Favorite albums of 2011

Not as strong as 2010 but the top music was still GREAT!

1.  Cloud Nothings- "Cloud Nothings"
Imagine being on an intense, hook-filled, pop/punk sugar rush for 28 minutes! You will play it again and again and again and again...

2.  Lykke Li - "Wounded Rhymes"
Phil Spector meets Swedish ice queen and sparks fly! From the pounding "Get Some" to the melancholy of "Sadness is a Blessing" it's a glorious trip!

3.  The Joy Formidable - "The Big Roar"
Never has there been a more aptly named album. Guitarist/singer/ human dynamo Ritzy Bryan and co. create a crushingly melodic wall of noise!

4. The Black Keys - "El Camino"
Test drive this van and throw those Grammys out the window! This is the most rockin' Black Keys album in years!

5.  Pains of Being Pure at Heart - "Belong"

Their second album is full of more fuzzed-out melodic pop. Just gets better and better with repeated listening (uh-oh, I may have to move it up a place).

6.  Cults - "Cults"
There's enough beautifully souped up retro girl group music here to hold you over until the next "Best Coast" album. Nice!

7.  Yuck - "Yuck"
England's latest indie-rock darlings debut is heavily influenced by Dinosaur Jr. and their 90s like but in the best way with strong songs and buzzing guitar.

8.  R.E.M. - "Collapse Into Now"
My favorite band has never disappointed me and they bow out in style. Thanks for the incredible musical ride guys!

9.  Fleet Foxes - "Helplessness Blues"
Robin Pecknold crafts another set of heartmeltingly beautiful songs in the vein of Crosby, Stills & Nash.

10.  Real Estate - "Days" 
Strong sophomore effort has Real Estate spinning dreamy 6-string pop.


Honorable Mention - Dum Dum Girls - "Only In Dreams", Atlas Sound - "Parallax", Decemberists - "The King is Dead", Death Cab For Cutie - "Codes & Keys", Fountains of Wayne - "Sky Full of Holes", TV on the Radio - "Nine Types of Light"

Something old...something new (#14)

"Rock 'n' Roll Animal" by Lou Reed (released 1974 - remastered 2000)

"Lou Reed sucks, but 'Rock' n 'Roll Animal' rules" - customer review on Amazon.com

   Following the demise of "The Velvet Underground" Lou Reed embarked on a solo career which for the most part has been highly forgettable save for "Rock 'n' Roll Animal" and "Lou Reed Live" which sit like shimmering twin diamonds on a mountain of garbage. Lou hit the road in 1973 with a red hot band (Guitar - Dick Wagner & Steve Hunter, Bass - Prakash John, Drums - Pentti Glan, Keyboards - Ray Colcord) and the result was one of the finest live albums ever released! Reed wisely stays with his Velvet Underground work whose seminal songs were originally recorded in a very minimalist fashion but hold up and even blossom under the savage 6-string work of Hunter and Wagner. Their twining guitars are staggering right from the get go with a blistering intro that leads into the classic "Sweet Jane". The amazing and haunting autobiographical "Heroin" follows which even at thirteen minutes suffers not a dull moment. Lou is in fine form throughout and is obviously energized by his powerful band. "White Heat/White Light" and "Rock 'n' Roll" are two other searing guitarfests separated by the lovely "Lady Day". It is worth buying the 2000 remaster for the two bonus tracks, "How Do You Think it Feels" and "Caroline Says" (between these two tracks Lou pricelessly speaks his only recorded word as fans yell out requests -"Shaddup") For more of this concert search out "Lou Reed Live" which features six more songs including "Vicious" and "I'm Waiting for the Man". This album full of supercharged Velvet Underground music took FM radio by storm in 1974 and remains one of my favorites today!

"Lucky" by Nada Surf (released 2008)

   Nada Surf is a trio from New York that have been quietly producing outstanding music appropriate for sunny summer days or cold winter nights for the past 15 years. The band continues to gently refine it's sound with each release culminating with the gorgeous "Lucky". Their sound is an irresistible mix of catchy guitar driven pop, smooth harmonies and choruses you will be humming long after the songs are over. On the opener "See These Bones" vocals soar over a shimmering bed of guitars and set you up for an album full of equally memorable and brilliantly produced songs. The perfectly named "Beautiful Beat" is my favorite, with it's uplifting sound and message that music has the power to help you through despair. "Whose Authority", "Weightless", "Ice on the Wing" and "From Now On" continue the parade of chiming rockers that are found on most of the CD. "Here Goes Something" is a charming acoustic tune that will have you smiling and longing for another verse. "The Fox" captivates with a mesmerizing tremelo guitar figure that is complimented by violin and a stunning bridge. Ending with the quietly beautiful "The Film Did Not Go 'Round" this is an album that makes an impact on first listen and gets better after each play. Their previous release"Weight is a Gift" is also highly recommended and I am anxiously awaiting their new release January 24!

Something old....something new (#13)

I plan to review one golden oldie from my collection and one relatively new release that I really enjoyed each week. I welcome any ideas, comments or ideas for future topics.

"Billion Dollar Babies" by Alice Cooper (released 1973 - remastered 2001)

"Billion Dollar Babies" is the Alice Cooper Band's musical and commercial pinnacle. Every song sparkles with the twin guitar attack of Glen Buxton and Michael Bruce. Buxton has an unerring ability to play fills and solos that perfectly complement the melody and imprint themselves indelibly in your mind. It's simply not possible to imagine any way his licks could be improved upon. "Hello Hooray" features an appropriately majestic intro to the song and the album. Alice's vocals shred on "Elected" which includes a punchy horn section. The title track is a sick rock monster showcasing terrific guitar solos by Buxton and a wild vocal assist from Donovan! "No More Mr. Nice Guy" rounds out the singles portion of the disc with more six-string ear candy and hilarious lyrics making for a pop friendly hit. Other coulda' been hits are the hard rocking "Raped and Freezin" and criminally overlooked gem that is "Generation Landslide". "Sick Things" sounds like a Nine Inch Nails outtake while the creepily exciting singalong "I Love the Dead" crowns Alice as the king of necrophilia. Parents were aghast at this music when it was released but we kids knew a good thing when we heard it. It was a Looney Tunes horror show with tongue planted firmly in cheek and the live show put it all over the top. This was a red hot band and the reissue includes a bonus disc of a great live show from 1973. If you can only own one Alice Cooper CD (a sad thought), this is the one!

"The Big Roar" by The Joy Formidable" (released 2011)

The Joy Formidable are a noise pop/rock trio from Wales and "The Big Roar" is appropriately titled. Fronted by the dynamic guitarist/singer Ritzy Bryan this band can whip things into a frenzy quickly and often with an effervescent mix of shoegaze and driving power pop. The band has a thunderous rhythm section and Bryan's fuzzed out wall of guitar noise is mesmerizing. Some highlights are the crashing beat of "The Magnifying Glass", the melodically rollicking "Austere" and the hypnotically pounding "Whirring" which climaxes in a whirlpool of sound. "Cradle" is a showcase of everything great about this band; buzzing guitars, catchy melody, head banging rhythms and great vocals. "The Greatest Light is the Greatest Shade" is a ballad that closes the album on an epic note. This is a disc that demands to be played LOUD! Live, Ritzy Bryan is as commanding a front woman as I have seen. She stalks the stage with her guitar like a woman possessed but is unassuming and has a beautifully clear voice. In the end The Joy Formidable is able to create an extremely heavy sound and yet somehow be uplifting at the same time. "The Big Roar" definitely is!

Something old....something new (#12)

"Seconds of Pleasure" by Rockpile (released 1980 - remastered 2004)

   The only release from these legendary English new wave/retro rockers. Featuring Nick Lowe (bass, vocals), Dave Edmunds (guitar, vocals) Billy Bremner (guitar, vocals) and Terry Williams (drums, drums, drums) Rockpile revs up American rockabilly and R&B to perfection. Every song is filled with memorable melodies and is bursting with hooks. Covers of "Teacher Teacher" and "If Sugar was as Sweet as You" get things off to a rollicking start. The bouncy "Heart" features an outstanding vocal performance by Bremner and a blistering solo from Edmunds. Chiming guitars and brilliant harmonies propel "Now and Always". Cracking drums launch the shuffle "Play That Fast Thing (One More Time)" "Wrong Again" is a spunky number highlighting Edmund's vocals and guitar. The bubbling soul of "When I Write the Book" is driven by drums and organ. "Fool Too Long" is a dark rocker filled with crashing guitars and vocal harmonies. The album ends with the ripping "You Ain't Nothin' But Fine" maybe the best song Chuck Berry didn't write. The remaster includes the songs from the 45 issued with the original pressing of the LP. It features four Everly Brothers songs lovingly sung by Lowe and Edmunds. There are also three excellent live tracks making this remaster a must buy. It's sad that this is the only release by Rockpile but we're fortunate they left us with this little slice of pop brilliance. 

"Majesty Shredding" by Superchunk (released 2010)

    I am late to the party in regards to "Superchunk", a four piece indie-rock outfit from North Carolina who have been around for over 20 years! Two members (Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance) formed Merge records which continues to be an influential tastemaker for indie music (Arcade Fire, Dinosaur Jr., M. Ward) and this is their first album in almost ten years! This release sounds incredibly fresh, radiates positive energy and is an astoundingly great record from beginning to end. The disc opens with a howl of feedback and some splendid distortion-fueled guitar skronk on"Digging for Something".  The strangely titled "My Gap Feels Weird" follows up with more glorious guitar crunch and strong vocals. "Rosemarie" is a beautifully melodic mid-tempo rocker which leads to my favorite track "Crossed Wires". Buzz saw guitar riffs fuel the tune into a super catchy chorus and more fuzzed out six-string bliss. If they just repeated these same songs again and again I would be satisfied, but no, there's more! The frantic punch of "Slow Drip, the string enhanced "Fractures in Plaster", the roaring twin guitar hum of "Learned to Surf"and the hyper punk workout "Rope Light". "Everything at Once" closes the album in majestic rocking style. Passionate vocals, sugar-coated guitar noise, great songs, if you like Husker Du at their melodic best you will love Superchunk! 

Something old....something new (#11)

I plan to review one golden oldie from my collection and one relatively new release that I really enjoyed each week. I welcome any ideas, comments or ideas for future topics.

"The La's" by The La's (originally released 1991 - remastered 2001)

    The one and only release by "The La's" is my favorite CD of the 90s! The brilliant pop eccentric Lee Mavers labored long and hard to produce this power britpop touchstone which is mainly remembered for the pure perfection of the sterling earworm "There She Goes". Overflowing with hooks, jangly guitars, unforgettable melodies and Maver's vocals (think Oasis) this is a cleanly produced pop/rock masterpiece! Opener "Son of a Gun" is a pretty song resting on a bed of acoustic guitars, "I Can't Sleep" comes out rocking and crashes into a short burst of a guitar solo, "Timeless Melody" features more chiming guitar, the hypnotically herky-jerkiness of "Way Out", the singalong joy of the ironically titled "Doledrum",  The hard rocking "Failure", the delightful falsetto voice and poppiness of "Feelin'" and so it goes for twelve tracks (17 on the remaster) of amazing precision pop. All the tunes clock in at around three minutes and have concise and beautifully constructed guitar solos until the epic eight minute finale of "Looking Glass" which ends amid rhythms accelerating to a noise filled crescendo. A bonus track highlight from the 2001 remaster is the punchy "Knock Me Down". It is astounding how much raw energy and life leaps from the speakers given the perfectionist mentality that went into the making of this album. I never tire of hearing these songs and if you want more there is a great BBC Sessions disc and lots of Youtube live footage (they sound great). Long live the pop perfection of The La's!

"The Pains of Being Pure at Heart" by The Pains of Being Pure at Heart (released 2009)

      The debut from this Brooklyn quartet is a delicious slice of dream pop. Ten wonderful tunes featuring warm fuzzy guitars, powerful choruses and winsome vocals that drive this album from the first note to the last. The hard charging beauty of "Come Saturday" is pure ear candy. "Young Adult Friction" employs nice harmonies and a scintillating choppy guitar break. "This Love is F**king Right!" is shoegazing music in the best way, a wash of beautiful rhythm and melody. "Everything With You" mines a similar vein while "Stay Alive" is a pretty ballad placed in the middle of the disc to nice effect. "A Teenager In Love" has an 80s vibe due to the synth sounds and is followed by "Hey Paul" a catchy two minute blast of pop/rock energy. "Gentle Sons" finishes off this musical treasure with a majestic wall of fuzzed out guitar noise. This short but incredibly beautiful focused effort may not break any new musical ground but it is a real pop rush (a top 5 pick for me in 2009) and I look forward to hearing the new "Pains of Being Pure at Heart" disc "Belong" which has just been released. 

Something old....something new(#10)

"Rush" by Rush (released 1974)

   The first album by this Canadian trio remains my favorite of all their releases. They portend to be nothing more than a great mid 70s hard rock band and succeed on every level. Recorded before uber-drummer Neil Peart would join the band and help steer them down the path of progressive/fantasy/rock megastardom this album is the oddball in their extensive catalog. The first track, "Finding My Way" fades in slowly until exploding with Geddy Lee's yelptastic voice and Alex Lifeson's crushing guitar. Each song is full of memorable choruses and gobs of glorious crunching guitar riffs and solos. "Need Some Love" and "Take a Friend" lighten the mood before the heaviness of "Here Again" and "What You're Doing" spotlight Lifeson's guitar mastery. "In the Mood" is catchy boogie rock (complete with cowbell) that will keep your head bobbing and have you singing along on the chorus. "Before and After" begins as a beautiful instrumental ballad before switching gears to a charging rock monster. Finally, "Working Man" is the classic masterpiece that closes the album. Beginning with an instantly recognizable heavy riff  Geddy sings about the universal struggle of surviving the daily grind and delivers us to the solo where Lifeson has his "Free Bird" moment and propels the tune into the stratosphere! Critics may dismiss this album as Led Zeppelin lite but the songs easily stand on their own and Geddy Lee's voice is unlike any other in rock helping to make this album a classic gem that still sounds fresh and vital today. What a RUSH!

"Wounded Rhymes" by Lykke Li (released 2011)

   Lykke Li is the latest in a line of outstanding Swedish pop/rock acts (Caesars, Soundtrack of Our Lives, Loney Dear, etc...) that are deserving of more attention in America. Produced by Bjorn Yttling (of Peter, Bjorn & John) this release is a huge step forward from her 2008 debut "Youth Novels" where she seemed musically unsure and inconsistent from one song to the next. "Wounded Rhymes" commands your attention on every track with dense production and bold vocals. Most of the tracks strongly echo the reverb-filled wall of sound 60s girl group productions in the best way. Her riveting voice has a cold charm that is hard to resist and leaves the impression that here is a girl capable of anything (good and otherwise). This last quality is blindingly clear via the Bo Diddley tribal stomp and foreboding lyrics of the ominous "Get Some". "Youth Knows No Pain", "I Follow Rivers" and  "Jerome" start with percussive polyrhythms leading to huge choruses of multi-tracked vocals. "Love Out of Lust" and "Sadness is a Blessing" are gorgeous tunes with Lykke Li letting down her guard and showcasing beautiful vocals over blissful melodies. The album closes with the good vibes of "Silent My Song"which is very reminiscent of "Best Coast" (see something old...something new #1). "Wounded Rhymes" is a remarkable achievement by Lykke Li and should be near the top of my Best of 2011 list!

Something old....something new(#9)

"The Wild, The Innocent & the E  Street Shuffle" by Bruce Springsteen (released 1973)

The sophomore release from Bruce Springsteen lives up to all the promise and brilliance foreshadowed on "Greetings From Asbury Park". A working class kid from Freehold, New Jersey presents a panorama of city life with some of the most stunningly original street poetry ever set to music. Each song is populated with characters (Spanish Johnny, Puerto Rican Jane, Rosalita, Kitty, Sandy, Madam Marie, Billy) and stories so fully realized that they are indelibly stamped into your consciousness forever. These songs are bursting at the seams with the energy of youth when anything seems possible. Springsteen's transcendent lyrics transform grimy urban street scenes into universal visions of hope and beauty. Each song seems a living thing, using a wide variety of intrumentation to paint vivid imagery in your mind. You can feel the heat and dust rising from the street during "The E Street Shuffle"(dig the funky guitar and brass). Hear the boardwalk sounds and young hearts beating in the romance of "4th of July Asbury Park (Sandy)" (courtesy of Dan Federici's Accordion). A stinging guitar solo kicks off the cool rock/jazz of "Kitty's Back" (Powerful guitar and organ solos take things to a fever pitch). Side two is my favorite of any album ever released! Beginning with the gorgeous cinema verite of "Incident on 57th Street" through the pull-out-all-the-stops, dream-come-true, redemption party that is "Rosalita" and ending with the stunning "New York Serenade" featuring strings and sensational piano by David Sancious. "Born to Run" would cement Springsteen's status as one of rock music's greatest writers but he has never equalled the incredible poetry, narratives and arrangements found on this release.

"Up From Below" by Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros (released 2009)

My favorite release from 2009 is a time machine back to the late 60s/early 70s when people would congregate for the sheer joy of creating music. It is so refreshing to find this brilliant diamond in the sea of garbage the corporations promote as "music". This group of 10 to 12 west coast (where else?) musicians are led by writer/vocalist Alex Ebert and excel at delivering community hippie rock in it's most endearing form. There is a lot of music here and they are somehow able to present it with such a loose natural feel it's as if they are recording first takes but nothing could be further from the truth. Each song is complex in arrangement and structure yet the performances shine with effortless energy. Ebert has a clear expressive voice and when Jade Castrinos joins in the songs reach a truly magical level. The first two tunes "40 Day Dream" and "Janglin'" are contagiously addictive singalongs and let you know immediately that you are in for a treat. The tempos, rhythms and arrangements change from song to song creating an "I can't wait to hear what's next" atmosphere. From the beautiful reverb drenched vocals of "Desert Song" to the hypnotic and melodic "Please Come In". The centerpiece of this album is the iridescent "Home". The whistling intro leading to Alex and Jade trading lines with lyrics so corny ("Alabama, Arkansas, I sure love my ma and pa") you can't help but love every minute of it. The quality and variety on this disc is astounding and I can not recommend it highly enough. Get your inner hippie vibe on and enjoy!

Something old....something new (#8)

"Hunky Dory" by David Bowie (released 1971)

   A grand statement and seminal album in David Bowie's career "Hunky Dory" finds all the pieces coming together which would result in the epic glam-rock masterpiece "Ziggy Stardust & the Spiders From Mars". The "Spiders" are all accounted for; Trevor Bolder - bass, Mick Woodmansey - drums and the great Mick Ronson - guitar. The songwriting is rich and powerful with the arrangements heavy on piano (courtesy of Rick Wakeman), outstanding lyrics, melody and deftly placed strings. Opening with the teen angst of "Changes" this album presents an impressive variety of music. "Fill Your Heart" and "Kooks" are pop delights performed in Bowie's Anthony Newleyesque vocal style. The weird and rhythmically engaging "Andy Warhol" and folk rocking "Song for Dylan" are heartfelt and genre appropriate tributes for two of his idols. The beautiful "Quicksand" is driven by piano, strings and Bowie's finest croon. "The Bewlay Brothers" is another strong ballad with atmospheric guitar and lyrics speedily tripping off the tongue. My two favorite tracks are the glam rocking guitar workout "Queen Bitch" which would sound right at home on "Ziggy Stardust" and the sublime "Life on Mars?" An incredibly moving piano driven tune with soaring vocals on the chorus,  gorgeous guitar breaks and heart aching strings sweeping it over the top. "Hunky Dory" is the first great Bowie album and a signpost of what was to come from one of this generations greatest musical artists.

"Here's To Taking It Easy" by Phosphorescent (released 2010)

   Phosphorescent is basically singer/songwriter/multi-intrumentalist Matthew Houck. He is joined on the album by a complete band and they produce an achingly beatific slice of rootsy Americana rock (think Wilco and Neil Young). Slide and lap steel guitars slither and swim through each song weaving a shimmering bed for Houck's cracked yearning voice. As the album opens you are swept up by the punchy horns of "It's Hard to be Humble (when you're from Alabama)". Most of the tracks lock into mid-tempo grooves that build to beautifully woozy choruses. The guitar interplay on each song is laid back yet spectacular, as if they are anticipating each other's moves (it's a beautiful thing). "The Mermaid Song" is a perfect amalgamation of all these strengths. "I Don't Care if There's Cursing" repeats a simple melody over and over so perfectly you can't get enough of it. "Hej, Me I'm Light" is a hypnotic mantra performed solely by Houck on instruments and vocals. Two more highlights are "Heaven, Sitting Down" which is a great singalong country classic in the making and the nine minute epic "Los Angeles" which  closes the album out on a very Neil Young like note amid dueling guitars and waves of pedal steel. This is a big sounding record that I like more and more every time I play it. Here's to taking it easy!

Something old....something new (#7)

Each week I will dust off an old favorite from my collection and also review a relatively new release that I have been enjoying. So buy 'em!

"Talking Book" by Stevie Wonder (released 1972)

   Stevie Wonder is an undisputed musical genius and "Talking Book" is a snapshot of him working at his absolute peak. His early pop singles were individual gems but his writing, performance (he plays almost every instrument on the album) and production work coalesce to create the album all his subsequent releases would be measured by. This tour de force of pop, soul and funk opens with the  bubbling singalong "You are the Sunshine of my Life". "Maybe Your Baby" follows with a deep funky groove assisted by some nice guitar from Ray Parker Jr. "You and I" is a beautifully sung ballad highlighting Stevie's soulful voice. "Tuesday Heartbreak" has omnipresent sax icon David Sanborn, but everything leads up to the LP's musical summit of "Superstition". Beginning with drums then followed by his distinct funk-flavored clavinet, punchy horns and snarling/wailing vocals Stevie takes us on one of the greatest musical trips of all time! It's a song with a groove so heavy you wish it would go on indefinitely (I guess that's what the "repeat" button is for). "Big Brother" has a bouncy melody pushed along by the clavinet/harmonica interplay. "Lookin' for another Pure Love" is a pretty ballad with some nice guitar from Jeff Beck and closing out the release is the hope-filled, blissfully epic "I Believe (When I fall in Love it will be Forever). Stevie's other albums from this period are remarkable ("Innervisions" "Fulfillingness' First Finale" "Songs in the Key of Life") but "Talking Book" remains my favorite.

"King of the Beach" by Wavves (released 2010)

   Wavves is basically Nathan Williams who began writing and releasing homemade lo-fi recordings as a teenager. With this release he emerges from his bedroom to record in a studio environment and the songs sparkle all the more for it. Things get off to a rollicking start with the driving guitar/drum title track and the energy rarely lets up. "Super Soaker", "Idiot", "Linus Spacehead" and "Green Eyes" further the manic indie magic. "When Will You Come", "Take on the World" and "Baseball Cards" are twisted 60s beach-flavored pop tunes. "Post Acid" is a big guitar clanging hit with a uniquely awesome bridge that will have you moaning, groaning and screaming along with Nathan. The entire album gives off a fun carefree party atmosphere which seems to accurately reflect Williams's slacker/stoner reputation. The twelve songs fly by and beg to be played again (which I have happily been doing for months). This is such a huge step forward for Wavves in every respect (writing, production, performance) that I can't wait to hear how the young Nathan Williams follows up this sterling sophomore effort. If your life could use a shot of super catchy indie rock noise give "King of the Beach" a spin (you'll be glad you did).

Something old....something new (#6)

"The Yes Album" by Yes (released 1971 - remastered  2003)

  This is the album that made the fledgling genre of Progressive Rock worth listening to. The triumvirate of ELP, Genesis and Yes had been around a couple years offering a variety of interesting but uneven releases until this master stroke arrived. There are plenty of extended suites featuring quick rhythm and time signature changes but never at the expense of the songs which remain imminently listenable. The album gets off to a brilliant start with the group-penned "Yours is No Disgrace" which allows ample space for each member to shine. Next is "The Clap" a Steve Howe showcase of Chet Atkins style finger-picking before side one closes out with the amazing "Starship Trooper". Composed of 3 parts (each written by a different member) the song soars through each piece culminating with "Wurm" a hypnotic 3 chord instrumental that climaxes amid a splattering of guitar fireworks. Side two is every bit as strong with stirring vocal harmonies and Tony Kaye's majestic B-3 organ propelling the classic "All Good People". The album ends as spectacularly as it began with the driving "Perpetual Change". The musicianship on this album is incredible! As the newest member, Steve Howe's guitar swims in and out of every track (made for headphones) imprinting itself into the band's DNA. Chris Squire is the rare breed of bass player (McCartney, Entwhistle)  that can carry a song melodically as well as rhythmically and his work here is nothing short of astonishing! Add Bill Bruford's endlessly creative drumming and Anderson's pure choirboy-like vocals and you have a prog-rock masterpiece!

"Infinite Arms" by Band of Horses (released 2010) 

      This is the third album by Band of Horses and it follows the template set by their first two excellent releases "Cease to Begin" and "Everything All the Time". Showcasing a mix of big vocal harmonies, gorgeous choruses and guitar driven Americana songwriting, vocalist/guitarist Ben Bridwell leads his band through thirteen songs reflecting the great American landscape. From the opener "Factory" through the final notes of the epic ballad "Bartles & James" this is a release of consistently high quality. A highlight of every song are the lush harmonies reminiscent of "Fleet Foxes (another personal favorite). This is mainly a mellow affair focusing on the beautifully layered harmonies but there is variety here, "Laredo" is a nice rocker and my favorite on the album. "Compliments" and "Northwest Apartment" also amp up the energy level. "Evening Kitchen" features only guitar and vocal to nice effect. The title track uses strings to frame it's laid back vibe and "Dilly" is a pop rocker with chopping guitar and keyboards leading the way. It's always a treat to hear an album that is so well crafted and completely enjoyable. You really can't go wrong with any "Band of Horses" release.

Something old....something new (#5)

"Warehouse: Songs & Stories" by Husker Du (released 1987)

    Roaring out of the frozen wastes of Minnesota in the 1980s Husker Du blazed a heavily fuzzed out pop/rock trail that has influenced the alternative music scene to this day. Guitarist/vocalist Bob Mould and drummer/vocalist Grant Hart were the Lennon/McCartney of punk rock, creating a catalog of well crafted songs that peaked with this, their final release. With a wash of clean vocals, waves of distorted guitars and an airtight rhythm section Husker Du created it's Magnum Opus. The performances and production are flawless, resulting in a double album that is a joy to listen to from beginning to end. It all fits neatly together from the hook-filled opener "These Important Years" to the pop/fuzz of "Could You Be the One", "Friend, You've Got to Fall" and "Turn it Around" to the pounding psychedelia of "She Floated Away" to the rockabilly rave-up of "Actual Condition" and so it goes for twenty (count 'em 20) songs! A sheen of melodic vocals over the razors-wrapped-in-velvet guitar crunch resulting in their trademark sound. Give this album a spin and revel in the beautifully heavy yet melodic genius of Husker Du!

"The Soft Pack" by The Soft Pack (released 2010)

   This California quartet is on a mission to bring new life to the garage/indie rock genre and succeed admirably. Songs contain fine vocals, driving rhythms and big dare-you-not-to-singalong choruses. The album begins with the rocking hook-filled one-two punch of "C'mon" and "Down on Loving". The manic pace rarely lets up as the ten songs and thirty-two minutes fly by. Reverb drenched guitars give some tunes such as "More or Less" and "Tides of Time" a surf aura while others like "Pull Out" and "Flammable" are straight ahead pounding rockers. "Mexico" is the lone ballad and exudes a cool beach vibe. It can be very difficult to make much of a musical impression with the standard guitar/bass/drums lineup but The Soft Pack pulls it off. Their urgency and energy shine through in the songwriting and performances making this one of my favorite releases of 2010.

Something old...something new (#4)

Each week I plan to review one golden oldie from my collection and one relatively new release that I have really enjoyed. Now go out and buy 'em!

"Led Zeppelin IV" by Led Zeppelin (released 1971)

   Sitting atop the pantheon of hard rock are the incomparable "Led Zeppelin". Jimmy Page/Robert Plant/John Paul Jones/John Bonham blasted onto the music scene fully formed with their debut album in 1969 and transformed the musical landscape forever. With this, their fourth release, they record a masterpiece. "Black Dog" opens with Plant's distinctive wail and a massive guitar riff powering the song through five minutes of rock bliss. Bonham's crashing drums and Page's kerranging guitar launch the iconic "Rock and Roll". The mandolin driven "Battle of Evermore" slows things down a bit and highlights Plant's amazing vocals! His voice spine-tinglingly echoing back for the last minute and a half. "Stairway to Heaven" closes out side one as a perfectly structured song from beginning to end. Starting with fingerpicked guitars and flute, building gradually as the drums and electric guitars kick in and climaxing with the penultimate guitar solo in rock history (there, I said it). Side two gets off to a flying start with the bouncy rocker "Misty Mountain Hop" and the driving "Four Sticks". "Going to California" is a beautiful ballad featuring mandolin and a more laid back vocal from Plant (much as he sounds 40 years later). The album ends with the heavy blues of "When the Levee Breaks". Bonham's bone crushing drums push and pull the rhythm as Plant's harmonica signals the impending doom. Page's production on this release is a marvel with layers of guitars swimming through your brain. The variety and quality of the songs is staggering, showing why this album deserves every accolade that has been heaped upon it. Listen to it and be amazed all over again.

"Go" by Jonsi (released 2010)

   Jonsi is the leader of the Icelandic band "Sigur Ros", a group which has produced a unique brand of brooding yet beautiful music featuring his ethereal vocals. You can see the band perform in a variety of Icelandic settings on the DVD "Heima" (highly recommended). On this, his debut solo album, he sings mainly in English for the first time and many of the accompanying songs have a more upbeat and joyful tone than his "Sigur Ros" material. The centerpiece of every song is Jonsi's heartachingly glorious vocals. Whether he sings in English, Icelandic or Wookie is beside the point, it's the sound of his voice that captivates. When he launches into his heavenly falsetto it's as if you are hearing the crystalline purity in the ice of his homeland. The overall sound favors a minimalist approach with percussion, flutes, keyboards  and strings appearing as needed but never interfering with the vocals. Each song has it's own beauties and unforgettable moments. "Go Do", "Boy Lilikoi"and "Around Us" are the most pop-like tunes. There is a melancholy hovering over many of these songs "Hengilas", "Tornado", "Kolniour" and "Grow Till Tall" (the falsetto refrain will bring tears) that haunt you long after the song is over. Jonsi is a singular talent who has produced a stunning, emotional debut and I anxiously await his next musical step.

Something old....something new (#3)

"John Barleycorn Must Die" by Traffic (originally released 1970 -
remastered 2001)

   My house is burning and I can only save an armful of albums, this is among the first I'm scooping up. Traffic's finest moment started as a Steve Winwood solo project and morphed into a full blown Traffic album as Chris Wood (sax & flute) and Jim Capaldi (percussion) returned to the fold. Recorded in the English countryside, it is the perfect atmospheric storm of folk, rock and jazz with Winwood's soulfully keening voice atop the mix. The album begins with the piano driven instrumental "Glad" which leads directly into "Freedom Rider". Both tunes allow ample space for masterful sax and flute improvisation. "Empty Pages" features Winwood's incredible Hammond B3 organ and soul searing vocals. "Stranger to Himself" finds Winwood playing a scorching guitar. Is there anything this musical genius can't do? (answer - no). Next we hear a beautifully moving version of a traditional English folk song "John Barleycorn". The release ends with the epic "Every Mother's Son". Seven minutes of soaring guitar, organ and another stunning vocal  performance. These songs effortlessly flow together creating the all-to-rare release that demands to be listened to in it's entirety, and you will, again and again. A PERFECT ALBUM! The remaster's sound is excellent and includes two fine bonus tracks from the sessions which fit the mood of the release.

"Big Echo" by The Morning Benders (released 2010)

  My introduction to The Morning Benders was the fantastic opening track "Excuses"(a big reverb soaked tune with a string section and a dare-you-not-to-singalong chorus). I was hooked immediately but  couldn't believe they would sustain that high quality for a complete LP, happily I was wrong. This is a huge sounding record employing a gorgeous wall of sound throughout. Layers of percussion, guitars and harmony-laden vocals result in rich soundscapes and a rewarding listening experience. The album begins with the sound of a needle touching vinyl so be ready for echoes of the best 60s music in the arrangements and production (think Brian Wilson and Beatles). All this would mean nothing if the writing wasn't so strong. Each song has it's individual sonic charms and highlights. "Cold War (Nice Clean Fight)" is a quick burst of catchy pop. "Promises" swims in a psychedelic soup of guitars and harmonies. "All Day Daylight" begins with melodic verses that build to an anthemic chorus. This is The Morning Benders second release and you can call it chillwave, mellow or retro, but whatever the label it's a very enjoyable album that I have played often over the past year.

Something old....something new (#2)

"The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get" by Joe Walsh (released 1973)

    Joe Walsh follows up his outstanding solo debut "Barnstorm" with this masterpiece. He is one of the finest rock guitarist of all time, a rare musician whose style is so distinctive that you can identify him within a few notes. His unmatched tone and fluid slide work are weaved masterfully into each song. Following the iconic chugging rocker "Rocky Mountain Way" are two ethereal songs heavy on keyboards and melody ("Book Ends" and "Wolf"). It's amazing how the synthesizers are used so organically on this album, never sounding out of place or dated, even today. It's a testament to Walsh's incredible writing and arranging skills that the guitar is not forced to carry every song, he chooses his spots and plays the most tasteful fills and leads imaginable. Side two begins with the scat/scream/"My Woman From Tokyo" riffage of "Meadows" and ends with a trio of mellow dreamscapes. My favorite being "Days Gone By" driven by Joe Vitale's flute you can feel that this track is building up to something and does it ever! The 45 second flute/guitar break is the transcendent highlight of an album full of such moments. This is a release made for headphones so close your eyes and enjoy the trip. The best part is knowing that when you awaken from the beautiful refrain of the closer "(Day Dream) Prayer" you can hit "repeat" and do it all again.

"Halcyon Digest" by Deerhunter (released 2010)

   Deerhunter produces some of the dreamiest pop music out there today. This is their finest and most accessible release yet due to the focus on sharper, tighter songs. Deerhunter is led by musical genius, Bradford Cox, whose voice has a unique crystalline quality transporting you deep into his dreamy pop world. "Earthquake" gets the album off to a promising start with it's slo-mo rhythm and shimmering guitar. Next, we get the narcoleptic haze of "Don't Cry" followed by the hook laden tracks "Revival" and "Memory Boy". Other highlights include the beautiful, quivery "Helicopter", the sax-infused "Coronado" and pop blast of "Fountain Stairs". "Desire Lines" is trademark Deerhunter beginning with a spacey melody and than riding an instrumental groove for the final four minutes of the song (trust me, you'll wish it was twice as long). The album ends with "He Would Have Laughed" a tribute to the late indie rocker, Jay Reatard. It's a heartfelt musical eulogy and a nice closer to a terrific record. This release was my favorite of 2010, it's beautiful arrangements and production reward repeated listens.

Something old....something new (#1)

I plan to review one golden oldie from my collection and one relatively new release that I really enjoyed each week. I welcome any ideas, comments or ideas for future topics.

"Exile on Main Street" by the Rolling Stones (originally released 1972 - remastered 2010)

   Arguably one of the greatest rock 'n' roll records of all time, but you'll get no argument from me. Not since the Sun Sessions have you heard rock 'n' roll's rise from the primordial ooze of blues, r&b, country and gospel like this! Erupting with "Rocks Off" ending with the magnificent "Soul Survivor" and through 16 tracks in between you are taken on a hair-raising ride through the history of America's musical roots. Mick Taylor's guitar playing is extraordinary (especially the slide work). Keith Richards rhythm guitar digs grooves deep enough to bury lesser talents. The horn section (brought out beautifully in the remaster) and gospel singers enhance every song they appear on. It's all pulled off in loose, seemingly effortless performances from a grungy, hot, dirty basement studio and is all the better for it. The manic "Rip This Joint" and "Turd on the Run", lowdown blues of "Shake Your Hips" and "Ventilator Blues", country honk of "Sweet Virginia" and "Torn & Frayed", pure rock 'n' roll of "Happy" and "All Down the Line" IT ALL WORKS! The second disc of the 2010 remaster includes 10 unreleased songs and alternate takes. The revamped single "Plunder My Soul" is a solid effort but my favorite is an alternate take of "Soul Survivor" that features Keith on lead vocals and crushing guitar interplay with Mick Taylor.

"Crazy For You" by Best Coast (released 2010)

   The debut album from the duo of Bethany Consentino and Robb Bruno is a soundtrack for your favorite day at the beach. In a perfect world these tunes would be blaring in unison from every boombox as you stroll down the boardwalk. The songs are bubbly Brill Building pop fronted by Consentino's commandingly beautiful voice. She croons enough "Whoa whoas" and "ooh oohs" to float away on while the heavily reverbed vocals and guitars add to the whole summer aura. Each song is a sun-soaked gem, sparkling brightly though briefly, like facets of the same diamond. "Boyfriend" and "Crazy for You" have received the most airplay but any song on the disc could be a hit single. "Honey" sounds like a great lost Raveonettes cut. My current favorite is "When the Sun Don't Shine" but that could change in a moment because this release is so solid. I know it's January and there's half a foot of snow outside but pass the sunblock.

Welcome Fellow Rockers!

This blog is dedicated to all the incredible Rock 'N' Roll artists who make life so much richer for us through their music. Whatever the world throws at you (and it can be cruel) no matter how beat up, beat down, used, abused, overworked, underpaid or exhausted (physically, emotionally and mentally) you are, there is a tune for what ails you. It's just a button away (radio, CD player, iPod, Turntable, Keyboard). There is more great music out there today than ever, you just have to dig a little harder and a little deeper through the crap that we are told is popular to get to the real deal. There is a never ending avalanche of sonic gold out there and it sure is fun mining it! A new song from an old favorite? Always cool! A new group you've never heard before? Even better, there's a whole new body of work for you to explore! Find the sounds that touch your soul and let the healing begin... because sometimes that's all you need.