘cause this band is good. One of those
CD’s that has been in my CD player on repeat. Chevelle
does it like the big boys do it these days, but not all popular
like Limp Bizkit and those other scary bands. I heard they
like Helmet and Far, and I can hear it too. But they do talk
about God, and the fact that only every other song is good
bothers me a little. Just a little though, since the guitar
playing and soothing vocals redeem it. When their songs are
good, they’re good. I still think they’re a Christian
band though. -Fungus
Hydra
Head
Coalesce / Boy Sets Fire
After being my favorite 7” last year Hydra Head has made
me very happy by releasing this amazing record on CD, and
adding a song from each band. There are very few bands that
play with such emotion and intensity that when I hear them
my fists clench and I get the chills. Both of these bands
have that power. Coalesce brutalize two Boy Sets Fire songs
and then Boy Sets Fires returns the favor. Four songs that
simply rule. Words can’t describe how good these bands
are and how they’ll make you feel. Some of the best hardcore
songs of all time. Period. -Chris Sprouls
Canvas
Metal Blade
Metal Blade finally gets some sense and teams up with Prosthetic
to release this great new band. Very, very fucking brutally
amazing hard/grindcore from a band I had never heard of. Turns
out these guys are from the UK and have been touring across
the pond with Iron Monkey, Earth Crisis, and Converge. Makes
sense because they have a very similar sound. I’m happy
to hear they are also all vegan. Anyway, alot of this CD was
recorded at Andy Sneaps’ studio (Earth Crisis, Machine
Head, etc) and will rip you apart. It’s really worth
your time to find this one. -Chris Sprouls
Stormtroopers of Death
Speak English or Die
Megaforce
When I was 13 years old I discovered S.O.D. in the mall record
store. I would always flip through my favorite section, “Metal
Imports”, and check out the crazy names and album art.
I was always too scared to actually buy one of them, but looking
was rad. I was already way into Anthrax when I saw that Charlie
and Scott were on the back cover of Speak English or Die -
I was tempted. Scanning the song list... a Freddy Krueger
song?! It was a must buy. S.O.D. mixed metal, hardcore, and
punk way before anyone else and really broke new ground. Super
short, funny songs (over 20 of them) that kicked ass over
my regular metal list. Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Motley
Crue (who S.O.D. openly mocked in a song) were now stale,
soft, and boring as hell. After finding this record, I bravely
grabbed Exodus, Slayer, Venom, and countless others from the
import bin. After 15 years and one million albums sold, this
baby has been reissued and remastered. A live show from Japan
is also thrown in for good measure. Speak English or Die still
holds it’s own after all this time. Awesome. Sargent
D is coming and you’re on his list! -Chris Sprouls
The Pimps
To a Cool Person Stay That Way!
Hollywood
My goodness. The name would have you thinking that something
fun and worthwhile might be goin’ on here. In general,
I don’t like to diss bands that I don’t enjoy because
someone down the street might like them just fine, but really,
this is my “once a year bitch”. I can’t begin
to comprehend why what appears to be four middle-aged white
guys would get together and try to make rap/rock/punkrock
music. Nothing against middle-aged white guys that actually
pull that off, like Limp Bizkit and Kid Rock. I give them
all the respect in the world for what they do. It’s a
hard mix though and if you have no idea of what you’re
doing, it just comes off as annoying and distressing. I was
most terrified of the song Muthafuggaz, which seemed to be
an attempt to “bond” with the “brothas”
and the “peoples” who knew how to “get theirs”.
In my mind, the CD does possess one redeeming quality - it
will be saved and given to one of my three brothers next Christmas.
If nothing else, you gotta love the CD title! -Melisa
Demons & Wizard
SPV
For those who still embark on an occasional D&D adventure
and need an accompaniment of epic proportions, look thou to
Demons & Wizards, a project featuring Jon Schaffer from
Iced Earth and Hansi Kursch of Blind Guardian. The band’s
debut release dates back to a time when metal tunes were treated
more like a journey into composition than regular song structures
(revisit Metallica’s older instrumentals for reference).
Besides the hokey King Diamond-like vocal screams, the cheesy
keyboards and what feels like a lengthy listen, one can find
some talented instrumentation. On one extreme there are powerful
driving hardcore rhythms and blasts of guitar serenades and
then there are times of dark gothic minimalism. Expect the
typical from the metal massacre of Blood On My Hands to the
monolithic power balled of Fiddler On the Green. Every heavy
metal concept is observed with eager respect. -Andrew Duncan
