The ChickenFish Speaks - Music Reviews "C"

Cable - Never Trust A Gemini - CD
(Devil Doll Records) I shouldn't even review this crap, because the band is so stupid that they don't put any info on the CD itself except the name of the record label. (And if this is the fault of the record label, then they're the dumb asses.) Guess what guys, separate it from the package you send it in and it gets pitched. Which is what I'm going to do anyway, because this sounds like a 2-year-old having a temper tantrum.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

California - California - CD
(Trauma Records) When I first got this CD in the mail, I thought that I was going to hear balls-rockin' Texas hell music. But to my pleasant surprise my ears were filled with the sound of good solid rock with gut wrenching feeling. With a slight pinch of Southern-rock, a helping of 'Bon Jovi/late '80s styling, a heap of blues-rock groove and a whole lot of good time fun, this band is destined to hit the big time any minute. So if you have a chance go see them now before their concert tickets are $37.50 a pop.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Suzy Callahan - Happier Than Everybody Else - CD
(Scared Guy Music) Sweet female vocals and guitars gets this CD off on a good start. The first song is catchy and reminds me of the music I would listen to on college radio in the early '90s. After that this release goes quickly downhill. Most of the songs are too sing-songy, they sound like she wrote them when she was 13. There are two songs that help redeem the release a bit; "Happier than Everybody Else" and the Edie Brickel sounding "Until Yesterday". Take these 3 songs, add "You Don't Scare Me" as a bonus track, and Suzy would have her one solid E.P.
-- Mite Mutant (2005)

"Calvin, Don't Jump"- A Way With Birds - CD
(Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records) What we have here is a lo-fi recording of drums, piano, horns and a few other instruments strewn though out. The songs and pacing are painfully slow. My interest was lost halfway through the first song. However, I did stick with it and listened to this whole disc. It doesn't get any better.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Masha Campagne - Caminhos Cruzados=Crossroads - CD
(Impetus Records) Soft female vocals float over a sea of Brazilian-jazz music. Most of the lyrics are sung in a foreign language, but that doesn't matter, because Masha's cooing vocals are all you need. This is what I would expect the band Combustible Edison to sound like if they did straight on jazz. Sultry one minute and playful the next, the music pared with Masha's voice quickly has you under their spell.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Candiria - 300 Percent Density - CD
(Century Media Records) This CD is definitely 300% freakin excellent! This release has some much to offer , it is really unique in it's diversity. 300 Percent Density begins with pretty a common hardcore heavy metal sound. A little while into the CD, the band start to mix everything from Jazz to hip hop rap core sounds along with the metal. Candiria makes these styles work together on the album. I might describe this release as a mixture of Slayer, Biohazard, Fishbone, and Ice Cube. This is a CD not to be missed.
-- Johnny Death (2001)

The Candy Snatchers - Human Zoo! - CD
(Go Kart Records) Think of a hard rockin', punked up version of the band The Cult and you have The Candy Snatchers. This band is nothing short of pure rock intensity. This CD just socks you over the head with all the grace of a brick. I get all tired out just listening to this release. I now know what all the great buzz is all about that I've been reading about this band. Yeahhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Canned Heat 1967-1976 - The Boogie House Tapes - CD
(Ruf Records GmbH) Twenty-nine tracks on two discs of nothing but good old-fashioned blues-rock, or Boogie as Canned Heat likes to call it. According to legend, The Boogie House is the home of radio personality Walter De Paduwa aka Dr.Boogie, which has been a private museum dedicated to the preservation of, you guessed it, Boogie Music. The Boogie House Tapes is a compellation of preserved Canned Heat recordings made at the famous Boogie House, and newly released for your enjoyment. Veterans of Woodstock and Monterrey, these guys have a discography of nearly thirty releases, and if you don't believe me you can check with your parents. I had to.
-- Lizi (2001)

Capillaries - Overnight Lows And Daylight Savings - CD
(Water And Power Recordings) I hate to make this comparison again, since I have done it so recently, but there is no denying it, this band is heavily influenced by Weezer. This album is much more emo than Weezer and it just plain sucks. "I Can Fall", "My Old Things," and the hidden track seem to be the only three songs that do not sound like they were recorded through the McDonald's drive thru speaker. My advice, don't have a band member mix the CD. And the other people you had mix, just get rid of them too. Find someone that knows what they are doing, then you will have a quality album.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

Captain Destiny & the Motor Medics - Destination: 2049 - CD
(Rockalachian Records) The first half of this release just didn't cut it for me. They would have done well to cut out the first half of this CD completely. Now the rest of the release was way fun. This seems like a great entertaining band to see live. There are a couple of tunes that I really dug and those were the ska-sounding "Maggie I hope", the fun rappin' "3:00" and "Open Range". I give half this CD gets a yeah, while the other half gets a nay.
-- Regan (2001)

Captain of Industry - The Great Divide - CD
(Do-Tell Records) I finally had a chance to catch them live about a month ago and they were amazing. Captain of Industry is an oddly charming blend of emo, rock, post-punk and vaudeville. The disc is a bit different than their live show and just can't compete their live energy, but it is great nonetheless. Some songs drag on a bit "Hollywood sq", but most are engaging. Such as "Spacemen" with the great closing lyrics: "So shut your legs America, you spread them for all to see." In "Go Go's" I love the chorus background vocals and I swear they are channeling Brainiac on "Town", especially when they play live. Another great song is "Penguins" with Joey Santiago-esque guitar. Overall a great disc of an amazing live band.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Car 44 - Platinum Holes - CD
(Thirsty Ear Records) Hard rockin' alternative pop with female vocals. While this is a decent release overall, it just feels like the music and vocals don't go together. I can't really put my finger on it, but it's like if the singer sang with a different style of music and if another singer sang with the music on this release I would like both much better. Confusing I know.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Carbon Leaf - Echo Echo - CD
(Carbon Leaf) This album was released in 2001, but my friend Cindy just clued me into them and I am so happy that she did. Carbon Leaf is a great Celtic Rock band who play infectious, emotionally drenched music. On my first listening I fell in love with this release and they have made me a commited fan. I've tried to pick a favorite song, but each of them have so much meaning and draw such strong emotions from me. Take these sample lyrics from "Toy Soldiers" - "We find the people of our dreams. We find that they're not what they seem. I've learned that people come and go. I've learned that famalies break and grow". Everything about this band is excellent from the musicianship to the lyrics to the production. Easily one of the best ten bands which I've heard in the past couple of years.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

John Carlin - Songs from the Black House - CD
(Firehorse Records) Good singer songwriter folk alternative. Almost every song had it's own unique quality. The music, the vocals, even the lyrics were all great. I would probably recommend this to anyone who enjoys folk alternative, although this would not be the type of music I would listen to on a regular basis.
--Simi (2002)

Kenny Carr - Changing Tide - CD
(Kenny Carr) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Paul Carr - Musically Yours - CD
(PCJ) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Cars Can Be Blue - All The Stuff We Do - CD
(Happy Happy Birthday To Me Records) Dis' is da 'Teve's favorite CD of all time. I bet I listened to dis' disc over 137 times so far. Da songs are short and catchy, and with 20 tunes in a little over 32 minutes, you know your getting a good deal with 'dis disc. Dis band is kinda like da White Stripes, not in da music dey play, but in dat dey is a boy and a hot chick. Also, da hot chick plays guitar while da boy plays da drums. Dey is also more poppy and fun.

Some of da songs sound like dey would be on da South Park show in dat da subjuct matter is risky, but da songs are funny. Other songs are very sexual in nature and since da hot chick is singing dem, da 'Teve can't help but touch himself sometimes when he hears dem, especially while listenin' to da "Dirty Song" and "She Needs It", which da 'Teve almost feels is written, just for him. 'Teve just wish dey had more better pictures of da hot chick on their website.

There's not one bad song on dis release. Dey even make lyrics like "I'm drinking out of paper cups" sound catchy. Dis is a fun band dat da 'Teve hopes to hear more of in da future, especially da songs dat are about da 'Teve. Dip-Dip-Do-Wee-Ahoo-Wee.
-- 'Teve (2006)

Steve Carson Band - Kindness - CD
(SCB) I like this 5 song release, it's not great, but it's great expression. SCB blends haunting melodies with a driving bassline, which was a great way to pull the listener through the mediocre opening track. They let the second track almost fall flat before saving it with some strings at the chorus and Boom! you're listening to the opening of the third tune realizing that this is worth your time. These boys have talent and I hope they come about a bit more.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

Deana Carter - The Chain - CD
(Vangard Records) I knew the name sounded familiar, but not being a fan of country I didn't know who Deanna Carter really was. After reading up a bit I found out that she is one of the biggest country artists to come out of the mid 90s. On this disc she does twelve covers paying tribute to the musicians that inspired her. She even does duets with some of the artists she is covering such as Dolly Parton and Kris Kristofferson. She also covers tunes by Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Waylon Jennings and Neil Young. Some of these come off really well, others fail quite badly and really shouldn't have been attempted. Deanna does come off rather well though and proves that she can cover quite a range of material.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Felicia Carter - Feather / Step Lightly - 2CD
(Alberta Records) I really had to look at the CD information to make sure this was fact a contemporary recording. This double CD set is like a time warp straight from the hey-day of cool jazz. Felicia Carter has an amazing voice that commands your attention and then melts your soul. Everything she sings is in that oh so sweet jazz style where you can feel the sensuality just below the surface. The band backing her up doesn't miss a beat and has such a classic sound you'd swear you were at a dance hall in the 30-40's. This one is going into my personal collection and will be getting quite a bit of play at parties and special occasions. If you want to hear true jazz at its best then get Felicia Carter and let her do the rest.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Johnny Cash - The Best of Johnny Cash 1986-1992 - CD
(Universal Records) The man in black and twelve of his traditional country songs. There's something I've always liked about Johnny Cash even though I'm not a fan of country. Even after all of his hard living he is still going strong at age seventy and is cooler than most twenty year olds think they are. Though this is a release of his greatest hits 1986-1992 it has many re-releases including "I Walk the Line" and my favorite "Folsom Prison Blues". For a dose of some good ol' country that won't make you heave, listen to a bit of the original man in black.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Cashew Head - 7 demo tracks - CD
Well, I think this kid's got a lot of potential. As far as I know this is his debut recording and it shows what a determined music fan can do all by his lonesome when he puts his mind to it. I guess I'd categorize this as light Darkwave; it's got the Front Line Assembly influences but it also has a pretty, melodic and upbeat feel to it. My only complaint (not much of one) would be the few annoying samples thrown in at inopportune moments which drone on and on for too long. Shit, if that's all I've got to rip on with this project, I'd say Cashew Head has nothing to worry about.
--Tom CoreKill (2001)

The Casket Lottery - Moving Mountains - CD
(Second Nature Recordings) While this release isn't that bad overall, it really didn't do a thing for me. The music will spank you, but the vocals seemed liked they relied on strained screaming too much throughout the disc.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Joe Cassady and the West End Sound - What's Your Sound - CD
(Avenue A Records) This band has a honky-tonk rock sound with vocals that remind me of Bob Kevoian from the Bob & Tom Show. The music's catchy highlighted by that distinctive honky-tonk guitar sound. While it's been a while since I heard anything from Web Wilder, for some reason a countrified Web Wilder came to mind while listening to this release. At times has a groove that reminds me of Jerry Reed, especially on "Warren G. Harding". Who would have thought a song named after a president would sound so good.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Francisco Castle - State and Main - CD
(Theif City Records) The music on this CD really isn’t bad. It’s a mellow, laid-back college rock folk style that really has a nice flow. However, I’ve had to stop this disc every time I’ve played it due to the repetitive, whiney, flat vocals. I seem to be able to endure five tracks before I have to shut it off and cleanse my ears with something else. It really is one of the most annoying things I have ever heard.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Cat-A-Tac - Past Lies And Former Lives - CD
(Needlepoint Records) I'm really enjoying this release of swirly college rock sounds infused with a dose of Brit-Pop. I'm picking up bits of the Dandy Warhols, Material Issue, The Posies and My Bloody Valentine in this wonderful mix of barely restrained vocals and layers of guitars. Some songs, like "Respite", build to an amazing wall of sound that is similar to Sonic Youth at its best, but without the escalation into actual feedback. There are a couple of forgettable tracks out of the eleven, but most are very strong and receive a lot of airplay at my house and on my mp3.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Catch 22 - Alone in a Crowd - CD
(Victory Records) Alright a new release from Catch 22. I've loved these guys since I first heard Keasby Nights back in 97. I felt their last release Washed Up wasn't quite as strong, but I think they've come back strong. If you love skapunk then Catch 22 should be in your CD player.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Cats & Jammers - Wholelottagoddamn - CD
(Cats&Jammers) On the music landscape chart Cats and Jammers lays somewhere between Ween and the Flaming Lips. And while the music is pure pop quirkiness and catchy beyond compare, the lyrics teeter on the edge of idiotic. Take the lyric "Then there's Anna Kournikova, I think I saw her vulva." It's like they were those nerdy guys in high school who tried to witty, but just come off as being sad and creepy.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Cavedoll - No Vertigo - CD
(KiteFishing Records) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Cesspool - I Can't Wait - CD
(Awesome Records) WOW! My first thought when I finished the first track was...WEEN? No it's not Ween, but Cesspool is similar, along with a bit of Primus thrown into the mix. You will either love or despise this band, even though after about 15 tracks I was ready for it to stop. This band appears to be all over the board, but really has their own style. It's some odd conglomeration of college rock, art rock, post punk, jazz fusion, noise and humour. Most of the songs hover between two and three minutes in length and only go on too long, when they are meant to go on too long in an effort to annoy or confound. I found many of their songs sticking in my head, but the most stubborn were "Clindex", "The Dormitory of the Unloved" and "Three Silly Love Songs". Cesspool is by far the most original and different band I have heard this year. Different is good and Cesspool is great!
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Chadwick - Blood Soaked World - CD
(Chadwick) Burdened with atrocious musicianship, this release fails to deliver anything more than disappointment. Chadwick’s vocal melodies loosely resemble Marianne Faithful doing poor Gregorian chants sung through a toilet paper tube into a broken microphone. The drums sound like they were miked in a different room from the actual kit and the bass is fatally bland. Did I forget to mention that the guitars are no more than samples? Even the horribly done cover of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” is completely sampled except for the words; can Chadwick say karaoke? This is the worst of the worst acid/trance/techno/experimental/death rock swill I’ve ever heard EXCEPT for “Blood Soaked World Intro“. That track is a collection of samples from 9/11 dispatch calls and news reports of President George W. Bush vowing to “hunt down and punish those responsible for these cowardly acts", however, Chadwick screws it all up with the somber and lethargic “Blood Soaked World (Part 1)”. How do you build it all up, throw in the adrenalin but then give us no outlet for release? Damn him and the drum machine he rode in on. If anyone needs a coaster, the dollar store sells them cheaper than this.
--Chavez Trepas (2006)

Greg Chako - Paint a Picture, Tell a Story... - CD
(Greg Chako) This reminds me of the stuff I used to play while in jazz band back in high school. While I appreciated the music for it's technical aspect, I never really felt it strongly within me. That's how I feel about this release by Greg Chako. Guitar led jazz played really well by some amazing musicians, but none of the songs reach me. An interesting note I gleamed from the liner notes is that the musicians are from all over the world, but currently residing in Southern Asia. If you can appreciate straight jazz then you will love this release.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Greg Chako - Everybody's Got a Name - CD
(Greg Chako) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Kasey Chambers - Barricades and Brickwalls - CD
(Warner Brothers Records) I was flipping through the stations on my radio while driving to work when I heard some great female vocals to a song that fit me perfectly, "Am I Not Pretty Enough", drawing me immediately to this talented Australian artist. I rushed out to buy this CD as soon as I could. The CD is a great comp of bluegrass with attitude ("so I grabbed a glass and said kiss my ass I'm gonna drink you out of my head." From the 5th track "A Little Bit Lonesome") and country twang mixed with an alternative twist. A definite with diversity.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)

James Chance & The Contortions - Soul Exorcism Redux - CD
(ROIR) The sticker on this release informs me that it's a remastered release of a classical recording by the no wave/drug-funk/skee jazz band James Chance & the Contortions. To me it sounds like crap. The sound on this live recording sounds like it was done on a tape recorder hooked up to a sound board. I would hate to hear what it sounded like before it was remastered. The vocals are horrid, the horns are awash in repetition and the playing is sloppy. No Thanks.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Chang Wording Girl - Neon Eon - CD
(Metal Postcard) There is not very much I can say about this recording. Neon Eon is one track that clocks in at twenty-three minutes and forty-six seconds. It sounds like somebody just banged the back of a guitar neck to get weird sounds and feedback. This CD does not have a groove, a melody, a tempo, a beat, a verse, a chorus, or a hook. There are some samples and cool effects backing a little bit of dialogue but it seems so pointless. Neon Eon does have one thing going for it, though, and that's ambiance. The disc does have a slight eeriness to it. If you're dressing up your house for a Halloween Haunt Chang Wording Girl's Neon Eon may help to creep out your guests.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

Chaotic Dischord - Chaotic Dischord - CD
(Punk Core Records) This is standard barking hardcore. Nothing really special, but if you're into it then you'll like this.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Chappaquiddick Skyline - Chappaquiddick Skyline - CD
(Sub Pop Records) This is one of the mellowest CD's that I have ever listened to. Featuring Joe Pernice of Pernice Brothers on vocals, this band will sing you right to sleep. This whole CD is like a great lullaby. The music and vocals compliment each other very well, as both are soft and well structured. Acoustical dreams await you when you listen to this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Chargers Street Gang - Holy the Bop Apocalypse - CD
(Get Hip Records) These guys remind me of Rocket From the Crypt but a little rawer. I think I'd like them live, but on a CD they don't do all that much for me. A little too repetitive and nothing that really gets me psyched up and feeling good.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Frances Charlotte - Emerald - CD
(Tangled Records) Track 1 - Hey, this is pretty good. Sound kinda like Eleni Mandell with a bit of Dresden Dolls in the delivery. Track 2 - Is this still track 1? Track 3 - This has to be the most repetitious guitar strumming ever. Track 4 - Yup, the same strumming as track 3. Track 5 - Oh Lord, she's trying to sneak in the same strumming that she used on track 3 and 4 by playing it softer. Track 6 - Yay, something that sounds a bit different. Too bad it's really not that good. End of CD.
-- Simi Mutant (2007)

Scott Chasolen - Magnify - CD
(Scott Chasolen) The music of Scott Chasolen is piano based with a musical and vocal style that borders on lounge jazz. The vocals are smooth and while the songs aren't that bad I don't feel that they stand out too much either. If this release were better or worse I would find more to say about it, but since it's just hanging out in the middle this is all there is.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Che Chapter 127 - Profit Prophet - CD
(G-7 Welcoming Committee) Seeing as they are named after the famous revolutionary, Che Guevara you know that they are a politically charged band...and you're absolutely right. Che Chapter 127 is a female fronted political hardcore band. They are better than most bands of this style and have a sound that is similar to Pet UFO. I like them even if I don't agree with everything they sing about...however I think it's really cool that inside the cover they have a suggested website and booklist and a small rant talking about how revolution is what you make it, not a style or other rules which you have to conform with to be considered an activist. I totally agree.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Richard Cheese - The Sunny Side of the Moon - CD
(Surfdog Records) What do you initially think of when you think lounge music? It's probably not Nirvana's "Rape me" nor Korn’s "Freak on a leash". This album covers hits like these in lounge style. I was initially leery in how good this CD would actually be, but I was really impressed. Richard Cheese is fun to listen to and it is about impossible not to laugh when he sings the word "fuck". Imagine a lounge version of Nine Inch Nails' "Closer". It's pretty interesting. All of the songs mentioned are on this album along with many other songs we all know and love. This is definitely a keeper.
-- Lola (2006)

The Cheetah Girls - TCG - CD
(Hollywood Records) The Cheetah Girls are just another of your basic cookie cutter girl pop trio. Complete with vocal gymnastics, chintzy lyrics and standard pop sound this is one of those bands where the sole purpose is just to sell merchandise to impressionable young girls and make as much money in a short amount of time as they can. In the future when people reminisce about their youth, the Cheetah Girls won't be a part of that soundtrack.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Cherish - The Truth - CD
(Capitol Records) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Cherry Black - Bright Black - CD
While the songs were catchy at first, the unending repetitiveness of the songs just got to me after awhile. A simple rap style over 'whanka whanka' guitar, funky synth, and steady beats is what you're in for when you put this disc in your player.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

The Cherry Poppin' Daddies - Susquehanna - CD
(Space Age Bachelor Pad) The Daddies are back and doing what they are known for…rocking out several genres on the same disc. Yeah, many people only associate the Daddies with swing, but people who heard them before the Zoot Suit Riot compilation know that swing is just a small slice of their pie. They take a wild ride through rockabilly, latin influenced rock, punk, ska, flamenco and yes even swing. Some songs are about ruined by the turn of a single phrase, such as “Wingtips”, but others are new classics like “Blood Orange Sun”. Overall Susquehana is one of the best albums put out this year and will most likely be overlooked by the mainstream due to its diversity. If you love to hear a band of extremely talented musicians playing a whole lot of different styles then the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will fill that void and get you on your feet.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Chi Cheng - The Bamboo Parachute - CD
Okay, here's an example of one of the downfalls of CD technology being so inexpensive. This is a disc of one guy reading his poetry. It's seems like he's approaching it in a laid back fashion. What is comes across as is boring. His reading is done in monotone and the overall presentation is boring. While the poetry itself isn't bad, it's presentation on this disk takes away from the words.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Chicane Theory - Lose Track of Time - CD
(Chicane Theory) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Chinenye - Change - CD
(Black Aviator Records) Fairly lackluster rap from a guy named Chinenye. The beats are decent, but nothing great and the vocals flow fairly well, but at times sound forced. I think he has some potential, but he needs to develop it before he gets back into the studio.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Chixdiggit - From Scene To Shining Scene - CD
(Honest Don's) Do chicks really dig this Ramonesy pop punk? Write to Mr. X care of this zine with your answers. Official Howard X Best Friend Eric swears by these guys and has even called this copy as his when I am done with it. Now normally this would be a stellar recommendation except for the fact that he is right in the middle of this hideous Beatles phase and so his judgment is a little suspect right now.
-- Howard X (2001)

Choking Victim - Squatta's Paradise - CD
(Tent City Records) Punk with skank and crunchy vocals. Full of great music that you can mosh to. (and I mean good old punk rock mosh, not the lame shit that frat boys do to "modern rock"). This is what it's all about kids. What 'it' is, I have no fuckin' clue.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Chomsky, Noam - The New War on Terrorism: Fact or Fiction - CD
(G-7 Welcoming Committee Records) Noam Chomsky is a favorite among the listeners of NPR stations. I used to host a show on the local NPR station, and I played quite a few of Noam Chomsky's lectures. This one focuses on the current war on terrorism that the United States in engaged in. What I like about Noam Chomsky is that his speech is focused, yet encompasses so much. Ranging from as the United States government's terrorism and the war on Nicaragua to the CIA and terrorism, to why the "terrorists" hate us so much. Noam talks about things that the mass media prefers to keep silent on. This is another must listen to CD for anyone who is politically minded. The list of other sources of information that is included on the inside of the CD booklet is another plus in this top rate release.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Chrash - Audio Feng Shui - CD
(Future Apple Tree Records) They really make me think of a mellower version of the great late 90's band Harvey Danger. Chrash also brings to mind The New Pornographers, but with a more shoegazer bent. The song "Ouija Steering Wheel" sounds like Surfer Rosa era Pixies with keyboards and restrained vocals. They let loose a bit on "Zero to Brutal", but never really let go of their ultra-cool indie / shoegazer stylings. Definitely one of the best releases I've heard in 2006.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Laverne Christie Trio - East of the Sun, West of the Moon - CD
(Quiescent) LaVerne and her band explore eleven classic jazz songs and add their own flavor to make them all her unique stamp. This is straight jazz that you would expect to hear while in a classy lounge or at the intermission of some Vegas show. While it's nothing that I would play for everyday listening, it does make excellent background music for the right occasion.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Church of Hed - Church of Hed - CD
(Eternity's Jest Records) Consisting of cheesy sci-fi synth instrumentals this CD literally gave me a headache. And when I say cheesy sci-fi, I don't mean in a good way like some of the stuff you might hear from Man or Astroman? It's more of in a bad way, like in sucks. There were a couple of tune where they tried to incorporate vocals into the mix that did little to help out. My opinion was confirmed when Grog called me while I was listening to this release and immediately asked "What the hell are you listening to?"
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Churchill, Ward - In A Pig's Eye - CD
(G-7 Welcoming Committee Records) This is a cd of a lecture that Ward Churchill gave in spring 2001. This is the sort of thing that you would hear on NPR. Ward Churchil is the Co-Director of the American Indian Movement of Colorado, a former national spokesman for the Leonard Peltier Defense Committee, and an associate professor of American Indian Studies and Communications at the University of Colardo. Ward covers a few things during his talk, including Native American land rights, the civil rights movement, and Leonard Peltier. The joining theme thoughout is the repression of rights by the United States Government (mainly focusing on the FBI) against these groups and individuals.

While I liked the CD, I did find that there wansn't any real info presented on how we can fix the problem. I also have problems with the final question/answer portion, in that the audience was very much in the political orientation as Ward, and personally I have a problem with the far left as I do with the far right.

Overall, the information presented during his talk is both interesting and eye opening.

I would strongly suggest that anyone just getting into political activism, listen to this CD, especially if you are unfamilar with the info I mentioned in the previous paragraph. I still recommend this for everyone else, but you might want to pick up one of recommended books that are listed in the CD booklet as well. And remember to always study both sides to everything.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Ciccone Youth - The Whitey Album - CD
(Universal Chronicles) Sonic Youth being experimental? What!? I know it sounds a bit redundant, but that seems to be the premise of this release of distorted guitars and steady beats over spoken word ("Me & Jill/Hendrix Cosby"), casual conversations("Two Cool Rock Chicks Listening to Nue"), covers ("Burnin' Up" & "Addicted to Love"), and a whole bunch of hullabaloo . The CD starts off with a rhythmic song track, which is followed by a track of silence. "Burnin' Up (Mike Watt orig. demo) is a decent interpretation; while it takes a few listens to appreciate the Kim Gordon led "Addicted to Love."

Their attempts at rap are weak, and sound more like middle age white people making fun of rap. The same can be said of their attempts on their dance club songs. Their rework of Madonna's "Into the Groove", titled "Into the Groovy" sounds just lame. The songs on this disc work well when they are closer to the traditional Sonic Youth sound. This is a release that is aimed at the hard core Sonic Youth fans.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Cinema, Cinema - Viva!! Cinema, Cinema - CD
(Cinema, Cinema) There are few bands that can pull off Eddie Vedder style vocals and Cinema, Cinema is not one of them. Throughout this four track EP I had to wonder if some of the high notes weren't actually animals being tortured.

The music itself was actually enjoyable, sounding also as if it were influenced by Pearl Jam. I'd say the band would have a chance with a new lead singer.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

Bob Claire - Another Day - CD
(Whole Rest Music) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Frankie Cleary - The Six Year Getaway - CD
(Frankie Cleary) "In Review"
-- (2007)

Alex Clements - Waiting for You... - CD
(Alex Clements) Classic piano based lounge jazz that sounds like something straight out of the early 60's. Excellent songwriting and musical chops are shown on this disc that is the perfect backdrop for a classy evening out or a rainy afternoon indoors. Nothing earthshattering or groundbreaking, just a solid release of well played jazz.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Jay Clifford - Driving Blind - CD
(33 and 1/3 Records) He was the main songwriting force in Jump Little, Children and his voice and style come through very clearly on this solo outing. It's a nice, clean, well produced dics, but never vcentures into any of the territory that make JLC so unique. I like Jay Clifford and I could see several of these tracks getting picked up by adult alternative stations. Some of the tunes sound like the best parts of the Beatles, others do head into JLC territory ala "Mother's Eyes". My favorite song is "Don't Be Fooled" which could be a hit on many different format stations. Overall this is a very solid release from an amazing musician.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Cling – Sonic Spells - CD
(Cling) Every once in a while I’ll come across a band that seems to come out of nowhere and completely blows me away. Cling is one of those bands. Gerald Patient and Susi Lavender are the two artists that make up this atmospheric band. Gerald programs the music, while Susi provides the vocals. The synergy that is created through the combination of susi’s vocals and Gerald’s composition is almost spiritual in the affect is has on the listener.

There is a sense of ‘dreamtime’ atmosphere on the opening track “Slipping Away" (Of the Darkness remix). Susi’s airy yet powerful vocals float on the electronic ether of Gerald’s masterful music production. “Abandoned” has a catchy beat and is the most poppy of the tunes on this release. “Luna C” sounds like a cooler than the original remix of an earlier Morcheeba song. “The Other Side” is a haunting tune with a light Massive Attack feel to it, made even more powerful by the lightness of Susi’s vocals. The disc ends with “Slipping Away” (Original), which lacks the emotional energy of the other songs on this release, but is still powerful in it’s own right.

Cling is an unsigned band, but I don’t expect them to remain so much longer. I can’t wait until they are able to focus their energy full-time on their music instead of having to worrying about all the other things that go with being a band that must do everything themselves. They are planning a tour for this (their debut) release and I would encourage anyone who can to go seem them.
-- Mite Mutant (2006) Interview with Cling

CKY - Infiltrate* Destroy*Rebuild - CD
(Island Records) I heard a bit about these guys a while ago, but didn't get the whole scoop until this big media blitz hit. CKY is the band that supplied the title song to Jackass, and one member happens to be the brother of the Jackass host. This aside, they seem to be a competent band. The first thing that caught my eye was the way they do their logo, it is using the Ozzy lettering. I don't know if this is just being trendy or if they have always done this has an homage. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, but what matters here is the music. They have a updated metal sound that isn't nue-metal, but more of a keyboard / industrial laced version of the 80's metal hairband sound. This would be cool if it wasn't for the vocal and lyrics being like 80's metal fluff. Their vocalist is just a bit too melodic for the music they play and at times they almost sound like, gag...The Alan Parsons Project. Especially on the track "Plastic Plan" which sounds way too close to "Eye in the Sky". They have their moments, but I don't see much use for this band other than to be used in conjunction with Jackass.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Clann Zu - Rua - CD
(G-7 Welcoming Committee Records) An odd conglomeration of sound from Oz. Irish folk with a modern day indie rock feel and a touch of industrial thrown into the mix. My favorite songs are "Hope this Day", "Everyday" & "All the People Now", but every track has something special and demands to be heard. An excellent group that has really grown on me and ranks with Midnight Oil as my favorite band from down under. They have a very different sound from most everything out there right now. To get an idea of what they sound like you could take a bit of Afro Celt Sound System (similar genre mixing), Slante Mhath (instrumentation), Flogging Molly (punk feel & energy), Great Big Sea (storytelling), Chumbawumba (political activism) and traditional Irish folk (deep, personal songs of struggle and hope) and then you might come close to this group.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Clare Quilty - Strong - CD
(Dcide Records) This is an interesting band. They have a bit of that pop sound that I like from Elastica, but with American flavor and more power. They also have some of that raw early eighties punk sound to them, like something you'd hear from Homestead Records in their heyday. Once I really got deeper into the disc I realized how sexy and seductive their sound is and how well it all works together. This is definitely a keeper.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Frankie Cleary - The Six Year Getaway - CD
(Frankie Cleary) Is this Barry Privett from Carbon Leaf's younger and less talented brothers band? While they do remind me of Carbon Leaf, the songwriting isn't as strong and they just aren't as polished. The songs are catchy and have a good flow, but they really lack that special spark and they feel not quite gelled. I do hear some really great elements here and think with more time or collaboration this could turn into something great.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Clockwise - Clockwise - CD
(RCA Records / BMG) A good typical "new rock" band. They definitely have the potential to go mainstream. They have the sound that is big now. It's kind of like a mix between Bush and every other popular band that is played to death on the radio.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)

Rosemary Clooney - The Last Concert - CD
(Concord Records) The weirdest thing about listening to this release is hearing the jovial mood and warmth that Rosemary had at this concert that she did not too long before she died. Rosemary is a contemporary of performers like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. While this may not be my first choice in music, I have to admire Rosemary and her Talent. Her performance is top notch on this release. From the opening tune "Sentimental Journey" to the closing tune "God Bless America", Rosemary just oozes class.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Nigel Clothier - Book of Days - CD
(Nigel Clothier) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Jerry Clower - Classic Clower Power - CD
(Universal Records) Jerry Clower isn't really a comedian. He's more of a storyteller who told stories in a funny way. He fell into the entertainment business, when as a fertilizer salesman he was approached and asked if he would like to record some of the stories he told. He soon had a major record deal, a hit record and ended up becoming a mainstay of the Grand Ole Opry. His stories were clean, he like to let out loud bellowing "Yeow's", and only canceled one show in his many years of performing. He passed away shortly thereafter.

With that said, you must also be aware that he was a deeply religious man. This means that his stories were very clean with the best bit on this release, “Steel Marbles” with the ending line, “No mame’, hot metal balls”, a story about marbles, a bully and smarts is the raunchiest that Jerry ever gets. The humor works well for people who remember simpler times when they weren’t too aware of the world, or for children who aren't too aware of the world yet. And while I didn't find too much humor in his stories while listening to them, I'm sure that had more impact when people would see him live, especially with all the hoopin' and hollerin' he does.

Besides not finding his stories all that humorous, I found his delivery style lacking as well. It took him quite a long time to build to the punchline and many times they just went nowhere. There’s a bit on this release that is similar to Jeff Foxworthy’s “You Might Be a Redneck” called “Examples of a Red Neck”. The biggest thing that separates the two is delivery. Foxworthy's is much better.

Still, There were a couple of stories on this 46-track double disc that I did enjoy. But the percentage of funny just isn't great enough for me to recommend anyone younger than 50 to get it, unless you're going to give it to someone else. (Like I'm going to do by giving this to my dad, because I think that he will enjoy it.) I'm also willing to get Jerry another chance as I'm getting ready to watch the DVD that came in the same time as this release. We'll see.
- Mite Mutant (2006)

Colleen Coadic - The Opposite Only Better - CD
(Colleen Coadiac) Her music has a strong pop foundation with a bit of an alternative/folk/country mixed in. With the pop leanings of Alison Morrisett combined with the smart songwriting of the Indigo Girls, strong vocals of Natalie Merchant, and the confidence of Ani Difranco, this release is top notch from beginning to end. This is a CD that I love more and more every time I listen to it.
-- Mite Mutant (2005)

Cock Sparrer - Live: Runnin' Riot Across the USA - CD
(TKO / Flat Records) Am I just a lame ass or what? Why haven't I known about this band before now? Recorded during their first ever U.S. tour, which happened at the beginning of 2000, this band just fuckin' rocks. Their tunes are solid punk rock and are superbly catchy. Their songs beg you to sing along to them. "Because You're Young" has to be my favorite tune on this release, but all of them are great. This is one of the best live releases that I have ever heard, seriously.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Code - Alert Aware Involved - CD
(AF Records) I was quite surprised by these guys. I was assuming they would be standard sociopolitical hardcore. Sure they have the fast driving beat, the chanting choruses and the lyrical attitude, but throwing them into that general category would be a disservice to this great band. After giving the disc a listen I found some major similarities to Citizen Fish and Op Ivy. They really do a great job of combining several styles and keeping the music fresh even if most of their opinions have been stated a million times before. I'd have to say the Code is one of the better punk bands around today.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Kellie Coffey - Walk On - CD
(Kellie Coffey) While Kelly Coffey doesn't have that classic country sound that I like, she's isn't modern country either. Her style lays somewhere in between and reminds me a bit of Reba McEntire or Wynonna Judd. Now that I did my best on describing what she sounds like, let me talk a bit about this CD. It's freakin' great. The production is great. The music is catchy. The lyrics are smart and at times funny and Kelly's vocals are top notch. With the right promotion, I could see the upbeat tunes "When Pigs Fly" (my favorite) and "It" becoming hits. Oh my god! Am I starting to like country? Damn you Kelly Coffey.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Catman Cohen - How I Want to Die (Vol. I) - CD
Catman Cohen - How I Want to Live (Vol. II) - CD
(Catman Cohen) I know that Catman Cohen meant this release to be serious, but while listening to the opening tune "How I Want to Die" I couldn't help thinking of the scene from Annie Hall where her artsy boyfriend tells a college aged Annie that the way he wants to die is to be torn apart by wild dogs. The songs on this conceptual CD sound like they were written for a musical that takes itself too seriously. The male vocals aren't much better, and almost have a religious slant to them. The only bright spot on this release was the vocals of Ronee Martin on "Wishin' on a Star". Other than that I have to say I didn't really like this release too much.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

James Cohen - High Side of Lowdown - CD
(Northern Blues Records) This release has its own dynamic style that I find incomparable. James Cohen plays a fiercely gentle flamenco guitar over some silky stand-up bass that takes me back to San Antonio when my grandparents took me to the street market. In my experience, instrumental bands tend to have a sense of humor that creeps into the music and here it most certainly does. On “Mock Pollock” Cohen does a boogie woogie parody that closely mirrors Taco’s “Puttin’ on the Ritz” with a bit of flare a la a three ring circus. The serious tunes such as “Fortune’s Fool” serve up a sexy salsa beat, modulated organ, and beautifully played flamenco guitar mixed with a healthy dose of jazz and a touch of blues. This release opens strongly and maintains it potency throughout.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

Coin - Architects of Character - CD
(Anal Log Recordings) The quirkiness of 80's arcade synth meshed with rayovac femininity, Coin is definitely what one would call a little different. This is the music that every movie about the future should have in them. It's a new genre of rock. It's audio-tronic.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Collapsis - Dirty Wake - CD
(Cherry / Universal) These guys are a decent alternative rock band that sounds like Fuel and Matchbox 20 got together added a touch of R.E.M. And went for a totally radio friendly sound with every song. It's good music, but seems to lack the passion that makes a true hit and memorable music. I like it, but they seem to be very much a background type of deal.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Gerald Collier - How Can There Be Another Day? - CD
(In Music We Trust) After listening to this release I get the feeling that Gerald Collier can be lumped into the category of musicians/bands that are well known in their general area, but aren’t well known outside of the zone much like Dayton, Ohio’s Shrug. This is too bad, because Gerald Collier is one talented individual.

This is a release of demos and B-sides, which means there are quite a few covers represented here. The acoustical folk/country music treatment that Gerald gives to Elton John’s “Rocket Man” just has to be heard. I also liked the way that he has a Mick Jagger inflection in his voice while he gives his take on the Stones cover “Jigsaw Puzzle.” Another one of my favorites on this release is the Steve Earle tune, “Sometimes She Forgets.” He also shows that he can write them as well, as his original “For Taking My Baby Away” greatly illustrates. This entire CD is wonderful.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Come And Go - Shinebox - CD
(Purify Records) Come And Go, with their bar-band sound, gets off to a slow start on this release. The first few songs come off as cheesy rocks songs that Bon Jovi would pass over. However, a few songs in they start hitting their stride with a succession of solid country-rock songs that you can proudly drink a beer to while playing pool.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Common Rider - Last Wave Rockers - CD
(Panic Button) It's slowed down snotty punk with a bit of a groovy reggae feel. This band does actually sound like the last of the wave rockers. While this release doesn't really grab you by the head and swing you around, it's does have a nice air about it.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Common Rotation - The Big Fear - CD
(Common Rotation Publishing) For some reason I'm reminded of the late 80's band Haircut 100, but that's just a general feeling. At times they come off as post-modern folkies then on other songs such as "Answering Machine" they hit alternative country zone. They do a pretty decent version of "Don't Let's Start" by TMBG but it lacks the overall fun of the original. In conclusion Common Rotation has quite a bit going for them, but they just don't seem to really gel.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Confrontation Camp - Objects in the Mirror Are Closer than They Appear - CD
(Artemis Records) This is one of those rap rock combinations, but not in the lame Kid Rock or Limp Biscuit way. This is more in tune with Ice-T's Body Count or going way back to the Aerosmith / Run DMC collaboration. However this is way more current than either of the aforementioned groups. It has some of that Living Colour feel but with a current rap sound mixed in. This really isn't my favorite style and it takes a while to get used to it, but it is a better blend of rock rap than most of the lame stuff that you hear on the radio currently. In case you were interested it was produced by Kyle Ice Jason, Professor Griff and Mistachuck so you know it's got some street cred.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Mike Connelly - IV - CD
(Mike & Laura Duo) One man band Mike Connelly does everything on this release, except for vocals on two songs which are handled by his wife. Most of the music is very 50's rock flavoured with a touch of mellow 70's and brings to mind Roy Orbison. There's nothing wrong with the music other than the vocals and guitar being way up in the mix. The lyrics are things that Mike believes in which is cool. Overall the sound is weak and the vocals shaky and the music predictable. Nice for what it is, but it isn't making it far.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Conor - Conor - CD
(Conor Music) Egad! This sounds like someone who really wishes he were James Taylor, but with the musical sense of a Vegas lounge singer like Wayne Newton. The music is actually pretty good as is the female backing vocals. However, at the forefront is Conor and it is not a pretty picture. It sounds like he paid a load of money to hire some professional musicians to back him on his quest for "fame". What you're left with is some really high quality karaoke on disc.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Clare Cooper - Northern Drive - CD
(Clare Copper) Clare's music style rolls between blues and country. Nothing too special. The music and vocals can be heard in Anytown, U.S.A. on any given night.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Channing Cope - Sugar in Our Blood - CD
(Fight Records) I'm stuck at the airport due to a two hour flight delay after working a 10-hour day while a large woman lays sprawled across the seats a few feet away snoring. When I thought that it couldn't get any worse, I put this disc into my CD player and proved myself wrong.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Stewart Copeland - The Rhythmatist - CD
(Universal Records) I had such high hopes for this release and because of that I was completely let down. After hearing such great releases from Peter Gabriel's Real World record label where non-Western music is presented with a Western flair, I was expecting this release to be somewhat similar. There's not too much rhythm going on here, which is what I expected on a release by Stewart Copeland. The songs aren't memorable except for the last two in which the vocals are a bit lacking in quality. I much prefer the Rumble Fish soundtrack.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Cordero - Lamb Lost in the City - CD
(Daemon Records) When Stacey from Daemon Records sent me an email about Cordero I knew that I wanted to hear them. I have not taken this disc out of my CD player since I received it and am captivated by the music and Ani Cordero's amazing voice. I would place Cordero on the level of the Wild Colonials in relationship to song writing and overall talent. I really love how some songs are in Espanol and some are in English, actually I prefer the songs in Espanol because it compliments her voice and makes it sound even sexier and more powerful. The songs themselves range from straight ahead rock "Sea Captain's Daughter" to super sexy salsa "Vamos Nenas" to the Wild Colonial-esque "Girando Hasta El Fin". I am really taken by Cordero and haven't felt this excited about a new band in quite some time. This is easily one of the top ten CD's of the year.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Corespondents - Hairy Ghost Pipefish - CD
(Noise Order) Haunting acoustic guitar lines being played over a sparse backdrop. On some songs a distorted, tortured voice rises up out of the shadows and wreaks restrained havoc upon the flow. The Corespondents create an interesting guitar-based soundscape that seems to derive from the desolate plains of Neptune.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Shannon Corey - Unsaid - CD
(Shannon Corey) This sounds a bit like a blend of Fiona Apple and Sarah McLachlan on vocals. Cindy, my wife, said that Shannon sounds so much like one of her favorite bands, Fairground Attraction, that it's scary. Regardless it's very well played female singer songwriter indie folk rock with catchy melodies and excellent execution. Shannon Corey is an amazing vocalist and her voice blends so well with the instrumentation that every song just glides. The piano playing is along the lines of Tori Amos, but a bit more subdued and the addition of strings on many tracks brings out the full emotion in each creation.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Ken Cormier - Radio-Bueno - CD
(Elis Eil Records) Ken Cormier is a one man band who primary relies on his voice and an acoustic guitar but on most tracks takes on all the basic instruments. I would put him in a place between Dan Bern and Hamel on Trial in the whole folk based solo artist world. Ken sticks primarily to folk rock but infuses it with blues and funk for a good small bar feel. Though they are melodic, none of his songs really stick in my head. He is definitely better than most guys in his genre, but he'll have to develop a bit more before he can attain a wide spread following.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Elvis Costello - The First Ten Years - CD
(Universal Records) A great collection of twenty two songs written during the first ten years of Elvis Costello's career. However, if you look a bit closer you'll find that seventeen of them were written in the first five years. And if you listen closely you'll hear that his best ones are from the first three years. Among those songs are gems like "Alison", "Watching the Detectives", "Chelsea", "Pump It Up", "Radio, Radio" and "Peace, Love & Understanding". I've always liked Elvis Costello, I just never realized that the songs I liked were from so early in his career. By the time the compilation gets to 1984's "Everyday I Write The Book" it starts to feel worn out of ideas. Overall not a bad disc, but better left to true fans.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Elvis Costello - My Aim Is True (Deluxe Edition) - CD
(Universal Music Company) I'm approaching this release from my liking quite a few Elvis Costello tunes, but have never been to the point where I've much outside of his popular songs. So while I think this CD is decent enough, it doesn't really make me ecstatic. This double-disc release consist of a re-release of his CD My Aim is True, as well as out-takes, demo's and live recordings. The only songs that I am familiar with are "Welcome to the Working Week", "Alison" and "Watching the Detectives" which are all terrific.

While this CD really didn't blow me (as a casual Elvis Costello listener) out of the water, it did expose me to just how great of a musician he is. The demos are great on their own and the live recordings taken from performances he did in 1977 are stunning. The music is tight, the vocals are strong and the quality is better than most live recordings done today. If you are like me and just have a liking for the music then be like me and pick up a greatest hits CD. If you are a huge fan of Elvis Costello, then this CD is more that worth it for all the extra goodies, especially the live stuff of disc two.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Neil Cotterill - Moonshot - CD
(The Beechfields) "In Review"
Imagine if you will: Ben Folds gets really, really stoned and is left alone in the studio to make a CD with some friends. This is pretty much the feeling I got from listening to "Moonshot".

At the first strains of the guitar in the opening track, "Woodshedding" I was hopeful; for I heard inklings of Ben Harper or Jack Johnson weaving through the riffs. But alas, soon the trippy, lilty voice gave way to in-cohesive guitar noodling and soon I was checking the medicine cabinet to make sure I hadn't killed the bottle of Vicodin. It was intact.

However, there were some very tasty guitar hooks that really could have become great songs if given the chance. The use of what sounds like vintage synths lent some interesting textures and gave me another ray of hope that there might be some gems hidden somewhere inside. I found a few diamonds in the rough, but no gems.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of the Jack White "No man, leave that sour note in there it gives it honesty" school of production, but there's a bit of a line between that and sounding like you didn't rehearse before you hit the studio.

What I will give Mr. Cotterill is the ability to create a mood with his songs; even if the mood is melancholy. I wasn't sure how many tracks had lapsed as they all seemed to blend into one another. Not that it's a bad thing, as I said; it created a mood. Maybe I need to experience a live performance, you know like in a really cool coffee shop with hipsters smoking clove cigarettes and getting jacked up on espresso and herbal teas. I know geeky, heart-on-your-sleeve singer songwriters are all the rage right now, but I really don't like feeling emasculated after listening to a CD.
-- B. Mutant (2007)

Anla Courtis / Seiichi Yamamoto / Yoshimi - Live at Kanadian - CD
(Public Eyesore) 1 whole hour of squ@*^uueee$^*#ek $ squ$&# lchhhhh _ggnnnkkk runk*&kcck bL!@&$ooootTttt W(&hSH)(&#)(8@#&$^*&!! Knkkkkk performed live. No I don't think so.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Counting Crows - August and Everything After (Deluxe Edition) - 2CD
(Universal Music Company) This is another re-released re-master of a well-known alternative band by the folks at Universal in their Deluxe Edition series. It's hard to believe that it's been almost 15 years since Counting Crows hit the scene with their two hits off of this release: "Round Here" and "Mr. Jones." Now while I have never been a big fan of Counting Crows I do appreciate the tightness of their unique musical style as well as the catchy lyrics, and their nice musicianship sounds even more stunning on this re-mastered release.

Along with the improved crispness to the sound, fans will be happy to know that disc one of this two disc package is loaded with six demos, while disc two is a recording of the band playing live in Paris, France in 1994.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

I like the Counting Crows and found this to be a very interesting re-release. The live show was especially good, except for the extended versions of their two hits which went on like some jam band from hell. Otherwise this is a great record of their early songs. - Grog

Cracker - Garage D'Or - 2CD
(Virgin Records) This is a great collection of Cracker songs. You get music from each of their releases like " Teen Angst", "Low" and "Get Off This" as well live and unreleased tracks. Cracker is one of those great under-rated bands that keeps releasing great songs, but never seem to get much credit. Hopefully they will keep carrying on and keep doing what they do so well.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Crackjaw - Giants from the stereo - CD
(I Scream Records) Melodic hardcore was huge a few years ago, but I am not hearing as much of it as I used to. I must admit that I was getting really tired of it, but for some reason this doesn't sound all that bad. I mean it's pretty typical and all, but these guys mix the aggressive hardcore parts and the melodic vocals quite nicely. Get's old after a while, though.
-- Hans Mutant (2007)

Dan Craig - Wirebird - CD
(Dan Craig Music) Dan Craig has a quavering whisper James Blunt like vocal style, which is a good fit for the alternative acoustical instrumentation of the songs on this release. The lyrics are good and if it wasn't for the overexposure of artist like James Blunt I think that this release would have done really well, which is too bad, because the CD is pretty good. I lean towards the tunes that are a bit more bouncy like "Afterglow" and "Waiting on a Waitress".
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Jamie Craig - The Lost Dream - CD
(Craig Sounds) "In Review"
-- (2008)

The Cranberries - Stars Best of 1992-2002 - CD
(Universal Records) Yes! This CD makes me so happy. I really love the Cranberries and their music has gotten me through some really hard emotional times in the past ten years. The Cranberries are one of those bands that when I listen to their CD's I listen all the way through and love every song. Dolores O'Riordan is one of my dream women, I love her voice, her lyrics, her style and the way she thinks. I would love to interview her sometime, and that's pretty rare because there aren't many people I'd like to interview. Of course Dolores isn't the only member of the band there is also Noel and Mike Hogan and Fergal Lawler who are all great musicians and round out the band nicely. There are seventeen songs that were released as singles on this disc plus two brand new songs and one fan voted on song. The non-single song that won inclusion is "Daffodil Lament" which I have to agree is an excellent song. I think that the Cranberries are one of the consistently great bands of the past decade. I hope to hear more for them in the future, until then I'll be listening to this disc a lot.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Crash and Burn - Self Titled - CD
(Rodent Popsicle Records) Another great band flying the punkrocknroll flag I really cant get enough of this stuff it's exactly what I like about punk, fast songs, no wasted riffs, no wanky solos. I am somewhat concerned about them thanking "The Almighty Lord Jesus Christ" on their liner notes, but I am gonna assume they did it to offend rather than praise!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Robert Cray - The Best of Robert Cray - CD
(Universal Records) I still remember hearing Robert Cray's first release back in the mid '80s. I was fairly into blues based rock back then and Cray brought new life to the blues for me and a further separation from the blues based rock I was used to hearing. I never heard much about him though the '90s, but evidently he has still been putting out albums and playing the music that he loves. His songs are blues, but they mix elements of jazz, R&B, soul and gospel into his own unique creation. Most songs have to do with relationships, but he has a way of getting you into the character within three minutes. He tends to combine elements of Otis Redding, Albert Collins, Eric Clapton and O.V. Wright and has an amazingly talented band to back him up. Clearly Robert Cray will be remembered as one of the blues greats.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

The Crayon Theatrical - The Crayon Theatrical - CD
(PO Box 294 Lebanon, OH 45036) This is another release by local artist Michael Homyk. The music is like independent pop music with a nod to the Beatles. He is a really good songwriter, but sometimes I feel that they are missing something. I think he should collaborate with somebody that could help him make his songs even stronger.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Cream - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Records) Obviously, Cream is a band that needs no introduction. Comprised of Eric Clapton (who was recently elected into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame), Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce, this seminal psychedelic blues-style band has often been called 'rock's first power trio'. The Millennium Collection proves that this title is well deserved. When I was a little girl, I used to put on Cream's records (my parents were both hippies), and lie on the floor listening to them through the headphones. This collection of their greatest hits brings that back to me. All the best tracks are here: 'I Feel Free', 'Strange Brew', 'Crossroads', and of course, 'White Room'. The blues/rock/experimental sound that influenced many and entertained many more is still potent after almost forty years. Cream is definitely an integral part of the history of rock and roll.
-- Lizi 'BratBabyMonkey' (2001)

Creature Feature - Creature Feature EP - CD
(Creature Feature Music) This release is way too short. Packaged in a DVD case, I thought I was in for 3 B-movie horror films. What I got was three terrifically carnival flavored songs, which sound like killer theme songs for terrifically cheesy B-movie horror films. The songs have a bouncy catchiness to them that had me thinking, they come across like a rockin' version of the Munsters theme. Still the lyrics have a creepiness to them, and I can almost hear Marilyn Manson covering these songs. But once again, I have to say that this release was way too short, because I was left wanting more. Killer release. Think Danny Elfman doing music for a rock band in a Tim Burton movie and you'll come very close to the sound of this band.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Crematorium - A World Where Only Nightmares Prevail - CD
(Dismal Records) This is a four song EP by a typical metal band. The only song that stands out is their cover of Metallica's "Whiplash" which sounds close to the original but with somebody like Lemmy singing.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Crisis in Hollywood - Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea - CD
(Financial Records) I kept thinking to myself this is what it would sound like if The Used and Panic at the Disco joined forces. The music and lyrics are catchy and the songs have a drive. This is a band that I expect to be one of the headliners on the annual Warped Tour. Right from the start I knew this is a band I would like. "The Fashion of the Christ" reminded me so much of the afore-mentioned bands that I had to read the liner notes to see if any of the members were in fact in this band. This is a CD that I need to share with my friends and you need to check out before the band gets too big.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Croghan, Sean - From Burnt Orange to Midnight Blue - CD
(In Music We Trust) Sensitive male vocals over melodic tuneage, seems to be the forte of the artist on the In Music We Trust Record Label. The first tune where Sean is backed by sweet female vocals, had me thinking of a mellow Blake Babies. Too bad that was the only track, because while the music is strong, the rest of the songs didn't really stand out for me like that first song.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Croonboom - When I See It In Your Eyes - CD
(Croonboom) Do you remember dat part in da movie Boogie Nights where Mark Walberg's character, Dirk Diggler, is in da recording studio attempting to make the transition from porn star to rock star? (Just 'cause da 'Teve can do both, don't mean everybody can.) Anyway, he thought his music was going to be at da top of da charts, but in reality it was so horribly bad, it was funny.

Croonboom^TM (Yes, dey have a trademark on their bands name, maybe da 'Teve should start doin' dat, so dey won't be any immitators tryin' to fool da pretty ladies in thinkin' dey with me, the real 'Teve^TM ) music reminds me so much of dat scene. While listening to their attempts at hard rock, da 'Teve^TM literally had tears in 'Teve's^TM eyes da 'Teve^TM was laughing so hard. It's as if Ed Wood is still alive and now he is producing CD's.
-- 'Teve (2006)

Bing Crosby - Academy Award Winners & Nominees 1934-1960 - CD
(Universal) Full of classics that even your grandparents know. I don't know if that's good or bad, but hey it does bring back memories of childhood when I had to listen to these songs. You get twenty songs that everybody knows such as "White Christmas", "Pennies from Heaven", "Never on Sunday", "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Sweet Leilani".
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Crossbreed - Synthetic Diversion - CD
(Artemis Records) Rocked out aggression that would make any industrial mother proud. This band seems to have studied at the Nine Inch Nails/Marilyn Manson/Ministry school of mayhem. However, unlike many bands that sound like cheap imitations, Crossbreed manages to take what they have learned and make it their own. The songs are great and filled with merciless beauty. The only real problem that I had with this is the promo photo of the band and their photo on the back of the CD. Both made me think that they were going to sound like an Industrial N'Sync. Overall, a wonderful release that should be in any industrial music lovers collection as well as anyone who likes to rock out.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Cruel & Unusual - The Cruel & Unusual - CD
(Mortville Records PO Box 4263 Austin, TX 78765) 'Teve loved this CD just for da cover, which has a dominatrix in a sexy leather teddy holding a machine gun. There's also a guy on all fours with a mask and leash who it seems to be DA sexy ladies sex slave. 'Teve don't think he good enough for her and dat 'Teve should be her boyfriend. Oh yead, DA music. It's basic punk aggression. 'Teve liked the song "Guns" but hated "Rip it Up", most of the CD is like dat.
-- 'Teve (2001)

The Crystal Method - Vegas (Deluxe Edition) - CD
(Universal Music Company) This is a re-release of their 1997 trance / electronica classic Vegas. The Crystal Method is one of my favorite bands of this genre, with their fusion of rock, electronica, hip-hop and other styles they stand above most electronica bands. This is a great release to listen to while gaming or while creating websites since the constant flow of beats can keep you pumped up naturally. What really sets this Crystal Method release apart is the second disc of remixes including one early demo and a live version of "Vapor Trail". Their biggest hit "Busy Boy" is taken on with three different remixes. Yeah, it does sound odd to hear of an electronica band get remixed, but I love the new takes on the songs. Vegas is now on permanent rotation on my MP3.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Sam Cubbage - Dare to Dream - CD
(Sam Cubbage) Average sounding, bar band, blues rock with “makes me cringe” background vocals. This will never get beyond the stage it is at and that seems to suit Sam just fine.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Dan Cunningham - Wayfaring Stranger - CD
(Pickndawg) I call this type of music folk troubadour. The record company describes it as New Appalachian. Either works. Dan Cunningham is a singer/songwriter armed with a fleet finger picking style. While the tunes can be a bit cheesy at times (the tune “Big Gene” which is an ode to childhood and soda pop is a good example) the picking style is well done.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Johnny Cuomo - American Idle - CD
(Paradiddle Records) Johnny Cuomo is a melodic singer/songwriter whose vocals perfectly compliment his flowing guitar playing. (Or is it his guitar playing compliments his vocals?) He’s the type of musician where you just sit and listen as his music as it puts you into a hypnotic spell. I do have to say that my favorite tune on the disc is “More Bricks” which has a bluegrass feel and is one of the more upbeat tunes on this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Matt Cutillo - Death Of A Musician - CD
(Matt Cutillo) Dear god please make it stop. Decent music, horrible vocals, laughable lyrics.
-- Maximillion Twist (2007)

Cynica - Dork Rock - CD
(Cynic) I think the album title sums it up...this is Dork Rock. They have a bit of F.Y.P. to them along with a dose of Boris the Sprinkler. But they are more diverse then the standard punk-pop dork rock tunes that the aforementioned bands play. Could they be the They Might Be Giants for a new generation? Only time will tell...and only if they get a bit more clever.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)