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HOT NEW REVIEWS
The Coffis Brothers
'Wrong side of the road' (Independent/Hemifran)
Wrong side of the road is the 2nd CD of
the band The Coffis Brothers, a 5-piece act formed around 2 brothers, Jamie and
Kellen Coffis’ the real ‘Coffin Brothers’, who are lead vocalists/songwriters
and their band ‘The Mountain Men’ featuring lead guitarist Kyle Poppen, bassist
Mason Hutchinson and drummer Henry Chadwick. They released their debut in 2011
and now follow it up with a very strong record. They haul from the Santa Cruz
mountains in California and their sound is smooth typical Californian sounding.
Breezy as a summer wind and smooth as the dry sunny weather in that region.
Actually it is a mix of all traditional American styles, which includes
southern rock, country, westcoast/aor, bluesrock and The Coffis Brothers give
it a sorta pop approach in every song, because it all sounds very clean and
perhaps during the first part of the album a little brave like The Avett
Brothers. The second part of the record is more interesting, as this rocks
clearly and offers some different twists. Actually they do remind me a lot of
Venice, with a sorta Tom Petty of the early 1980s thrown in for good measure.
The album feels like a high
quality major label ish record that could be massive in America, with harmonyvocals
all over the place in the best American tradition (The Eagles).
If we have a run through the
tracklisting, the album opens with I'm Gonna Find You (slowtempo rocker,
slightly alternative, but beautiful westcoast/aor chorus a la Venice), followed
by Trouble Town (midtempo semi southern crossover/country light rocker a la The
Avett Brothers, a very catchy radio ready tune), The Hardest Thing (light
westcoast uptempo tune a la Eagles and here we have a hello to Venice) and Love
of Mine (acoustic westcoast summer breeze in classic California style a la
Eagles/Venice). Things finally get rocking during Rollin, a groovy hardrocker
in the Black Crowes style, with a very nice solo, although next track I'd Do
Anything is another light westcoast tune. From Before and After (feat. Tammi
Brown) on, things start to sound a little different, because this is a slow
soulful tune with strong vocalwork. Runaways then again is a calm country tune
with a pure westcoast chorus a la Venice, Eagles, Orleans… The final 5 tracks
are all showing this band at their best, so it seems like they kept the best
until the end. Give It to Me is a great slowtempo soulful rocker that even
sounds a bit like Bryan Adams, while If You're Going With Me is a very good
uptempo rocker with a powerpop ish retro rocksound, but nevertheless reminding
of Poco and The Outlaws. Big Time is a slowtempo heavy bluesrocker, I Ain't
Leavin is a southern rocker like Lynyrd Skynyrd, starting slow and working its
way up to a rocking end, while closing track Wrong Side of the Road (feat. Jim
Lewin, Ryan Avellone & Andy Zenczak) is another slowtempo heavy
bluesrocker. Concluded, the start was a little safe, with nevertheless great
typical American music, westcoast at it’s best sometimes in the classic Californian
tradition of The Eagles and Venice, but thankfully there was also a change
somewhere midway and especially the last 5 tracks went into a slightly rockier
direction, showing that this is a great band with a bright future. This is one
of those bands that will last a long time, will develop themselves and become a
household name. Check them out at: www.coffisbrothers.com
(Points: 8.6 out of 10)
Millpond Moon 'Time to turn the tide' (Independent/Hemifran)
Americana Music from Bergen, Norway… Millpond Moon is a duo consisting of Kjersti Misje on guitar and vocals and Rune Hauge on guitar, dobro and vocals, whom already appeared together at the Glastonbury Festival in 2004, so they have been a duo for more than 10 years now. There is a share of low octave male and higher octave female vocals, with Kjersti having the best voice of the two. They do sound a tiny bit like The Common Linnets, but then less commercial. The best songs are Turn the Tide (beautiful folk), Lena Baker, Modi (piano shuffle ballad with amazing vocals, sorta 1930s spirit), No Man's Land (best song, westcoast tingled tune) and the lovely Wayfaring Stranger. Kitty Cat is a song that sounds dangerously close to Caro Emerald and somehow Millpond Moon sounds like a Dutch act actually, but they are Norwegian and released an interesting album. There is by the way a list of guest musicians on the album, of whom we need to mentioned Kenny Malone, a legendary percussionist on the Nashville studio scene (played with Ray Charles, Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Darrell Scott, Townes Van Zandt, etc.etc.). You can bet this is a high quality release that finds its way easily to the fans of Americana/Folk music. More at: http://www.millpondmoon.com/
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Erik Sitbon 'And the Ghost Band' (Red Stone Records/Hemifran)
In 2004 French singer/songwriter/guitarist Erik Sitbon released his debut record Tame the Ghosts and through the years he climbed up in the folk/rockscene, winning important awards in 2012 and 2013 (the famous CMA Awards) in France, making him a superstar over there. Together with the Ghost Band, consisting of Olivier Penicaut (Guitar, Mandolin), Nicolas Fremont (Piano, keyboards & backing vocals), Manu Bertrand (Pedal Steel/Dobro/mandolin/Banjo & backing vocals), Jessy Roussel (2nd voice & backing vocals), Patrick Loiseau (Bass & backing vocals) and Frantxoa Erreçarret (Drums & percussion), Erik releases a terrific same titled album that as mentioned before won album of the year awards in homecountry France. The CD I received is sadly a sorta promo of a double-CD he released sometime ago (2013), so it could well be that a new album will be released in the very near future. Meanwhile, this is a great sneak peak at one of the greatest new rockstars from France at the moment. The album has folk and country as basis, but rocks quite hard sometimes and definitely goes into melodic rock territory more than a few times. Actually this is melodic rock in disguise, with a folk and country twist covering it all up. Bruce Springsteen meets Johnny Cash, while going on a Bryan Adams holiday with Tom Petty, that sorta combination is thinkable when listening to Erik Sitbon. Sometimes it is crossover melodic rock with superb vocals and choruses, also during the calmer tunes it is pure Americana, just perfectly done and very American orientated. Vocally somehow it has a surprising Swedish/Dutch kinda style that even reminds me of Ian Parry and Thomas Vikstrom somehow!!! However, basically we have here a huge winner in the music business and it would not surprise me that Erik will become huge outside France as well. Highlights on this album are Run Around With the Angels (catchy uptempo melodic rock, but then with acoustic guitars), Mississippi (groovy melodic rocker, electric guitars, very strong tune, pure melodic rock bliss!!!), Sunflower field (calmer acoustic Ameriana vibe to be heard here), Hell in my mind (very catchy melodic chorus, superb tune with a shuffle rhythm), Down the River (Bluegrass), Run to You (great uptempo aor/melodic rocker/poprocker lovely tune!!!), Wait for Me (lovely melodic rock ish semi ballad) and Back to the Roots (rockabilly rocker). Can’t wait to hear much more from this talented musician, who seems to have created a sound that will probably be loved by a wide range of music fans out there, while still keeping it catchy enough for radio to pick up a song for heavily airplay rotation. Check him out asap at: www.eriksitbon.com
(Points: 8.8 out of 10)
Forest Field 'Angels?' (Rock Company)
Forest Field is a Dutch project lead by Chinawhite guitarist Peter Cox. The album Angels? features Peter not only playing guitar, but also bass, keyboards, mellotron, piano, drums and organ, while for the singing part we can hear good old American singer Phil Vincent, who is also a multi-instrumentalist and a regular feature in the melodic rockscene. Phil and I go back in time to the mid 1990s when he released his first couple of albums in a period when this kind of music was completely dead. Now in 2015 melodic rock is all around and Forest Field is a great project that can easily be mentioned alongside Phil Vincent’s music, although there’s much more to explore here, because Peter also loves to go wild on the keys and then a sorta new age meets 70s symphonic rock instrumental sound is hearable. Anyway, if we have a look at the tracklisting, it starts with the instrumental Broken wings, followed by Angels (typical Phil Vincent style, good catchy 80s uptempo melodic heavy rocker like Pink Cream 69 meets Praying Mantis), Left at cloud 9 (beautiful instrumental calm piece), It looks like rain (nice semi instrumental, bluesy rock, beginning melodic rock), Angel with a dirty face (midtempo AORish, Journey meets House Of Lords, good vocals by Phil and perhaps the best song), Message for a messenger (great instrumental, a little mystic), The zoo (good Phil Vincent ish melodic rock), Lovers lane (great instrumental, guitar solo a la Neal Schon, beautiful melodies and definitely the best instrumental), Change me (very nice midtempo melodic rock, slightly proggy), In excelsis (fine instrumental, great guitarsolo towards the end, a lengthy tune) and closing track Spot on the sun (a heavier tune, most proggy tune on the album). Concluded, a good portion of melodic rock here when Phil sings, with some paths leading to light prog and new age when it all goes into the instrumental breaks. Check it out for yourself at: https://www.reverbnation.com/forestfield and http://www.forestfield.nl/
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Amanda Rheaume 'Keep a fire' (Independent/Hemifran)
Singer-songwriter Amanda Rheaume is from Ottawa, Canada and Keep a fire is her 4th release. She is a Métis, which is a so-called Canadian aboriginal, while musically she offers the typical classic northern American mix of folk, country, pop, with catchy radio-ready melodies and Amanda’s superb vocals make the melodies sound as good as major “new country” stars like Juice Newton and Ilse De Lange, although the music itself is more in the folk direction, although there's even a touch of Heather Nova here and there. The best songs on this new album of Amanda are Home On the Road (uptempo piece), Ancient Rime (semi ballad) and the Irish folksy (with pop melody) midtempo rocker Not This Time. Amanda is a gifted singer/songwriter with a beautiful sound that will appeal to fans of country, folk and pop, so hopefully she will make it bigger and is able to come over to Europe for a tour soon, because she has got all it takes to become the next big artist from the north American continent. Meanwhile, check her out asap at: http://www.amandarheaume.com/
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Jack Tempchin 'Room to run' (Blue Elan Records/Hemifran)
Room to run is an EP by Californian singer/songwriter
Jack Tempchin, who is known for penning countless tunes for a variety of
artists that includes the Eagles, George Jones, Glenn Frey, Randy Meisner, Glen
Campbell, Emmylou Harris, Trisha Yearwood and many others. Now solo, he is
working on a full-length record, but before that debut album release this EP
with 4 songs is released. Musically speaking we are heading into typical
American folk/pop/Americana tradition, of which the best song is Jesus and Mohammed,
a Bruce Springsteen kinda tune. However, it’s best to wait for that first
full-length, because that might be a surprise, as Jack is a great performer
himself besides writing songs and hits for many of America’s greatest artists
the past 40 years. Check him out at: www.Tempchin.com and http://twitter.com/jacktempchin(Twitter)
and https://soundcloud.com/blueelan/sets/room-to-run-previews/s-umc3d(SoundCloud) and http://PeacefulEasyFeeling.com/
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Kim Erickson 'The raven's wing' (Route 61 Music+/Hemifran)
Out of Canada comes Kim Erickson, a singer/songwriter with a celtic kinda sound that feels like she is from Scotland or Ireland. Although the album she released is beautiful, after a while the peaceful music becomes a little monotone, not in a bad way, but this is one of those albums you need to listen to in a certain mood or in a certain surrounding. Quality music for sure and besides the slightly celtic folksound, there’s also some jazz and a lot of classical music influences to be heard. Definitely an album you need to listen to a few times before making up a good judgement. Anyway, check it out for yourself at: www.kimerickson.com
(Points: 7.5 out of 10)
The Dawes ‘All your favorite bands’ (Hub
Records/Q Prime/UK Import)
All your favorite bands is already the 4th album of
the Los Angeles based band The Dawes. This band is formed around the brothers
Taylor (guitars and vocals) and Griffin Goldsmith (drums), along with Wylie
Gelber (bass) and Tay Strathairn (keyboards). Together they have created a
sensational album that combines elements of classic traditional folk rock,
Californian westcoast and some slight Southern Rock here and there. The result
is a beautiful album that focuses on haunting melodies and perfectly
streamlined harmonyvocals, all in the American tradition. The band has worked
with Jonathan Wilson and Wilco in the past, both also known for their
traditional American music style and without a doubt, we can compare The Dawes
musically speaking to them, but also acts like Jackson Browne, Poco, Little
River Band, CSN&Y, Player, The Eagles, The War On Drugs, Calexio, etc. come
to mind while listening. These guys are doing it at an incredible high level,
so make sure to check out their latest effort asap in case you haven’t heard of
them before. 9 songs are included and one of the absolute highlights is the
fantastic I Can’t Think About It Now, a haunting tune that starts calm in a
classic westcoast direction and evolves into a semi rocking tune with
guitarsolo’s in a traditional Southern rockstyle, while keeping all the
melodies intact and making you scream that they never stop playing. Anyway,
this is one of those records you keep on playing, because it is that good and
if only the mass media would accept that there are enough bands out there
playing real music, wouldn’t the world be a better place to live instead of the
computer/mobile phone programmed robotic music that is currently being played
non-stop on the radio. Do not miss this band at: www.dawestheband.com
as they are one of the latest discoveries of new upcoming high quality bands
from the USA!
(Points: 8.8 out of 10)
Joe Matera 'Louder than words' (W.A.R
Productions)
Out of Australia comes Joe Matera, a
singer/songwriter/guitarist who played in the bands Geisha and Double Vision,
but he also contributed guitar to a number of various projects and worked with
legendary US producer Tom Werman (Motley Crue, Cheap Trick, Poison). Anyway, he
started releasing solo-records from 2010 onwards and played guitar live on
stage with the legendary Steve Harley. Besides that, he was also a music
journalist between 1999 and 2011, interviewing members of major acts like
Aerosmith, Metallica, Guns & Roses, Thin Lizzy, Foo Fighters, Kiss, Motley
Crue, Iron Maiden, Steely Dan, Roxy Music, The Doors, Bon Jovi, Black Sabbath,
Def Leppard, Motorhead, Judas Priest, Cheap Trick, Queen, Nickelback, Alice
Cooper, Slayer, Foreigner, Blondie, Yes, HIM, The Shadows, John Mayer and many,
many others. All together a very active person, who now in 2015 he releases his
5th CD Louder Than Words. He toured Europe to promote it (it was his 3rd
European tour and his 2nd tour of The Netherlands) and basically this album is
a nice diverse record that pretty much sums up all his experiences from the
past. The album is a mix of instrumentals and vocal tracks and if we run
through the tracklisting, we can find 9 tracks, starting with the short intro
Intro IV, followed by Louder Than Words, which is a sorta semi midtempo rocker,
basically a very melodic tune that has a slight progressive rock touch, somehow
reminding me of King’s X/Jellyfish ish melodic rock, with a slight alternative
touch as well, with somehow an early 1990s vibe, overall this song has a strong
sound that is catchy and offers really good vocalwork. Up next is a great
instrumental melodic rocker titled Guilty Pleasures. Feel Your Love is a nice
well-thought melodic rocker with great guitarwork, showing a 1970s vibe with a
melodic powerpop chorus. Next instrumental track is Hands of Time, while Days
Gone By is a college rocker with 1990s touch, reminding of Jellyfish. Playing
with Fire is one of the strongest instrumental tracks here, basically melodic
rock ish. The least interesting track is the Ace Frehley kinda rocker Movin'
On. Closing track is an 80s semi power ballad version of the titletrack Louder
Than Words, which was already on the CD in a rockier version. Concluded, this
is a damn fine record, diverse and offering very interesting material from a
talented musician, of whom we are definitely going to hear much more in the
future. Meanwhile check him out at: www.joematera.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Jack Tempchin 'Learning to dance' (Blue Elan
Records/Hemifran)
Recently we reviewed the EP of this talented musician,
now singer/songwriter Jack Tempchin is delivering a full album and I am pleased
to inform that it sounds really strong. The man has worked with a lot of acts
in the past, such as The Eagles, George Jones, Glenn Frey (You Belong To the
City), Randy Meisner, Glen Campbell, Emmylou Harris, Trisha Yearwood and many
others. Now it's time to launch a solo career and with Learning to dance, he
can be proud of his achievement. Jack is a great singer himself as well and
musically we get to hear modest pop/rock, sounding laid-back, with here and
there a touch of westcoast and just a little AOR, all not too far removed from
the sounds of the acts he worked with in the past, yet also reminding me of
Mark Spiro sometimes, especially during the lovely calmer aor/westcoast opener
Learning To Dance. Other highlights are Love's First Lesson (bombastic piece,
orchestral), The End of the Affair (acoustic and beautiful) and closing track
Room To Run (AOR/poprock). Great decision to start up a solo career, because
Learning to dance deserves a highly recommendation to everyone who likes
traditional quality pop/rock music with strong vocals and memorable melodies.
If it was the 1970s, Jack would have been huge and on a major label, nowadays
it is just hoping for a bit of luck and a good network. If you are really a
dedicated music fan who explores the internet and clicks on links via spotify,
and you have not heard about Jack yet, then no longer wait and go to: http://jacktempchin.com/about/
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Hemming 'Hemming' (Custard Media/Sideways Media/USA
Import)
Hemming is an act formed around Candice Martello, who
is an acoustic singer-songwriter hailing from Philadelphia. She is a very
talented musician and despite she was in a 2-man's punk band (Omar) before, she
is now in a one-man's band doing her own thing, which clearly works when
listening to her same titled debut album. The music is typical female fronted
modern pop/rock, not unlike Florence and the Machine, Haim and Metric, but on
the other hand also with an own identity, even reminding here and there of
Patti Smith. Some of the songs sound dangerously close to Sinead O'Connor as
well, just listen to the album's best songs Hard on Myself, Some of My Friends,
Give It Away and Gone. Candice became known through her participation of VH1’s ‘Make
or Break : The Linda Perry Project, a show hosted by the legendary Linda Perry.
Now with this awesome first solo record out, she is destined to become bigger
and she can do it on her own, with the help of her manager Nick Fanelli. Go
check her out at: www.hemmingmusic.com
and www.facebook.com/hemmingmusic
and www.twitter.com/hemmingmusic
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Grand Old Grizzly 'Cosmonada'
(Independent/Hemifran)
Out of Houston, Texas comes Grand Old Grizzly, a band
formed around Will Thomas (vocals/guitar), Paul Beebe (guitar/vocals), Mark
Riddell (bass/vocals) and Chris Lewis (drums). Although they are described as
alternative country, there is much more to explore here. The band rocks quite
hard every now and then, while it all sounds pretty good actually. I would
rather describe their sound as alternative rock mixed with a lot of retro
pop/rock influences, sounding like a cross between Dire straits and REM, with
Neil Young ish vocals. The best songs are Indecision (semi ballad, midtempo),
Morning faster (uptempo rocker a la The Knack), Tallahassee (lovely westcoast
tune, close harmony vocals and a rather catchy chorus), Marvelistic Coward Band
(nice semi ballad) and Lament (uptempo alternative powerpop like Golden Earring
meets REM meets Dire Straits). Overall an interesting band, because there is
even some rockabilly to be heard in songs like I Was Thinkin', Approaching Cars
and Desperate Times that sounds like Stray Cats and Pretty Little Head is pure
bluegrass. Alternative country is not a good way to describe this band's sound,
because Grand Old Grizzly mix up all kinds of influences (altrock, college
rock, powerpop and even rockabilly and bluegrass). It is clearly a debut album,
where the band is looking for the right sound and I think we need to watch out
for them in the future, although not only soundwise, also vocally some improvements
need to happen on a future record. In the meantime, check them out at: www.Grandoldgrizzly.com
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Telergy 'Hypatia' (Independent/USA Import)
The American multi-instrumentalist/composer/producer
Robert McClung formed his own project Telergy in 2009 with the purpose of
uniting many great musicians from around the world, across many genres, to
create unique and powerful music. That is what is mentioned on his website and
I already reviewed some of his work in the past and those albums featured
indeed a lot of well-known musicians from bands like Pink Floyd, Toto,
Supertramp, Yes, Living Colour, Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Porcupine
Tree, Queensrӱche,
Symphony X, Rhapsody of Fire, Spock's Beard, Hawkwind, Magellan, etc.
Basically, some of the best of all legendary progbands are working with Robert
on his Telergy albums, so there is no doubt about it that this is of a very
high level musically speaking. Now a new album of Telergy titled Hypatia is
released and once again we can hear incredible high quality instrumental
progressive rock in the style of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Spock Beard,
Magellan, Pink Floyd, Genesis, King Crimson, Tempest and such. Robert himself
is a gifted musician and anyone who likes prog should check out this project
at: www.telergymusic.com
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
The Migrant 'Flood' (Devil Duck Records/DGR
Music)
Flood is the 4th album of the Copenhagen based The
Migrant. The band is formed around Bjarke Bendtsen: vocals, guitar, percussion,
Mads Hartmann: lead guitar, backing vocals, organ,
Jakob Lademann: drums, Kristian Lademann: bass, percussion and Aske Fuglsang:
mandola, percussion. Musically speaking The Migrant is not too far removed from
the typical modern day pop/rock style that should be described as relaxing
melodic indie pop style of Arcade Fire, Bon Iver and especially Fleet Foxes,
while vocally speaking it has a late 1970s psychedelic era approach, with even
sometimes memories of Teenage Fanclub. All together, it might not be that
original, the result is surprisingly really great, with as highlights Climbers
(Fleet Foxes ish), The Fixer (Mumford and Sons meets Teenage Fanclub) and Belly
of a Man (Temples style). Although a lot of the songs are slower tempo based
and sounding quite dark actually (The Doors with an Indie pop sound), the band
also offers more uptempo friendlier tracks such as Water and Tiger, which are also
very good strong tunes that make a good contrast with the somewhat darker
material, because after a while it gets a little boring when The Migrant goes
into a constant slow-tempo mode. It's best to check out this band for yourself,
but I feel that with a slightly more uptempo approach, The Migrant might become
bigger in the future. Check them out at: http://themigrant.net
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Debbie Hennessey 'No longer broken' (Rustic
Heart records/USA Import)
Call it what you want, the 3rd CD of Los Angeles-based
singer/songwriter Debbie Hennessey offers typical American pop/rock like only
the Americans can create it. Some call it country pop, others westcoast and if
you are really into American music, just call it typical American radio-ready
melodic pop/rock with an aor approach or simply titled MOR, perhaps even
contemporary pop/rock is a good description. There is a clear 1970s touch
during the calmer singer/songwriter poptunes, while during the rockier moments
the 1980s are passing by. The typical American aor/westcoast-pop material
sounds like a cross between Robin Beck, Lenita Erickson, Alannah Myles and
Bonnie Raitt. The songs are catchy and most importantly, it is done at a
professional high level, which is necessary to make an impact in the music
business, especially in the USA. In Europe, this kind of music has always faced
hard times, but if Ilse De Lange makes it big, then why not Debbie Hennessey.
Going through the tracklisting, interesting tunes are Every Song Is You (lovely
midtempo AOR for all the fans of Fiona, Robin Beck, etc), No Longer Broken
(great midtempo AOR), the calmer ballads Sugar and rain (AOR ish) and Let me go
(bit weaker), You Can't Unpull a Trigger (southern ish bluesy rocker), Right
for Right Now (great midtempo AOR), I'm Leaving the Fairytale Behind (nice semi
ballad) and closing track Woman, a nice calm acoustic tingled duet with a
wonderful guest singer called Lexie Hofer. Without a doubt, a high quality
release that might just as well be checked by fans of let's say again Ilse De
Lange, as musically speaking it is dangerously close sometimes, yet comparisons
to the other mentioned artists are also notable. Check her out at: http://www.debbiehennessey.com
and http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/DebbieHennessey
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Robert Forster 'Songs to play' (Tapete
Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Former Go-Betweens singer releases his 2nd album Songs
To Play, 7 years after his solo-debut. The Australian singer/songwriter offers
a sorta alternative singer/songwriter sound that has a humoristic folkish
approach here and there, mostly calm music with low pitched vocals and sounding
a bit depressive, but also quite interesting. Basically this is quality stuff
that should be checked out by fans of let's say Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen and
Bob Dylan, although vocally of course Robert has his own unique vibrato.
Anyway, Robert has a very long history in the music business, which started in
the 1970s, when he formed the Go-Betweens with bandmate Grant McLennan, became
very successful with this indie poprock band during the 1980s, but it all ended
when Grant died in 2006. Now almost 10 years later, Robert is slowly building
up his solo career, with now this new album that has it's highlights in the
songs Learn to Burn, I'm So Happy for You and Disaster in Motion. Recommended
to fans of mentioned singer/songwriters and of course people who followed
Robert's career the past 35 years and are wondering what he is up to now, just
go to: www.robertforster.com
(Points: 7.9 out of 10)
Downpilot 'Radio Ghost' (Tapete Records/Sonic
Rendezvous)
The Californian Paul Hiraga is a multi-instrumentalist
who basically does everything on his own, just like Tame Impala's Kevin Parker,
but live on stage that is likewise impossible. Anyway, musically speaking his
debut album Radio ghost under the bandname Downpilot is a clear 1970s
orientated record, which reminds a bit of Tame Impale, but in fact there is
much more to be heard here. I would rather describe Downpilot as a sorta
relaxing semi-prog sounding act with singer/songwriter and indie pop influences,
like the Tame Impale melancholic pop with a classic vintage drumsound that
sounds very rhythmic and makes me compare this to Crowded House as well. This
is definitely great stuff and high quality material what we get to hear, with
as highlights Radio ghost (strong vocalwork, even a bit Sting/REM/Jeff
Buckley), Reno (great calmer melancholic melodic pop of very high level Peter
Gabriel ish somehow), Day of the long sun (Crowded House similarities),
Hallowed ground (great melancholic tune as well, once again reminding me of
Crowded House), My paper sons (lovely prog sorta tune a la Jonathan Wilson) and
The collector (atmospheric and exciting, almost John Grant sounding tune, with
only keys/piano as instruments). The only remark could be that the album could
use some uptempo tunes, but overall, this is high level atmospheric music that
fits somewhere between calm modest prog, 70s singer/songwriter and indie.
Recommended to fans of mentioned acts, more at: www.downpilot.com
(Points: 8.5 out of 10)
Me The Tiger 'Vitriolic' (Independent/Hemifran)
Electro poprock, 1980s orientated (New Order/Depeche
Mode) with a modern approach and a slightly annoying monotone disco drumbeat,
but nevertheless very catchy and radio-ready, that is what this is all about.
Me The Tiger was formed in Sweden in 2012 and Vitriolic is their 2nd album so
far. The line-up consists of Gabriella Åström – Vocals, Tobias Andersson –
Synth, guitar, programming and Jonas Martinsson – Drums, programming and basically
this album is what I would consider Swedish radio ready, big sounding
Eurovision songcontest anthem orientated disco pop/rock with good vocalwork,
but as already mentioned, real drums would have been preferable. For the
absolute die-hard fans of classic 80s Device and Animotion, this me The Tiger
must be checked out as well, although fans of the more modern way of thinking
(Metric, Haim...) can also easily grab this one. Highlights are As We Really
Are, What Promises Are Worth and Heartbeats, but after a few songs you'll get
the picture, know the Swedish trick and either love or hate this rather
commercial act. Yes, it is good and it is very pleasant for the ears, but I
feel it can all be done a little bit less safer than it is now, because there also
isn't too much diversity. I think a follow-up will tell us more if this band
can experiment more or go for an even more commercial direction. More at: www.methetiger.se
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
And The Golden Choir 'Another Half Life'
(Independent/Sonic Rendezvous)
Austrian composer/multi-instrumentalist and vinyl
collector Tobias Siebert is basically the man behind And The Golden Choir, a
project which musically speaking is tapping out of various genres. Comparisons
are made to Antony And The Johnsons and PJ Harvey, but actually I heard much
more while listening to his latest effort Another Half Life. Tobias works as a
producer for German bands like Me And My Drummer, Phillip Boa, Enno Bunger,
Slut and many more... His new solo album has some interesting material on
offer, such as can be heard in a song like Choose to Lose, which is a beautiful
midtempo semi prog/indie tune that somehow has an own style, catchy with high
pitched vocals. Actually to me it sounds like a cross between John Grant and
Alan Parsons Project (especially during the song Angelina), so there's a slight
70s symphonic touch to be heard here. Also Radiohead comes to mind during a
couple of songs, so there's a nice original sound on this album. Quite a
surprise this album, so go check it out for yourself at: http://andthegoldenchoir.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Mitchell Thomas 'Air plain' (Mastermind
productions/USA Import)
World Music is perhaps the best description of Air
plain, the 2nd album of the talented Californian guitarist, composer,
saxophone, cello, piano, banjo, bass, and dobro player(!), producer,
multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and private instructor Mitchell Thomas. He
started at a young age learning and playing instruments, including travelling
to Gambia in West Africa to learn the kora, a 21 string harp-lute, and southern
Spain to learn flamenco guitar. Now he is a well educated highly professional
musician releasing an album that musically is very diverse and a melting pot of
all kinds of genres. It does not always work well, because the rapping in About
These Things is not really interesting and you might have to get used to the
low pitched vocals of Mitchell. However, some of the songs are definitely very
interesting to listen to, such as Adam and Eve (Steely Dan/Donald Fagan ish
jazz fusion westcoast pop), the Brazilian influences in Triste (with female
guest singer), the instrumental Air Plain and the harmonyvocal driven The World
Is Cold (Bye Polar). James Taylor meets Steely Dan while travelling throughout
the world, that is a nice description of Mitchell Thomas. Make sure to check it
out if you're starting to become interested at: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mitchellthomas2
and
http://www.mitchellthomasmusic.com/
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Blank Realm 'Illegals in heaven' (Fire
Records/UK Import)
Out of Brisbane, Australia comes Blank Realm, a band
formed around siblings Daniel Spencer (drums & vocal) Sarah Spencer (synth
& vocal) and Luke Spencer (bass), with the addition of Luke Walsh (lead
guitar, production). Illegals in heaven is their 2nd album so far and basically
this band has an underground sound, which moves somewhere between punk, new
wave and 80s goth/altrock. The Cure is definitely the best comparison we can
make here. A quick run through the tracklisting; No Views is an aggressive
uptempo punky rocker, followed by River of Longing (a melodic catchy poprocker
a la The Jam and The Undertones), Cruel Night (calmer midtempo tune),
Costume Drama (another melodic catchy poprocker),
Dream Date (calmer indie beat), Flowers In Mind (1980s Joy Division ish new
wave poprocker, great tune!), Gold (great female vocals, a haunting semi
ballad, 1990s style), Palace of Love (catchy uptempo 80s altrocker) and closing
track Too Late Now (dark tune, very close to The Cure!). Basically a very
diverse record, one for the cult/underground movement (a typical Rotown kinda
band!) and recommended to those who do not want any commercial sounds.
Especially The Cure fans will like this! More at: http://blankrealm.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Einfach Kurt 'Moths' (Kroese Records/DGR Music)
The Dutch band Einfach Kurt is hard to describe as
they have their own sound, which is very dark, but quite interesting
nevertheless. On their debut album Moths we can hear psychedelic progrock
during a song like I come undone, while the band sounds very melancholic during
opener Push where it hurts that almost sounds like Tom Waits. This is
definitely a strong original band with an own sound and that means that we
finally hear something else than the typical "Dutch-wanna-be British happy
new wave ish band". The band does have its happy moments, such as during
the dut-dut keyboard driven In my cage, a song which has a sorta late 1960s
Beatles touch with a Boomtown Rats chorus. This is such a diverse record,
because you can also find acoustic tingled pieces that do not sound bad at all,
while Postpone is a good semi rocker and finally, the titletrack is a beautiful
calm acoustic piece with guest female vocals. They might grow bigger and for
now the music press will love them, for the future nobody can tell, but Einfach
Kurt is just as original as their band name. More at: http://www.einfachkurt.nl
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Rah Rah 'Vessels' (DevilDuck Records/DGR Music)
Rah Rah comes out of Saskatchewan, Canada, are formed
around Erin Passmore - Drums/Vocals/Keyboard/Bass, Marshall Burns -
Guitar/Vocals, Joel Passmore - Bass/Vocals, Kristina Hedlund - Violin/Accordion/Keyboard/Vocals,
Jeffrey Romanyk - Drums/Keyboard/Guitar and Vanessa Benson -
Keyboards/Vocals/Bass and together they have delivered a great new record
titled Vessels, which is their 4th so far. The band comes out of a region that
has probably the coldest and longest winters in the world, which can lyrically
also be heard here and there. The music is very 1980s orientated, synth driven
powerpop with an indie touch, kinda typical Canadian. While we walk through the
CD it starts with Be Your Man, a catchy uptempo power poprocker, modern and
typical catchy radio-ready, 100% melodic and with a memorable chorus that
completely sticks in your head after you hear it. A song that basically
everyone will love, a definite crowd pleaser and throw-back 1980 for sure!
Followed by Chip off the Heart (another catchy uptempo powerpop tune, close to
classic Blondie actually!), A Love That Sticks (weaker chorus), Fix Me (female
vocals again, catchy poprocker like Shanghai and Spider, classic early 80s,
great tune actually!), Wolf Eyes (catchy uptempo powerpop a la Blondie, very
early Kim Wilde, a super radio ready tune!), The First Night We Met (another
catchy tune), All I Got Is Today (slightly weaker), and closing tracks Surgery
and In Space (both once again catchy uptempo powerpop a la classic Blondie).
This band could become huge, although nothing original is happening, but the
job is done correctly and some of the songs are clear hits in the making. Play
it a couple of times on the radio and it will turn out to become radio staple
hits. The share of female and male vocals is appreciated, although the female
vocals are slightly preferable. The music is a bit repetitive sometimes, but
the quirky powerpop is an enjoyable listen, so go check them out at: www.rahrahband.com
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Neal
Storme and the Band of Amazing Friends 'Ay B Si' (Independent/USA Import)
Out
of Washington comes Neal Storme, a very talented musician, who is the son of
the legendary Tammy Wynette and he has been in the music business for quite a
few decades now. However, he has mainly been active as a producer and manager
of all kinds of events throughout the USA, but also was a street musician for
many years, so therefore it took some time before he would actually release
something on his own. Now he released a full length album, with the help of a
whole list of guest musiciains and I must say it is a very impressive records.
Completely in the all-American heartland rock/aor style of the classic 1970s /
early 1980s, with bluesy licks, soulful vocals and AOR choruses, sounding like
Benny Mardones meets John Melllencamp meets Michael Stanley Band, with strong
raw vocalwork a la Bruce Springsteen (also musicsally of course, because Bruce
is after all the king of this genre!). Here and there I can also comparisons to
Warren Hayes, but most of the 13 songs go directly in the classic heartland
rock style. The best songs are the uptempo rockers Hand Me Down World, You Are
Not Alone (AORish), Draw the Line (Heartland Rock, Bruce Springsteen meets
Michael Stanley, with a lovely guitarsolo), Everybody Knows (nice Leonard Cohen
cover) and Papa don't think he'll make it (strong lyrics!). Definitely a big
surprise this album and highly recommended to fans of mentioned heartland
rockacts! More info at: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/nealstormeandthebandofam
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Luke
Potter 'So sugar' (Independent/UK Import)
Out
of the UK comes singer/songwriter Luke Potter, who is a very young musician and
makes you musically go into a teenage melodic uptempo highschool poprock
direction which in the past would be linked to Chesney Hawkes, The Cars, Rick
Springfield and Craig McClachan, but nowadays will probably be mentioned
alongside his influences of The Goo Goo Dolls, Jimmy Eat World and such,
although I do miss some rock moments. It all sounds very safe and friendly,
perfectly radio-ready produced with enough hit potency (So sugar, Sadie and
There it goes again). Luke is able to sing quite well, but this can mainly be
heard during the slower material, such as the ballad Crazy enough and Terrified.
Anyway, it all sounds very professional and with his young looks and catchy tunes,
Luke is definitely able to become the next big star in the popworld. Nothing
new here and very commercial sounding, but without a doubt, radio will eat this
alive! Check him out at: http://www.lukepottermusic.com/
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
The Whiskey Charmers 'The Whiskey Charmers'
(Independent/USA Import)
Now here we have a sensational debut album release from a Detroit based duo called The Whiskey Charmers. Formed around Carrie Shepard and Lawrence Daversa, The Whiskey Charmers offer typical American music that sounds relaxed, melodic and still rocks enough to keep things uptempo and attractive enough until the end of the album. Joined by Brian Ferriby on drums and David Roof on bass, their debut release contains 9 great songs of a super high quality. Calexico, Chris Isaak, Chrissy Hynde, The Pretenders, Fleetwood Mac, War On Drugs… put it somewhere in between those acts, so Americana, bluesy, folky, melodic poprock ish, a flirt country and all the American traditional sounds are present here. Highlights are Elevator (with a shuffle, this is a lovely Americana tune with excellent female vocals, beautiful melodies, nice guitarwork, basically the typical American sound!), Straight & Narrow (calmer, americana once again, really wonderful, featuring laid-back subtle guitarwork), Vampire and Can't leave (both slightly rocking, beautiful guitarwork) and Sidewinder (starts calm balladry, but develops into a midtempo direction, lovely melodic tune!). A surprisingly great album we have here and for a debut a highly recommended start for this amazing duo. More info at: www.thewhiskeycharmers.com
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Georgie Jessup 'Philosopher Dogs' (Independent/Hemifran)
Interesting American singer-songwriter, with a diverse sound on her 6th CD Philosopher dogs, which is a mixture of Americana, Country, Blues, Folk and much more. Georgie Jessup also happens to be a longtime advocate for indigenous peoples' rights, political prisoners, and transgendered people and musically speaking she offers some great high quality music with beautiful singing. There’s a male/female vocal share hearable sometimes, which makes it even sound a bit like The Common Linnets. The album sounds best when going for a nice laid-back country meets westcoast style like Alabama meets Venice meets Poco, with as highlights Philosopher Dogs (uptempo melodic piece rocking), Geronimo's Bones (semi ballad with bluesy guitar), Lost Paradise, Red Cloud's Room and Ring of fire (Johnny Cash cover). Go check it out for yourself at: http://www.georgiejessup.com and www.facebook.com/georgiejessupmusic and www.cdbaby.com/Artist/GeorgieJessup
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Smokin' Silvertones 'Windows on a train' (Independent/Hemifran)
The Smokin’ Silvertones are a band from Illinois playing nice typical American southern rock, with an Americana and a bluesy approach as well here and there. Windows on a train is their 5th album and all together it sounds like a great mixture between The Grateful Dead, Blue Oyster Cult and Eric Clapton. Highlights are Stealin' Thunder and Everywhere I Go (both uptempo melodic pieces, like BCO meets Thunder - the old band that released Headphones for cows). There’s even some aor/westcoast influences, although the vocals are not superstrong, but fans of let's say especially Doc Holiday will like this band a lot. The harmonies are very nice and give it a Poco/Eagles/Venice feeling as well. Also check out nice rockers like Here We Go Again and Can't Control, while titlesong Window On A Train is a great Eric Clapton ish semi ballad, which sounds very melodic and has a nice Hammond. As mentioned, also The Grateful Dead comes to mind and in the end, you’ll get the picture that this is a typical American sounding band, which you can check out at: www.smokinsilvertones.com
(Points: 7.7 out of 10)
Flip Damon ' Starry eyed love' (Independent/USA Import)
Out of Virginia, USA comes singer/songwriter Flip Damon, who has a very 1970s orientated laid-back popsound, with a westcoast touch, but overall his album Starry eyed love has a very independent sound. Vocally not really strong and most of the time it has a sorta Christopher Cross kinda vibe, with a nice mixture of ballads and uptempo pieces. Beach Boys influences can also be heard in especially opener All I Want. It’s best to check out this album yourself, as it might sound a little bit too dated for some of you, while on the other hand fans of Christopher Cross and Robbie Dupree will perhaps like it quite a lot! More at: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/flipdamon
(Points: 6.6 out of 10)
The Magic Lightnin' Boys 'The Magic Lightnin' Boys' (Bottled Lightnin' Records/Head First Entertainment)
The Magic Lightnin’ Boys are from Cincinnati and on their same titled debut CD they present us a sensational sound. Hardrock, groovy funkrock and bluesy guitar licks are combined to a soulful swinging sound. The band has a fantastic singer in their line-up (Casey Gomez) and it’s their combination of very strong groovy bluesy rock and even a bit funky tunes like Living Color in a song like Mind Funk, that makes them such a great and highly recommended band. It’s a pity that this is just a mini-CD consisting of 7 tracks, but with a lot of great bluesy rockers like Broken Dream, Gone and Devil’s Lettuce and a soulful ballad like Couples Skate that all feature fantastic vocals, this is a band to check out asap. They kinda remind me of Vintage Trouble, so I guess then you will understand we are talking about an interesting band here. More at: http://www.magiclightninboys.com
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
Vly 'I’ (Laser's Edge/Hard Life Promotion)
The band Vly is more or less an international band compromised of musicians from other bands. They consist of Keith Gladysz (Diet Kong, Typical Reptiles) – Vocals, Karl Demata (Crippled Black Phoenix, K.D. Band) - Guitars, synths, programming, Elisa Montaldo (Il Tempio Delle Clessidre) - keyboards and synths, Chris Heilmann (Crippled Black Phoenix, Bernie Torme', Shark Island) – Bass and Mattias Olsson (Änglagård. White Willow, Necromonkey) - Drums & keyboards. Their debut is titled I and it mixes all kinds of influences, making them standout between all the other bands, because they have got a sorta unique sound. Especially 1970s influences can be heard, but also a lot of prog elements from the 1990s era are notable. Most of the songs are slowtempo based, melancholic, calm proggy/post-prog based that somehow has David Bowie ish vocals (Ziggy Stardust period), Beatles ish harmonyvocals and we can musically hear clear similarities to Steven Wilson/Porcupine Tree/Riverside. The first 2 songs Circles and Time are calmer 70s prog based with Beatles influences, while Time elapsed is basically pure Marillion modern style sounding, but also is reminding me of Peter Gabriel, all together a great semi progrocker. And so the album continues in this style, although we are surprised as well here and there, because for example Out of the maze is suddenly different, because this is an uptempo piece with Ozzy ish vocals, featuring a great chorus and basically being a melodic heavy rocker. There is diversity going on here that makes Vly a highly recommended band when you are interested in being surprised, because that is what they are doing on their debut album. A real grower and a high quality release! More info at: http://www.vlymusic.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Defekt Defekt 'Defekt Defekt' (High Noon Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
With the band Defekt Defekt it is 1977 all over again, although sometimes they sound a little experimental as well. They hail from Germany and are based around Andreas Wolfinger: Voc, Guit, Bass, Tim Shapland: Voc, Guit, Bass and Benno Patzer: Drums. The trio is as mentioned very British Punk based, but also the post-punk/experimental direction of the early 80s is notable. Songs like War and industry are aggressive dark punk rockerers, while Machine and Stitches are classic late 70s melodic punkrockers, straight ahead catchy tunes and real crowd pleasers, with good guitarwork as well. Experimental and aggressive are then again songs like Plastique and Koktel, but more melodic punkrock can be heard during Insomnia and Ready again. Deleted is a real crowd pleaser, a bit modern rocker style, while the final 2 songs are even a bit Oi! Ish, with closing track Uniforms being a Sham 69 type classic punkrocker. Recommended to fans of the late 70s/early 80s punkrock and experimental post-punk movement from 35 years ago. More at: http://www.defektdefekt.com
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Laura Stevenson 'Cocksure' (Don Giovanni Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Cocksure is the new album of New York based singer/songwriter Laura Stevenson. She is said to be influenced by Liz Phair, The Replacements and The Lemonheads, but we can hear more similarities. The songs on her album are rather short, but overall it is a very diverse record and sounding pretty good actually. Vocally it reminds me of Belinda Carlisle meets The Bangles’ Susanna Hoffs. Musically speaking it is 80s meets 90s alternative rock based, sounding like The Pretenders meets Stevie Nicks meets Patti Smith. It is already her 4th record, so she has been in the music business for quite a while now. The album features musicians Mike Campbell, Alex Billig and Peter Naddeo, and was mixed and mastered by Jack Shirley (Joyce Manor, Deafheaven, Tony Molina) at Atomic Garden Studios in Palo Alto, California. If we run through the tracklisting, it starts with Out With a Whimper (slowtempo alternative rocker), followed by Torch Song (early 80s catchy poprocker like Patti Smith meets Pretenders meets Pat Benatar, bit quirky, but classic guitar rock and roll riff here, basically a great tune!!!!!!!!), Jellyfish (catchy uptempo rocker), Ticker Tape (slowtempo calm), Emily in Half (nice catchy melodic poprocker, a little Heather Nova ish, Fleetwood Mac/Stevie Nicks as well, slight AOR touch!), Diet of Worms (nice slowtempo alternative rocker), Happier, Etc. (catchy punky faster uptempo rocker a la The Donnas), Fine Print (nice slowtempo), Claustrophobe (nice midtempo altrocker a la The Cranberries/Skunk Akansie), Life is Long (nice uptempo rocker, catchy a la The Bangles!!!!) and closing track is Tom Sawyer / You Know Where You Can Find Me (nice midtempo altrocker like Alannis Morisette). All together a very nice diverse album that rocks and worth checking out at: www.laurastevenson.com
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
Jonathan Kasper 'In the know'
(Independent/Hemifran)
Most surprising fact on this release is the appearance of 1980s AOR veteran Doug Kahan, who is involved on bass here and is best known for being a member of Flash Kahan, Adrenalin, DC Drive, PKM, Paul Thorn and countless other bands/projects as a session musician. On the album of singer/songwriter Jonathan Kasper, he plays bass and musically speaking it is not far removed from Doug’s 80s heydays. Jonathan himself was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, but eventually moved to Nashville, Tennessee where he built up a solo career, which now results in the release of In the know. It seems that Jonathan’s previous records were more jazz based, but with this new record it is all about melodic poprock. Besides Jonathan and Doug, the line-up consists of Jerry Kimbrough, guitars, Dann Sherrill, drums, Steve King on piano and keyboards, and assistance is by producers Joe "Guido" Welsh on guitar, percussion and keyboards and Dave Matthews on keyboards. Running through the tracklisting, it all starts with Wake Up Your Soul, which is a strong midtempo rocker with a sort of early 80s vibe, some powerpop/heartland-rock/aor style is hearable here. Followed by Lead Me to the Light (lovely catchy uptempo powerpop, classic early 80s style a la Dwight Twilley and Billy Branigan), In the Know (pure early 80s powerpop rock and roll a la Phil Seymour, The Knack, The Romantics), Done, Done Deal (uptempo powerpop), Feminist Girl (bit more quirky, even like The Who and The Kinks), Well, You Shouldn't Be Surprised (soulful tune, great!), And That Look in Your Eyes (Rolling Stones riff, great tune!), Back On Track (lovely midtempo AOR, very strong), My Old Friend, John (semi ballad), Little Picture (strong uptempo poprocker, with great vocal skills and a deadly catchy hook! AORish a la Michael Morales), Carrie (even more AORish, a la Rick Springfield), No Freedom Train (great guitarsolo, nice rocker) and the album closes with One Life (ok rocker). This is high quality stuff with a pure early 80s American Radio Powerpop style that also recalls so much the legendary band The Ravijns if anyone remember them, but also Tommy Tutone, The Romantics, The Knack fans will absolute love this. Check it out for yourself at: http://www.jonathankasper.com/
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
Rob Hegel 'Make it magical' (Red Lips Records/USA Import)
Californian musician Rob Hegel's latest CD Make it magical was produced by none-other than Robby Krieger (The Doors guitarist) and Harper Hug, while he has an amazing list of guest musicians appearing on the album. It features some of the recording industry's finest musicians, such as Robby Krieger of The Doors, Elliott Randall (played with Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, Carly Simon, Carl Wilson, Peter Wolf, Peter Frampton and rejected to form TOTO in the 1970s!!!), Doug Pettibone (played with Keith Richards, Norah Jones, Steve Earle, Elvis Costello, Joan Baez, Mark Knopfler, Draco Rosa, Sting, Michelle Shocked, Lisa Marie Presley and Lucinda Williams), Bob Glaub (a real veteran bassist who played with Journey, Steve Miller Band, John Fogerty, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ringo Starr, Dusty Springfield, Aaron Neville, Linda Ronstadt, Stevie Nicks, Jackson Browne, Warren Zevon, Donna Summer, John Lennon, Rod Stewart, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Bee Gees and many others), Mario Calire (LA-based drummer, celebrated for his long affiliations with The Wallflowers), Lee Thornburg (a trumpeter who has played with many artists and also has been a member of Supertramp and Tower of Power), Richard T Bear (legendary singer/songwriter) and Ronnie King. However, they are providing him the musical back-up he needs, because Rob himself is a gifted singer/songwriter with a really good voice and musically speaking this is typical American music, with very nice melodies. Basically a calm record that could use some more uptempo tunes and is clearly entering the world of 1970s singer songwriter in the style of Harry Nilsson, Jim Groce and The Beatlesish popmusic. Included songs are Love Is a Song (dut-dut keys and a trumpet, like Penny lane/Beatles style), Just as I Am (nice pop tune, semi ballad), Do You Ever Think of Me At All? (classic 70s westcoast), Make It Magical (ok 70s pop), Say You Love Me (70s sugarsweet popballad), Sanitarium (JJ cale ish 70s pop), I Belong to You Belong to Me (JJ cale ish 70s pop, British sound somehow), When You Wake Up in the Morning (60s/70s singer songwriter pop melodies), You Wonder (calmer pop tune like Steely Dan meets Randy Newman, 70s popstyle), Completely Nude (country twangle) and Something Is Going to Happen (westcoast The Eagles touch, a strong pop/rocker in 1970s style which develops into classic sing-a-long tune that could have been massive 40 years ago, Jim Groce meets Don McLean). Good time music that is recommended to fans of mentioned acts. More at: http://www.robhegel.com
(Points: 7.9 out of 10)
Selina Martin 'Selina Martin' (Independent/Hemifran)
You either love or hate this record, because the same titled new album
of Canadian based Selina Martin (her 4th I believe) is filled
with very modern based electronic hi-tech pop/rock with a big drumbeat and
hypnotic robotic future ish vocalwork. Dalbello in a modern age is what I would
call this album, with as best songs Hawaii, Galore and Wish list that contain
some really catchy melodies as well. Selina comes out of Toronto, is a highly
skilled composer/arranger/producer and multi-instrumentalist who already
contributed to numerous recordings (Rheostatics, Veda Hille, Bob Wiseman,
Justin Rutledge, N.Q. Arbuckle, Martin Tielli's The Ghost Of Danny Gross, Parts
1 & 2, etc.) and besides making music is also a gifted actor. The Spirit of
Radio (Rush) is one of the covers she has done in the past. Now her latest
album is available and especially Dalbello and Florence and the Machine fans
will absolutely love this record. Check out more at: http://www.selinamartin.com
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Solstice Coil 'Commute' (Taklit Music/Israel Import)
Commute is the new album of Israel based band Solstice Coil, whom
deliver a similar sounding album to their previously reviewed record A
prescription for paper cuts, which means a nice typical progressive rockalbum
that contains influences of Radiohead, King Crimson, 70s Genesis, Mars Volta,
Muse and Pink Floyd. They remind a lot of German progband Sylvan and highlights
on the new album are 4 (great melodies), 6 (lovely guitar solos, a very melodic
tune) and 7. Vocally it is not so strong, but overall, it is especially
instrumental of a very high level. Check it out for yourself at: http://www.solstice.co.il
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Tiffany
Huggins Grant 'Jonquil child' (Independent/Hemifran)
Out of Nashville comes singer-songwriter Tiffany
Huggins Grant, who worked on her 2nd album Jonquil child with
guitarist/producer Mark Robinson, drummer Paul Griffith (Emmylou Harris, Todd
Snider, Jason Isbell), bassist Thomas Grant (Jeff Orr, Matt Walberg), steel
guitar player John Heinrich (Hank Williams Jr., Merle Haggard, Reba McEntire)
and keyboardist Jen Gunderman (Sheryl Crow, Iris Dement, Caitlin Cary).
Together they created a traditional American music album that combines elements
of classic country, Americana and a little blues, recalling memories of Juice
Newton, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride, Rosanne Cash, Emmylou Harris, Loretta
Lynn, Bonnie Raitt and such. Most of the songs are slowtempo, balladry, with as
exception, the highlights You're Not Alone (uptempo tune), Ain't Nobody Leaves
This Place and Out My Window (both with a bluesy touch). Although it all sounds
pretty good, the musicianship is of a very high level, the somewhat monotone
vocals don't make this a classic I'm afraid. Nevertheless, fans of classic
American female fronted country/crossover/Americana might want to check this
out at: http://www.tiffanyhugginsgrantmusic.com
(Points:
7.5 out of 10)
Elizabeth
MacInnis 'Sensitive guy' (Independent/Hemifran)
Sadly only 1 tune included here, although the song
itself, Sensitive guy is a beautiful soulful duet between Elizabeth MacInnis
and Mark Flores, a rather catchy pop tune, westcoast flavored as well.
Elizabeth however did release her full-length debut solo album One Eye On The
Highway with famed Los Angeles, California producer Billy Sherwood (Toto / YES)
a few years ago, so hopefully we will be able to review that soon, to get a
better idea of this talented singer/songwriter. Meanwhile, check her out at: www.elizabethmacinnis.com
(Points:
8.0 out of 10)
Billy
Thang 'Old school thang' (Independent/Hemifran)
Now here we have a classic heavy bluesrock record
with awesome guitarwork, basically in the old school style of BB King, Stevie
Ray Vaughan and John Lee Hooker, but perhaps a little heavier. She's Gone, Old
School Thang, Evil, Slick 'n Sly and Rita are songs that sound exactly the way
a bluesrockfan wants to hear it. It is deep down from the soul kinda blues,
with in addition to the classic guitarsound some horns and keys. Billy delivers
a great job here and although he has been active already for quite a while now,
this album should be heard by all bluesfans out there. More at: http://www.billyhector.com
(Points:
8.2 out of 10)
David
Massey 'Until the day is done' (Independent/Hemifran)
Until the day is done is the 3rd album of the
Washington based musician David Massey, who delivers a great piece of work
here. During the week David is working as a lawyer, but secretly he is an
amazing singer/songwriter. His new album contains a great mixture of uptempo
and calmer tunes, all sounding very melodic and quite catchy actually. It is
also a diverse album, although overall it is relaxing music in the American
traditional pop/rock style, yet it features a westcoast flirt, some country and
even a touch of bluegrass. The Westcoast Poco ish Ride with You, the uptempo
Sweet Marie, the calmer Come on Home to Me, Until the Day Is Done, Song For
Olen and Holden Caulfield are really wonderful songs, belonging to the
highlights of the album. This feels like a hidden jewel, which is especially
due to the great voice of David. Do not miss this album... http://www.davemasseymusic.com
(Points:
8.4 out of 10)
Orange
Outlaw 'Desert Wolf' (Independent/Hard Life Promotion)
A
long time ago we had Dutch bands like Wild Ride, RAW, Sleeze Beez and a couple
more doing typical late 1980s American party/glamrock/Melodic Hardrock in the
style of Skid Row, Tyketto, White Lion, Lillian Axe and Firehouse. We are now
in the year 2015 and finally we can welcome a new band playing this style of
classic US Mainstream Hardrock at an incredible high level. They are called
Orange Outlaw, releasing their debut with this album Desert wolf and basically
everything sounds picture perfect here, including awesome guitarwork (Dirkjan
de Wit), superb vocals (Sven Cornelissen) in the Jeff Scott Soto style, catchy
melodies and a pumping sound that also recalls Guns'N'Roses in their heyday.
Not a single weak moment to be heard and songs like Glam On The Streets (Jeff
Scott Soto meets Tyketto meets Firehouse meets Skid Row), Nobody Wants Me Tonight
(semi groovy hardrocker a la Tesla), To Me You’re Done (now this song even
sounds like a pure 1988 classic from the USA, also reminding a bit of Victory
circa Culture Killed The Native) and the uptempo Getting Paranoid (remember Jesse
Strange, Hardline and any other band that didn't make it as big as the earlier
mentioned bands?) are a must-hear for any fan of this classic US Hardrocksound.
Although very late 80s/early 90s orientated, the major production is of a high
level and sounding modern at the same time, while musically also fans of Alter
Bridge, Creed, Shinedown and such will also enjoy this band a lot. By far one
of the finest pure Hardrockbands out of Holland since.... Vandenberg! Check
them out asap at: http://www.orangeoutlaw.nl
(Points: 8.8 out of 10)
Katie Lott
'Katie Lott' (Independent/USA Import)
Here
we have an interesting singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist out of Alabama,
USA called Katie Lott. She did everything on her own on this little mini-CD
that contains 6 tracks, of which 3 originals and 3 covers. The highlights are
the originals Criminal and Floodlights. The material is singer/songwriter based
with an alternative touch (a la Alanis Morrisette and Tori Amos), where Katie
sounds vocally at her best during the (Ingrid Michaelson cover You and I. Katie
is a gifted singer with a beautiful voice and perhaps musically next time she
might be able to add a full band sound because despite it never gets boring
this time, it is always interesting to see how it sounds like in a full band
setting rhythm section and perhap some guitar). Anyway, Katie herself could
easily become big if she's lucky enough. Fans of Birdy, Adele, Tori Amos, etc
etc can easily check her out at:
www.katielott.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Jon Scott
'Tiffany' (Independent/LucSpirit Music)
Out
of nowhere comes a sensational singer/songwriter called Jon Scott. Actually he
is from Nashville and sent me 1 song. It is such a shame, because this is
definitely of an incredible high level. The song is called Tiffany, a superb
slowtempo semi-AOR ballad in classic Mitch Malloy/Stan Bush/Philip Bardowell
(very much) and even a bit Franke and the Knockouts style, really terrific tune,
with a catchy chorus and superb vocals by Jon. His vocals are spot-on, natural
and very soulful. This is AOR the way we want to hear it! Let's hope a
full-length record will be released in the future, because this guy is
phenomenal! A must for any AOR fan out there! More info through email at: lwhite003@twcny.rr.com and check out the
song at: http://www.jango.com/music/John+Scott+Rock+
(Points: 8.7 out of 10)
Auburn 'Mixed feelings' (Bat Country Records/Hemifran)
British Singer/songwriter Liz Lenten formed Auburn in 1999 and released a couple of successful albums in the early 2000s. The band recorded the albums in Nashville, which were a nice combination of British folky pop and American country rock. However, due to parenthood, they took a long break after 2005’s album Cry, but returned as of 2011 and released 2 new albums in the following years. Now they have released their 5th album Mixed feelings. They toured as support for Jefferson Starship and Sophie Ellis Bextor in the past, so all together this is a band with a past. The new album contains a sort of bluesy rockstyle with a soulful touch. The vocals of Liz are quite nice, a little similar to Janis Joplin, but sometimes not that strong. Songs like Mixed Feelings, Love Lost Its Way and Out there are quite nice tunes and all 12 included songs are a pleasure to listen to, with also the already mentioned country and folk influences to be heard here and there. Hear for yourself at: http://www.auburn.org.uk/
(Points: 7.4 out of 10)
Tom Freund 'Two moons' (Surf Road Records/Hemifran)
Venice Beach, California settled singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Tom Freund has already released quite a lot albums since his debut in 1998, but he has been active even longer, because he wrote songs with Ben Harper back in 1992. Anyway, his latest effort is Two moons, a diverse record that combines elements of singer/songwriter and rock in a way we heard from Randy Newman in the past. His voice might not sound perfect and is not that strong, it is emotionally appealing and also quite original actually. It has a slightly depressing touch most of the time, rocking here and there with as best tracks Angel Eyes, Lemme Be Who I Wanna Be and Next Time Around. Tom is a very talented musician, playing guitar, contrabass, piano, ukulele, moog and snare drum, while he gathered musicians from the Venice Beach area around him to complete the album (such as during Sugar Pie the violin of Oliver Kraus and on Next time around vocalist Serena Ryder). Nice 7th record of Tom, more info at: http://www.tomfreund.com
(Points: 7.9 out of 10)
Ryan Davidson 'A wick burning high' (Independent/Hemifran)
The Californian singer-songwriter Ryan Davidson’s most important life event occurred when he was just 13 years old when he had a heavy accident, but as a result he learned to play the guitar, just to kill time. Eventually via punk and rock, he found his way in the (Irish) Folk and now he releases his debut album A wick burning high. Ryan himself plays also harmonica, bass, piano, percussion besides playing guitar and singing (in a depressing low tuned voice) of course. The obvious comparisons to Jake Bugg and Bob Dylan and their typical folkpop/rock are very clear, but the friendlier happier sounds of Irish folk are thankfully even more present. This is also due to the fact that Ryan has Irish roots and eventually moved to Ireland several years ago. The album tells the story of his great-grandmother moving to New York in 1890, so besides Ryan’s own originals about that event, also a lot of legendary classic traditionals are included on the album, with as highlight the catchy sing-a-long Irish style tune St. Louis MO. Interesting album, a real story telling record with its ups and downs. Check it out at: www.ryandavidson.com
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
The Flock 'Heaven bound
- The lost album' (Cleopatra Records/USA Import)
In the 1960s Rick Canoff (vocals, saxophone) and Fred Glickstein (vocals, guitar, organ) from Chicago were already active in the local rockscene as a duo and in several bands, but after forming The Flock in 1969, it was the turning point for them to make it bigger. Together with Jerry Smith (bass), Ron Karpman (drums), John Gerber (sax, flute, banjo), and Tom Webb (sax, flute), they scored a deal with Columbia Records, for whom they recorded their debut in the same year. Musically speaking typical late 60s/early 70s rock with jazz and progrock vibes and still pop melodies slipped right through. Despite this album and even a follow-up, besides playing on major festival, including Bath Festival, prior to Led Zeppelin, the band eventually broke up, but reunited for a 3rd album several years, although that was destined to become their final stop, as after 1975 the band and its members disappeared into obscurity. 40 years later, from out of nowhere a CD release was done. Although this is not a re-issue of released album, it contains the band’s unreleased 1970s material. Having not heard their earlier records, I assume that for people familiar with those albums, this CD with unreleased material sounds rather different. Roadmaster/Stingray/Queen ish pomprock can be heard here, but a little more jazzy like Chicago here and there, but also typical 1970s rock, a melting pot of all sorts of 70s pop and rockstyles actually. The catchy opener Heaven bound is a very fine uptempo piece that grabs you right away. Although the sound quality is not always crystal clear and some might find it sound a little dated, there’s enough to enjoy here. Actually this is a great diverse record that is musically speaking of a very high level, kinda 1970s major label ish, yet without the sound quality, but the strong vocalwork and excellent guitarwork makes it interesting enough to check out. Besides the catchy opener, other notable tracks are Reasons (typical 70s pomprock ballad, Queen ish), Don't You Know (Who I Am) (cool almost City Boy kinda rocker with a catchy chorus), Makes It All Worthwhile (70s poppy ballad with very light prog touch) and The Test (groovy progrocker). For all the Kiss/Starz fans, songs like Noise Boys, Love Away and The Christos Jig are nice typical 70s rockers, while 70s pop ballad fanatics will enjoy a song like C'mon Let's Walk. The album closes nicely with the instrumental Outroduction that has some really nice violin work. The rating of the album is somewhat lower due to the sound/production quality, but musically speaking it is a typical 1970s product that balances somewhere between pop, rock and prog. Nice release from one of many long lost bands, More information at: www.cleorecs.com
(Points: 7.8 out of 10)
Alan Whitfield 'Unwind' (Independent/Cleveland Music/UK Import)
Alan Whitfield is an English singer/songwriter who reminds me a bit of Mark Knopfler, so vocally it is monotone low pitched, while musically speaking it is moving into pop/rock with an American touch like Tom Petty, especially during the best songs Unwind, Long Gone, 60's Revisited (We Had Fun) and Sound It Out. Actually it is a typical independent product, so do not expect major sounding songs, but for fans of mentioned artists worthwhile checking out at: www.soundcloud.com/alanwhitfield
(Points: 7.7 out of 10)
Folly and The Hunter 'Awake' (Outside Music/DGR Music)
Out of Montreal, Canada comes the European sounding pop/rock/indie band Folly and The Hunter. Their 3rd album Awake was produced and mixed by Howie Beck (Hayden, Feist, Barenaked Ladies) and contains well-crafted radio-ready popmusic based around lush melodies and smooth instrumental sounds. The band consists of Nick Vallee: lead vocals, guitars, Laurie Torres: drums, percussion, piano, guitar, synths, vibraphone, glockenspiel, vocals, Christopher Fox: bass, organs, piano, vibraphone, synths, vocals and Phil Creamer: drums, percussion, piano, wurlitzer, guitar, vibraphone, glockenspiel, banjo, vocals. They are steadily building up a name across the world and this new album is definitely a recommended one. Perhaps not very original, because we heard it all before and it sound quite a lot like the countless other bands currently active in the popmusic world, but the job is done well and that is the most important thing nowadays. This is anthemic indie pop/rock with glorious sing-a-long choruses, like a mix between Mumford And Sons, The Killers and Fleet Foxes, with as highlights Awake, Small Victories (very catchy radio ready melody), Duisburg (calmer interesting piece, even a bit reminding of Peter Gabriel), The Way We Are (back to the radio-ready poptune) and Lose That Light (singer/songwriter, calmer piece). Although some might say that this is a faceless band and that is absolutely a point to be made about this act, because more songs in the style of Duisburg could make them a lot more interesting and different than the rest, but it sounds well enough to listen to. Towards the end of the album it all becomes a bit too formulaic and standard, with some rather simple pop tunes, but nevertheless, it has quite a few good strong moments and Folly and the Hunter is definitely worth checking out. Live on stage is something different and that is what is very important to make it in the music business these days, so we’ll see where this band is going from here. Check them out for yourself at: https://follyandthehunter.bandcamp.com/album/awake and http://www.follyandthehunter.com/home/
(Points: 7.8 out of 10)
J.P. Edwards
'Hearticulate' (Artistry Entertainment/USA Import)
Now this is perfect smooth pop/rock with strong melodies and some exceptionally strong soulful vocalwork! How about that! J.P. Edwards is his name and he is coming out of Texas, releasing his debut album Hearticulate in October 2015, which consists of 8 tracks. It’s poppy, it’s radio-ready, but not overproduced at all. His vocals are really incredible and some of the melodies are memorable forever after you heard them the first time! This talent could definitely become huge! If we go through some of the best songs here, we have to mention Stargazing, Destinations (Ben Howard meets John Mayer style, calmer singer/songwriter piece), Grave (lovely melodic tune with a sort of very laid-back relaxing moody jazzy instrumental approach, without a doubt the best song, with exceptional vocalwork as well later on in the song), Drop Everything (typical singer/songwriter summer hit, radio ready tune with in addition great female vocals, this could be a HUGE HIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and Move on (calmer singer songwriter with strong soulful vocals). J.P. is a huge talent with an amazing voice and a good ear for a catchy melody. He could become a major act one day!!! This album is a high quality release, so go check it out asap: http://jpedwardssongs.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/jpedwardsmusic
(Points: 8.4 out
of 10)
Midori and
Ezra Boy 'Midori and Ezra Boy' (Independent/USA Import)
Out
of the Bay-Area in San Francisco comes Midori and Ezra Boy, a band with a
strong 1980s US Hair Metal influence. This 3-piece band is formed around lead
singer Midori Longo, drummer Dave Briggs, guitarist Sean Zilla and
bassist/guitarist Tiger Yakimoto. Midori is an incredible singer, with both an
attitude and classic hardrock looks, but also a killer rock voice. She sings in
the classic female fronted hardrockstyle and combined with the music, sometimes
memories of If Only, Laos, Saraya, Private Life, Vixen and such come to mind
while listening to their 2nd CD. Opener So what is a fantastic AOR/Melodic Rock
anthem, which features a part of Loverboy's Working for the weekend. 11 songs
are included and besides that catchy opener, other highlights are the midtempo
groovy melodic rocker Love avalanche, the uptempo On and on (also a bit
Halestorm meets Paramore), the uptempo The Donnas' hardrocking Killing me and
closing track Light the fire that rocks as hard and groovy as Blues Pills. Do
not miss this great melodic hardrockalbum that features excellent vocals and blistering
guitarwork, a definite must for fans of mentioned bands, but it also touches
the modern way of female fronted hard/heavy rock. Rock the way it needs to
sound like! Check it out at: http://midoriandezraboy.com
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
Kevin
Sekhani 'Day ain't done' (Louisiana Red Hot Records/Hemifran)
Now
here we have a fantastic singer called Kevin Sekhani, who delivers his debut CD
with this Day ain't done. However, this Austin based musician has already done
a lot in the past, including being a member of the successful band The Mercy
Brothers. However, now he is working on his solo career and I must say that
this does sound like one of the better true Americana rootsy rock and roll
records of 2015. Kevin has got a terrific voice in the classic tradition of
John Cougar Mellencamp, the Black Crowes singer Chris Robinson and Silver
Condor legend Joe Cerisano, while also musically tapping out of that style,
fitting somewhere between those acts. The songs are melodic and very catchy,
easy to sing-a-long and featuring those excellent vocals by Kevin. Although
Americana and rootsy rock, along with heartland rock is combined here most of
the time with also traditional instruments that make it sound a little folksy,
there are also clear early 80s poprock-aor influences to be heard that even
make me compare Kevin to Silver Condor. Highlights are The Higher I Get, Walk
Away From Me, Summer street and Burial Ground. A surprisingly great record, so
do not miss this gem! More at: http://www.kevinsekhani.com
(Points: 8.5 out of 10)
Unbreakable
'Knockout' (Dark Star Records/German Import)
It's
a new Scorpions record in their best 1980s heyday style! Nope! This is the
debut album of the new German band Unbreakable. I have to admit that this could
easily have been a new Scorpions record, but songwise it sounds slightly catchier
than the last few comeback records of their heroes. Producer of their first
record is none-other than Herman Rarebell, the former Scorpions Drummer and
writer of songs like Rock you Like a Hurricane, Blackout and many more. The
album was recorded at the Principal Studios and the Kidroom Studio with Michael
Voss of Mad Max, Casanova and many more legendary German melodic hardrockbands.
Although nothing new is brought here and the songs are either in the classic
Rock you like a hurricane/No one like you style (Rock the nightlife and Good
times for example) or a typical Scorpions ballad style (Come back to me and In
your heart), it all sounds very strong, with as absolute highlight the
fantastic opener Knockout, where we have a true melodic hardrock winner to
sing-a-long to. Other highlights are Obsession and Back to the roots. Fans of
80s Scorpions will absolutely love this band, but also fans of Heat, Dokken and
Firehouse need to check out this melodic hardrock sensation at:
www.unbreakable-music.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
The Darker
My Horizon 'Acquiesce' (Winkelrant Records/UK Import)
The
British band The Darker My Horizon is formed around Sacred Heart members,
vocalist/guitarist Paul Stead and guitarist Mark Stephenson, aliong with former
Crimes Of Passion bassist Simon Fearn and drummer Gavin Tester. Musically
speaking a mixture of both bands, but as these were not such well-known, let's
keep it on typical 80s influenced arena melodic rock with catchy choruses and
some great melodic singing. Think of Phil Vincent, but then better, not far
removed from bands like Dokken, Norway, Firehouse, Know Illusion, Teer, Talon,
Slyboyz, Tindrum, etc. etc. 15 songs are included and if you're familiar with
the mentioned bands and this genre, you will definitely love such anthems like
Can't stop the rain (hello Firehouse!!!), OK (a classic sing-a-long tune!!!) and
the beautiful ballad In the dark. Make sure not to miss this gem at: www.thedarkermyhorizon.com
(Points: 8.5 out of 10)
Stephen
Monroe 'Driving the sky highway' (Independent/USA Import)
The
American singer/songwriter/blues musician Stephen Monroe has been in the music
business for many years and Driving the sky highway is his third solo-album.
Musically speaking we get to hear pure bluesrock, with also a humoristic touch
here and there, such as during the song Oh how I love that girl. No mo' fo'
sho' is as blues as you can get, clearly in the Muddy Waters/BB King style.
There's also some more singer-songwriter based material, while Tom Waits and JJ
Cale are also possible comparisons, but Stephen has his own way of singing and
that makes him an interesting musician, because we don't need another copycat
of someone else. However, to give you an idea of the sound of Stephen, I think
mentioning those musicians you will understand what to expect and I have to
admit that Stephen does a great job here. Bluesrockfans need to check out this
musician at: http://www.stephenmonroe.com/
(Points: 8.0 out of 10)
Deepshade
'Everything popular is wrong' (Ambicon Records/UK Import)
Out
of Wigan, UK comes the trio Deepshade, a band playing pure Alternative Rock
with a sorta 1991 approach, so it could be called Grunge here and there as
well, although there's also a The Doors kinda Classic Rock vibe shining through
in for example the excellent uptempo rocking The line that does remind of
Queens Of The Stone Age quite a lot too. Anyway, the band released a very
strong diverse album titled Everything popular is wrong, which starts with the
Nirvana noisy grunge rocker Time, but as already mentioned the CD takes a
different route after that with the song The line, which is followed by the
late 1960s psychedelic midtempo rocker Out of hand, where the band's
vocalist/guitarist David Rybka sounds a bit like David Bowie. David is a fantastic
singer, who clearly fits in well here with this diverse rocking band and I have
to say that Deepshade leaves a big impression with their first album. The
festival season of 2016 could well become their big breakthrough if they're
lucky. If only an appearance on the Jools Holland show would be possible, then
Deepshade will get a big boost to become more known. They definitely have got
the potentional to become the next big rockband, so who knows in the near
future they will develop themselves to greater things. Other highlights on the
album are Haven't said a word, Bring the axe down and Sadsun, but it's best of
course to check them out for yourself at: http://www.facebook.com/deepshadeuk
and in case you want to order their CD, I can inform you that the package is
really great with some nice drawings and a real retro look (Soundgarden/King's
X/Screaming Trees). Well done guys!
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
Deth Enemy
'Unmovable' (Big Sky Sun Records/Vigilante/UK Import)
The
new Australian band Deth Enemy is formed around the Caiulo Brothers
(vocalist/guitarist Al and drummer Frank), who happened to meet
multi-instrumentalist/ producer/engineer Tom E Morrison (Underworld, Bliss,
Bonnie Tyler, Andrew Roachford) and record in London with him their debut
Unmovable. The album is high class mainstream 1980s US Melodic Hardrock with a
touch of AOR. It's all done very well and sometimes it's like we stepped into a
time machine back to 1989, because excellent songs like the semi-ballad When an
angel falls and the uptempo AOR rockers Dark side of the blues, Eternally
blessed, Open your heart (lovely chorus - pure 80s AOR!) and Ordinary people sound
like Diving For Pearls, Velocity, Loud'n'Clear (vocals sound identical to Jess
Harnell), Airkraft, Firehouse, Tokyo Rose, 80s Bon Jovi and such legendary bands
from the 80s US Melodic Rockgenre. Most of all they remind me so much of that
Aussie band Demont, if anyone remembers them! Some of the choruses and hooks
sound a little Def Leppardish Arena Melodic Rock, but combine all the acts
mentioned in this review, then you have the Deth Enemy sound! Black Sabbath
influences can also be heard during Devil's playground, so there's some more
diversity as well, but the late 80s classic melodic hardrocksound is the key
factor here. The drums sound a little thin and the overall production is not as
major label ish as mentioned bands, but nevertheless we do have a great record
here! Go check them out at: www.dethenemy.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
King
George ' Love Songs and Medications' (Independent/Australia Import)
Sensational
release from the band King George out of Australia! They are formed around George
Zois (Vocal/Guitar/Piano), released their debut Prisoners Of The Pluto Junction
in 2010 and now follow it up with Love Songs and Medications. This album was
actually already released in 2014, but so far hasn't been noticed up until now.
George is a very talented strong singer/songwriter, with a great voice and a
very keen focus on writing catchy melodies for each and every song. All 10
songs on this record are sounding brilliant and sometimes it sounds like if
this is a classic album. It has a major label sound/production and loaded with
potential hit songs. Opener Slingshot is a very catchy uptempo poprocker with a
modern approach in the style of The Killers and Kings Of Leon, while the
midtempo Truth and lies has a slight touch of Muse and Coldplay, another huge
hit potential almost arena rock anthem. And so it goes on and on, with many
more catchy uptempo sing-a-long poprockers, such as Heroes (fantastic!), Hover
(great guitarsolo), Running away (pure AOR!) and 904. Also some similarities to
80s U2, Ultravox, Bystander, Dragon, Inxs and whatever 80s kinda poprockband
comes to mind is possible. All together I think you'll get the picture here.
Although it might not be that original, King George has got all it takes to
become huge for sure! Check them out at: www.kinggeorge.com.au
(Points: 8.7 out of 10)
Them Vibes
'TV' (Teenage Head Music)
Formed
in Nashville back in 2013, releasing their debut album in 2014, the band Them
Vibes now is ready to make their big break worldwide with their follow-up album
TV, which is actually a mini-album. The record was produced by seven-time
Grammy award-winning producer and engineer Richard Dodd, who has worked with
the likes of Tom Petty, George Harrison, Counting Crows, The Civil Wars, Kings
of Leon and Wilco. The result is a stunning somewhat retro sounding rock record
that sounds like a great combination of The Black Crowes, Jane's Addiction,
Rolling Stones and World Party. Them Vibes fits in nicely between those acts
and the 5 included tracks are also of a very high level, sometimes easily
reaching those similar sounding bands from the past. Highlight is Hit n Run,
which smells a lot like classic Stones and Quireboys, with an AC/DC meets
Cinderella beat as well. I can definitely highly recommend this band, whom
might become bigger in 2016 if they are lucky enough to make a good start in
Europe where they will tour in January, so the festival season of 2016 could
then be the next big thing... Who knows! In the meantime check them out at: http://www.themvibes.com
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
The Silent
Comedy 'Friends divide' (Teenage Head Music)
Out
of San Diego, California comes the band The Silent Comedy, a very interesting
band founded by the brothers Joshua and Jeremiah Zimmerman in 2006. They
already released 2 full-length records and 2 EP's and Friends divide is their
latest effort. This EP was produced by Chris "Frenchie" Smith (The
Darkness, Jet, Gregg Rolie, The Answer, etc. etc. and basically it sounds
massive. The vocals are spot-on, the guitarwork biting and the melodies are
haunting. Musically speaking it is rather typical American music, with strong
memorable hooks and choruses, excellent crystal clear vocalwork and songs that
stick in your head, such as the lovely midtempo Always two or the southern rock
fried Light of day. 6 songs are included in total and this band has definitely
got what it takes to become bigger, as their sound is rich and attractive
enough for both the rock and indie/folk fans among us. Rival Sons (during the
few rockier tunes) meets Mumford And Sons (when they go folky and indie during
the 2nd part of the EP) could be a nice description, but The Silent Comedy
sounds actually like themselves and that is a good thing! Go check them out at:
http://thesilentcomedy.com
(Points: 8.8 out of 10)
Wonky Tonk
'Stuff we leave behind' (Independent/USA Import)
Out
of the US state of Kentucky comes Wonky Tonk, a duo formed around Jasmine Poole
and Mike Ingram, whom are influenced by Loretta Lynn, The Avett Brothers,
Shovels and Rope, Frontier Folk Nebraska, Billy Catfish, Vampire Weekend at
Bernies, George Jones, John Prine, Guy Clark. Musically speaking we are heading
sometimes into classic honky-tonk bluegrass/country (Washington Avenue, Parkland
Avenue - a ballad of the real old almost Dolly Parton style and Saffin Avenue -
even reminding of Mumford And Sons), although the uptempo rocking Cleveland and
Montague Road also reveals more modern alernative rock influences. Those 2
rockier tunes are also definitely the highlights here, so hopefully more
rocking material on a future album. Anyway, the result is a very nice album
that mixes nicely a diversity in styles, although fans of classic country-rock
with very strong female vocals will best be pleased with this Wonky Tonk. Check
them out at: http://wonkytonkmusic.com/
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Summer Twins 'Limbo' (Burger
Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Summer Twins is a band from Riverside, California, formed around Chelsea
Brown- guitar, vocals and Justine Brown- drums, vocals. Their debut Limbo is a
very nice record that is clearly influenced by 1950s/1960s pop with a slight
garage rock touch, reminding me quite a bit of She and Him, although both indie
pop and punkpop influences can also be heard. What they have done here is a
great job and most of the 12 songs that are included are a pleasure to listen
to. Happy uptempo indie-pop can be heard during Demons, Florence, Love within
and Stop and go, which remind a bit of Dum Dum Girls and The Bangles, while calmer
dreampop orientated tunes are Blinds, Our world and Helpless. The best songs
are Ouija, which has a late 1960s vibe a la Shocking Blue, Earth and Fire, The
Zombies, and also the melodic songs Juju and Dreamin, which are both excellent
light psychedelic garage poprock. Final tracks Fire and especially So funny
are somehow reflecting a Fleetwood Mac influence and they close the album very
nicely in the already 1960s mood. This is a grower and quite an original record
actually. Go check this summer friendly sounding release out during this cold
winter period. More at: www.summertwins.com
(Points: 8.3 out of 10)
The Widowbirds 'Black into
the blue' (Whistling Dixie Records/Teenage Head Music)
Out of Sydney comes The Widowbirds, a band formed back in 2010 by Simon
Meli – Vocals/guitar and Tony Kvesic – Guitar, with already 1 EP and 2
full-length releases so far. Back into the blue marks their 3rd and
this is probably their make or break record. They have got the soul and they
rock, but is it enough between the countless other acts in this rockworld?
Well, that is hard to tell, because they do remind a lot of Aerosmith Led
Zeppelin, The Black Keys, The Black Crowes, injected with a strong soul voice,
but judging on this new album, I think they are not yet reaching that high
level. They do offer some serious soulful rock and roll with bluesy groovy
licks. Songs like Dreamcatcher and Born are quite excellent actually, but there
are also some average tunes here and perhaps live on stage this band can truly
show what they are able to do. For now, there are other strong bands in this
genre active, but nevertheless fans of Rival Sons, The Black Keys, Zeppelin,
Aerosmith, Royal Blood, etc. can easily check out this band at: www.thewidowbirds.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Mikke Severinsson 'Again'
(Canamus/Hemifran)
Typical Swedish westcoast/pop is what you get to hear on the 4-songs
counting EP of Swedish singer/songwriter Mikke Severinsson. Starting with
Again, this is westcoast ish rock with Dire Straits ish vocals a la Mark
Knopfler and also a little Dakota ish AOR, a pretty good tune actually. The One
Percent follows and this is a nice uptempo rocker, very much in the aor/westcoast
style, sounding clearly Swedish, same goes for the song Nadine that reminds a
bit of Steely Dan as well. Closing track Break the Wave is a nice AOR ballad.
Somehow they remind a lot of the Swedish band Promotion, if anyone remembers
them, so if you’re interested then check it out at: www.mikkeseversinsson.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Sedlmeir 'Melodien sind sein
leben' (Rookie Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Now this is retro new wave electronic pop in the classic late
1970s/early 80s style, sounding robotic and monotone and probably for some
kinda dated, but if you’re interested in hearing a mix between Kraftwerk, BAP
and 70s Ultravox, highly recommended to check out. The songs are sung in the German
language, so for some that might sound a little awkward, but Rammstein’s music
is also no problem for a lot people. It’s best to check it out for yourself at:
www.rookierecords.de
(Points: 7.3 out of 10)
Atlas Road Crew 'Halfway to
hopkins' (Independent/Teenage Head Music)
Atlas Road Crew is based in Charleston, South Carolina and they are
delivering the goods here on this fantastic debut album Halfway to hopkins.
This is a sensational new band that can easily become huge, thanks to a superb
vocalist and a great classic rocksound in the Led Zeppelin/Aerosmith style,
with also Southern Rock influences of the Lynyrd Skynyrd kind. The band was
founded in 2011 by Taylor Nicholson (vocals, guitar), Dave Beddingfield
(Guitar), Max Becker (Bass Guitar), Bryce James (Piano), and Patrick Drohan
(Drums) while attending The University of South Carolina. Their very first
record was partly produced by Rick Beato (Needtobreathe, Shinedown, Trey
Anastasio) and right from the start you’re hooked, because this is the way we
want to hear our rock and roll. They have got that traditional typical “deep
down from the south of the USA” sound that only musicians from that region are
able to create. Songs like Voices, Wasted Time, Runaway and Betty are truly
superb classic groovy hardrocksongs that should be heard by any classic rockfan
out there! Don’t miss this sensational band at: www.atlasroadcrew.com
(Points: 8.7 out of 10)
Gospelbeach 'Pacific surf
line' (Alive Naturalsound Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
The artwork of the debut album Pacific surf line by LA, California based
Gospelbeach looks like this could be a punkrock or glamrockband, but they are
definitely playing indie pop/rock with a lightweight Americana touch and
folkpop influences as well. During the best songs, the uptempo California
Steamer, Sunshine Skyway, Mick Jones and Come Down, they even remind a bit of
Venice. There are also a few ballads included, such as Southern Girl and your
freedom (nice guitarsolo), so don’t be scared off by the somewhat aggressive
looking frontcover of the album. The band was formed by singer-guitarist Brent
Rademaker (Beachwood Sparks, the Tyde, Further), who last year began jamming
with former Beachwood Sparks bandmate and drummer Tom Sanford. Guitarist Neal
Casal (Ryan Adams and the Cardinals, the Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Furthur)
joined in, and then guitarist Jason Soda (Everest, Watson Twins) and bassist
Kip Boardman (Watson Twins) stepped on board. All together, Gospelbeach is
therefore actually a sort of side-project linked to Beachwood Sparks, with a
couple of other professional musicians. Nice album that could use a little more
rock injection, but if you’re starting to become interested, then go check it
out for yourself at: www.gospelbeach.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Various Artists 'R&B
Hipshakers volume 4' (Vampisoul Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Here we have a very nice compilation album filled with tracks from 1953
to 1967 by lesser known, but still quite legendary artists in the classic
R&B/Soul genre of the 1950s/1960s. Selected by mr fine wine from the
radiostation WFMU, this 4th volume features 20 great lost tunes of
which we truly need to mention We'll never meet again - The Midnighters,
Somewhere down the line - Jimmy Scott (incredible voice!), Back on the block -
Sam Anderson & The Telstars, The way you do - Jimmy Nolen, Mister glenn -
Little Willie John and Space guitar - Young John Watson. Captured on CD and
probably on Vinyl, the sound is crystal clear for this old recordings and fans
of 1950s/1960s era R&B/Soul in the style of The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Sam
Cooke and such, they really need to check out these songs that could easily
also have become classics back then. Check out more at: www.munsterrecords.de
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Bruce and Vlady 'The reality'
(Vampisoul Records/Sonic Rendezvous)
Originally released in Sweden way back in 1970, the duo Bruce and
Vlady’s one-off record now gets its first re-issue after 45 years. The album
featured American Hammond player Bruce Powell and Polish drummer Wladyslaw
Jagiello, whom both created an experimental hypnotic progressive jazz record
that has always remained a cult record. The unusual use of only drums and a
Hammond makes it a very unique record that stood the test of time and will be
loved by anyone into experimental progressive jazz. It’s best to check it out
for yourself at: www.bruceandvlady.com
(Points: 7.9 out of 10)
Jeremy Pinnell 'Oh ky'
(Sofaburn Records/Hemifran)
Out of Burlington, KY, USA comes singer/songwriter Jeremy Pinnell who
releases a nice traditional country record in the classic style of the good old
country legends. Besides Jeremy on vocals and acoustic guitar, the album also
features the 55s as his backing band, consisting of Cameron Cochran: Pedal
Steel, Brad Myers: Guitar & Mandolin, Harold Kennedy: Guitar, Charles
Christopher Alley: Drums, Ben Franks: Bass and Tim Carr: Vocals. The vocals of
Jeremy are very strong and songs like Rodeo, Sleep song and Outlaw life are
memorable tunes in the classic country style, with singer-songwriter style.
Although it gets a little boring after a while, because there is not that much
variety, fans of classic country will absolutely love this record. More at: http://www.jeremypinnell.com
(Points: 7.9 out of 10)
Royal Holland 'Volume one:
The maze and volume two: Flamingo' (Independent/USA Import)
Musician Royal Holland comes out of Newport, KY, USA and he sent me 2
EP’s he recorded. Additional musicians include Margaret Darling, Matt
Retherford, Wonky Tonk and Kendall Bruns. His music is described as folk rock,
but there’s more than meets the eye when we have a closer look at the 10 songs
which in total can be found on the 2 EP’s. Starting with volume one: The maze,
this record starts quite original, with the song Devil's night, a melodic,
laid-back, close harmony driven indie pop/rocker that somehow reminds me of a
cross between Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen. Next track Statues is more modern
day singer/songwriter based, a great tune with a very strong melody a la
Hozier. The maze is a calmer singer/songwriter piece, while Shore is the best
song on volume 1, because this is a catchy uptempo tune a la Dotan. Closing
track Twin rivers (featuring Margareth Darling as female guest singer) is a
calmer piece that sounds a little more experimental, reminding of Tom Waits!
Volume 2 is actually better and rocks also much more, with opener The Grave
being an excellent catchy uptempo rocker that sounds very melodic. Followed by
Flamingo (another uptempo rocking piece that starts calm), Holy Moses (calmer
piece) and Polaroid Blues (1960s The Kinks ish), volume 2 finishes with These
Mundane Lives (ok uptempo folky indie tune a la Bob Dylan and Jake Bugg).
Definitely an interesting upcoming musician we have here and you can check him
out at: https://www.royalhollandsongs.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Reverend Fairchild 'Hillbilly
Zen-Punk Blues' (Independent/Hemifran)
Originally from Hawaii, vocalist/guitarist Reverend Freakchild is now settled
in New York, where he also recorded his latest album Hillbilly Zen-Punk Blues.
The album features besides Reverend the session musicians Hugh Pool (lapsteel,
harmonica), Chris Parker (drummer who worked with many legendary musicians,
such as Bob Dylan, and Joe Cocker), Tugboat Eustis (bass), John Ragusa (flute)
and the Mulebone Singers as backing singers. Vocally Reverend has a very strong
voice with an own identity, while musically it is melodic singer-songwriter
style with a slight westcoast vibe, like a mix between JJ Cale and Steely Dan,
which can best be heard during the great songs All I got is now and It’s gonna
be alright. There’s also a strong 50s/60s blues vibe going on here, which can
especially be heard during the instrumental tracks, but the real surprise is
Tears of fire, which is a somewhat groovy tune that sounds like Billy Joel
meets Rufus Wainwright doing a blues tune together! Actually the diversity is
making this record such an impressive record and one to listen to over and over
again. Discover more on this talented musician at: http://www.www-reveredfreakchild.org/
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
My Quiet
Companion 'My Quiet Companion' (MQC Records/Hemifran)
The
Swedish, Gothenburg based trio My Quiet Companion consists of Patrick Rydman,
Sofia Ekberg and Henrik Cederblom, they were formed in the autumn of 2012 and
create a melodic westcoast meets singer/songwriter meets folk ish pop music
style that is clearly focused on beautiful melodies. With three guitars,
mandoline, dobro, stompox and harmony singing, they take you on a melodic
journey on the same titled debut album. Male and female vocals are shared here,
where the male vocal featured songs are a little more aor-westcoast-poprock
orientated, such as the beautiful opener My quiet companion or Today I woke up,
while the female vocals take the more folk/singer/songwriter direction, such as
the Swedish traditional style folk ish tune Sa nara that make you feel like
you're somewhere in Uppsala, and also closing track Goodnjght Sally. Without a
doubt, this is a really lovely album that is showing how much talent is walking
around in lovely Sweden. Great singing, excellent instrumental work and
fantastic melodies is what you get to hear on this debut album of My Quiet
Companion. Check it out for yourself at: http://www.myquietcompanion.com
(Points: 8.2 out of 10)
Faith
Healer 'Back to zero' (RVP Records)
Formed
in 2014 by Dutch guitarist Peter Bourbon of Picture, Vengeance and many more,
the band Faith Healer is a new sensation on the horizon. The line-up is
completed by Dennis Geraads (drummer, producer, sound engineer and owner of the
Skillz Drums Academy), Peter Rovers (bass), Marc Meesters (guitarist and
singer) and young Polish vocalist – Zinny Zalesky (Piotr “Zinny” Zaleski).
Zinny has got a fantastic Rockvoice, reminding me of Sebastian Bach and other
typical classic late 80s American Poser Metal singers. The music is also very much
going into that classic Hair Metal genre, reminding of bands like Bangalore
Choir, Hericane Alice, Hurricane, Y&T, Dokken, Heaven's Edge, Tyketto, Victory,
Firehouse, Know Illusion, Slyboyz, Whitesnake, so basically melodic hardrock
with an edge, a straight-forward massive wall-of-guitar-sound, catchy hooks,
memorable choruses, classic guitar riffs and guitar solos along with
in-your-face vocals. The production and sound quality of the album is of an
incredible high level, so is the musicianship and most of the 12 songs are very
sensational, basically a must-have for any fan of mentioned bands. If we have a
run through the tracklisting we can add as favorite tracks Going with the flow (a
fantastic uptempo melodic heavy rocker), the midtempo Love is a crime (a really
massive sounding melodic rocker as if it was 1989 or something, with a faster
uptempo part that features lovely guitarwork), the semi-melodic rockballad Keep
on dreamin' and the lovely uptempo melodic rocker Why don't we go. This album
sounds like it was recorded by an American band 25 years ago for a major label
band, ready for the American radio and TV world, but they are really coming out
of Holland, making their debut with this album. Go check them out asap at: https://www.facebook.com/faithhealerbandofficial
(Points: 8.7 out of 10)
Robyn Cage
'Born in the desert' (Independent/USA Import)
Here
we have an incredible high quality release out of Utah, USA, but it is an independent
release, so not easy to trace. Luckily we got our hands on this major label ish
release, because basically this sounds like a record of an established
musician, but Robyn Cage is not yet a familiar household name. Anyway, her
first full-length album Born in the desert shows that we definitely have to
keep our eyes open for this talented multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter.
Of course people will compare her material and way of singing to acts like
Adele, Florence and The Machine, Kate Bush, Fiona Apple, Lana Del Rey, Tori
Amos, St. Vincent and such, but the way it is done is of a superb high level.
Robyn has got that pick of destiny in her voice that makes her standout between
the rest. The album was recorded with two time Grammy-nominated producer Darryl
Neudorf (Neko Case, Sarah McLachlan) and Grammy-nominated and Juno
Award-winning producer Dan Burns (Carina Round, Early Winters) at various
locations, LA and New York, so Robyn got out of Utah and explored the USA. The
result is alternative pop/rock with a modern twist and high pitched vocals,
that is what this album is all about. Songs like Larger than life, If you don't
try and the fantastic titletrack show how sensational this is, kinda like Tori
Amos, also visually when you look at the artwork of the album. On the other
hand, Robyn has got an own identity in her voice, just listen to the lovely 70s
poppy ballad Cinderella story and the theatrical Theatre noir (Rufus/Martha
Wainwright style), so I can safely say that we might welcome another female
music star on the horizon here, whom you might check out at: http://robyncage.com/
(Points: 8.6 out of 10)
Jarekus Singleton
'Refuse to lose' (Alligator Records/Munich Records)
Now here we have a superb high quality melodic bluesy precise guitar solos orientated release that will please any fan of legendary guitarists such as B.B. King, Freddie King, Albert King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Gary Moore, Joe Bonamassa, etc.. The name of this young talented guitarist/singer/songwriter is Jarekus Singleton, who was born on the 11th of July, 1984 in Clinton, Mississippi, USA. He is vocally singing in the way BB King and Jimi Hendrix did in the past, so basically we have an absolute winner here. The phenomenal natural guitarwork is unique and shows the incredible talent of this guitarist. It is like he is singing on his guitar, belting out melodic solo’s and melodies all the time, so you might say that he is married to his guitar. Although not all the songs are memorable and it is clear he is in the early stages of his career, the potential of becoming the next big bluesrockstar is notable and I am convinced that when his songwriting improves he doesn’t have to look back, because this is a talent everyone needs to hear. Not just the standard blues riff or the slow depressing blues is the name of the game here, but instead you’ll get out-of-the-box thinking bluesy rock with supreme guitarwork to which you can listen for hours and hours. This is a guitarist you absolutely do not want to miss. Check out more at: http://www.jarekus.com
(Points: 8.5 out of 10)
Osborne Jones 'In the
moment' (Lowbrow Records/Hemifran)
In the moment is the 3rd CD of the duo Osborne Jones, so this is not a single singer/songwriter act as you might expect when seeing the bandname, because in reality Osborne Jones consists of David Osborne from Los Angeles and London based David-Gwyn Jones. Together they are doing classic country with a modern pop twist here and there. Songs like The Promise of a Kiss and Give Me Just a Few More Years are 2 examples of their glorified sound that will whet the appetite of any fan of the good old classic country style (George Jones, Buck Owens, etc.). Check it out for yourself at: http://www.osbornejonesmusic.com
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
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