really enjoyed each month. I welcome any ideas, comments or ideas for future topics.
"Moontan" by Golden Earring (released 1973)
In a banner year for rock music a band from Holland explodes seemingly overnight when in fact this group has existed since 1961 and remains active with the same members circa 1970! The rhythm section of Rinus Gerritsen (bass) and Cesar Zuiderwijk (drums) anchor the soundscape allowing George Kooyman's stinging guitar to leisurely explore every sonic angle imaginable while Barry Hay's commanding vocals are Daltreyesque. Opening with the instantly recognizable top 20 single "Radar Love" Kooyman's slide guitar propels the drums/bass intro into overdrive and we're off! "Candy's Going Bad" has a sinister simmering guitar groove that builds from verse to chorus with a long instrumental break to the fade. This will become a pattern for many of the songs on "Moontan" but never to their deficit. "Vanilla Queen" has a percolating synth line giving way to a beautiful acoustic guitar break that leads to the dramatic finish amid electric guitar, horns and an ever swelling string section. "Big Tree, Blue Sea" presents a dynamic opening of guitar and flute which meet again in the extended break that is reminiscent of the band "Audience". Over ten minutes "Are You Receiving Me" flows to a stunning meandering guitar solo that careens into the final chorus. "Moontan" remains a distinctly unique album, a little psychedelia, a little prog and a whole lot of Rock & Roll! Each song becomes a living, breathing entity free to wander it's own path. Golden Earring never reached these mind-blowing heights again but their next release "Switch" is also an excellent LP!
"Silver Age" by Bob Mould (released 2012)
Bob Mould's autobiography is subtitled The Trail of Rage and Melody which is an apt description of the man's best music. This album stands among his finest work with Husker Du and Sugar which were towering beacons of gorgeous guitar noise fusing punk and college rock. Mould sings of regret, loss, opportunities missed and wasted but the music remains driving and hopeful. "Star Machine" attacks the business of the music business amid chugging, wailing, fuzzed-out, 6-string redemption. "The Descent" contrasts downward spiraling lyrics with joyously pounding guitars and a transcendent chorus. "Keep Believing" temporarily breaks the mold to send us on a blazing four minute sugar rush. The vocals and production sparkle throughout while Superchunk's rhythm section of Jason Narducy (bass) and Jon Wurster (drums) provide Mould with the finest band of his career. There are no ballads on this album nor a weak cut, Bob Mould has crafted a modern day masterpiece! Here's to rage and melody!
