The ChickenFish Speaks - Music Reviews Of Complilation Releases - Dischord Records, Abacus Records, Athfest, Side One Dummy Records, James Brown, D.R.I. Tribute, Christmas, Lookout Records, Victory Records

V/A - 20 Years of Dischord - 3CD
(Dischord Records) OK, we didn't get this as a review copy or anything, but it's so cool I just had to write about it. I actually got it as a birthday present from my super cool girlfriend Cindy.

This is a three disc set which also includes an excellent 134 page booklet. The first two discs include one songs from all fifty bands which Dischord has released between 1980-2000. The third disc has twenty-four unreleased tracks.

In this collection you get songs from Minor Threat and Fugazi along with a host of other greats such as: Youth Brigade, Government Issue, Skewbald, Gray Matter, Dag Nasty, Soulside, Shudder To Think, Lungfish, The Nation of Ulysses, Jawbox, Severin, Circus Lupus, Slant 6, Hoover, Trusty, The Make-Up and Bluetip.

This is something that anybody into punk or indie rock should own. A great release, by a great label featuring great bands. What more could you ask for?
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

V/A - '60s Gold - 2CD
(Universal Records) There’s about 35 great songs on this double disc compilation. The other five, while not great are still good. The best thing about this release is the diversity. You can find tunes from The Miracles, The Troggs, Blue Cheer, Diana Ross and the Supremes, James Brown, The Mamas & The Papa’s, Marvin Gaye, Procol Harum, The Angles, Sam The Sham & the Pharoah…. you get the picture. They don’t call this ‘60s Gold for no reason. This one is going to my permanent collection. You should have it for yours as well.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - '80s Dance Gold - 2CD
(Universal Records) It’s funny that in on this compilation an‘80s song doesn’t necessarily need to have a tradition dance beat to be considered a dance song, all that’s needed is for it to be was an extended mix. Three good examples on this ‘80s Dance Gold compilation are Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”, ABC’s “Poison Arrow” and “Steppin’ Out” by Joe Jackson. Thank god, since most of the songs on this release that are actual dance songs from the ‘80s aren’t really that hot.

Don’t get me wrong, there are still quite a few actual dance tunes here that are good. Shannon’s “Let the Music Play”, Kool & the Gang’s “Fresh” and “Come Go with Me” by Expose are just a few examples from disc two of this two-disc release. Other standouts include “Venus” by Bananarama, “Two of Hearts” by Stacey Q, “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood and “Pump Up the Volume” by M/A/R/R/S.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - '90s Rock Number Ones - CD
(Universal Music Company) This disc is very similar to the Modern Rock #1s which was reviewed earlier. It features fifteen rock songs that made it to #1 in the '90s. The songs range from the dreamy college rock of The Sundays "Here's Where The Story Ends" to the hard rock of Buckcherry and their ode to cocaine "Lit Up". The bands represented are: The Wallflowers, Days of the New, Live, Deep Blue Something, Tonic, Semisonic, Tears for Fears, Suzanne Vega, Tracy Bonham, Smash Mouth, The Might Mighty Bosstones, Robyn Hitchcock and the Egyptians, Gin Blossoms and The Cranberries. I remember all of these songs and even have most of them on other releases, it's a nice trip back a decade. I could have lived without a few of these tracks, but overall it's a great disc with a decent variety of '90s rock.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Abacus Your New Favorite Label - CD
(Abacus Records) What does surf punk, metalcore, black metal and noise all have in common? This release includes them all with complete egalitarianism. Most of the tunes on this comp are four minutes of loud music with either whiny or screaming vocals, depending on the song. The one exception was Radiation4, where the vocals were more the warbling of Merman from cartoon Masters of the Universe.

The standouts on this disc include Haste and Burnthe8track, both which had a sound similar to Sum 41. The bands Devilinside, Heaven Shall Burn, and Glass Casket are also on the list of the groups to check out on this release as they give Malevolent Creation and Bolt Thrower a run for their money.

I came away from this disc feeling that most of the bands sounded like they were rushed and didn't get a chance to perfect their mix. I do honestly think there's promise here, but then again you know what they say about first impressions.

Included as a bonus for PC users is a video for Haste's song, "Stutter". It's an interesting take on the seven deadly sins. Check it out but don't expect a whole hell of a lot.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

V/A - The Aries: Italian Mix - CD
(Monte Cristo Records) Most of the songs on this foreign language comp I would expect to hear on an Italian/Latin American version of Lawrence Welk. Near the end of the disc the songs become more modern, but still maintain that safe Lawrence Welk sound. The only exception is the last track, "The Sixth Component" which is a nice new age instrumental, but completely out of place on this comp.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - AthFest - CD
(AthFest) This 2-CD release features music from 36 bands who have performed one time or another at Athfest during it’s 10+ year history of existence. While most of the bands on this release have that “Athens sound” there are a few that really stand out. It should also be noted that many of the tunes on this disc are either previously unreleased or previously released via download only.

While disc one includes a rare version of the R.E.M. tune “Wonderlust,” disc 2 is my favorite of this 2-CD set. This is mainly because it is more diverse in the music represented. “The Living Bubba” by the Drive-By Truckers, “I Believe in What You Do” by Little Red Rocket and the wonderful Jucifer with “Amplifier” are just three of the standouts.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Atticus - CD
(Side One Dummy Records) Atticus is the new clothing store started by one of the guys from Blink 182. (Did somebody say "P.Diddy beware!") Anyway you get 24 great punk-pop tunes from equally great bands. Some you've heard of like: Blink 182, New Found Glory, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Alkaline Trio, Jimmy Eat World and Box Car Racer and others who you might not have heard of but probably should: Midtown, Sugarcult, Bad Astronaut and Slick Shoes. Many of the songs are unreleased so it's a bargin any way you look at it.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Atticus...Dragging the Lake II- CD
(Side One Dummy Records) This is the second comp put together by one guy from Blink 182 who runs a clothing store called Atticus. Regardless of it being a store this is a great punkish compilation and you get 26 songs from bands like Dropkick Murphys, Alkaline Trio, Hot Water Music, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Jets to Brazil, Lagwagon, Slick Shoes, Down by Law and of course Blink 182. Just a nice big helping of some great bands, with a variety of styles all fitting into that vauge "punk" realm. There's no real downside to this release, so pick it up and listen.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

V/A - Burt Bacharach & Friends - 2CD
(Universal Records) I can ask someone if they have ever heard of Burt Bacharach, and they probably would say they’ve heard of his name, and a few might know that he is a musician. Then I could ask them to name one of his songs, and I bet just about everyone wouldn’t have a clue. Then I could name off just about any one of the 41 songs on this 2 CD release and they would say they’ve heard of it. Yes folks, Burt Bacharach is not only a musician, but (along with his song writing partner on many of the songs, Hal David) is one of the great composers of many memorable hits from the ‘60s. To my surprise, he is also has had a few hits in the ‘80s as well. And to top it all off, he and his music are also partially responsible for inspiring Mike Myers in developing Austin Powers. That’s why Burt’s music is in all the movies and made cameos in the films.

This is the fellow behind the Carpenter’s hit “(They Long to Be) Close to You”, Tom Jones’”What’s New Pussycat?” and Ronnie Milsap’s “Any Day Now.” And like I said, to my surprise he also helped compose the Naked Eyes’ hit from the ’80s “Always Something There to Remind Me.”

Neil Diamond’s “Heartlight”, “On My Own” by Patty LaBelle & Michael McDonald, “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head” by B.J. Thomas, “That’s What Friends are For”… the list just goes on, and ol’ Burt was behind them all.
-- (2006)

V/A - Beast of British - CD
(Deck Cheese / High Speed Recordings) This is a collection of 20 British punk bands and is a good representation of all your familiar styles such as hardcore, old skool, skapunk, skate punk, punk pop or street punk. Overall I thought it was a great comp and a great way to show what all punk is coming out of Britain. In case you're curious the bands included are: Travis Cut, Jesse James, Shootin' Goon, Annalise, Douglas, The Foamers, Varukers, Spine, Sick on the Bus, Mouthwash, UK Subs, Scuttle, Bierscooter, Dog Toffee, Engage, Capdown, Vanilla Pod, Cleatus, King Prawn and Southport. So crank it up and get ready to slam motherfucker.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - The Best of Bluegrass - CD
(Hip-O Records) While this is a decent CD with all the songs being great, I have to say that the title is soooooo misleading. If one thinks that they can sum up bluegrass with twelve songs they are just plain nuts. Now I could see if they added a "volume one" to the end, but even then some of the tunes on this release are a stretch at being labeled as the best. Okay, now that's out of the way. The tunes on this disk are wonderful. They manage to throw in some moderately newer artist (Ricky Skaggs and Vince Gill) with the legends (Bill Monroe, Flatt & Scruggs and The Stanely Brothers), but I'm sure any true bluegrass fan will have these songs in some other form already. And for someone who is just starting to explore bluegrass music, I would think that there is another release out there that would be a better introduction than this one.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Blues Classics - CD
(Universal Records) If you're the type of person who says you don't like blues music, it's probably because you haven't heard the right kind of blues. This CD is the right kind of blues. Twelve classic songs from twelve of the best blues artists of all time, is what you will find when you listen to this release. My favorite, Howlin' Wolf, belts it out on "I Ain't Superstitious", while Koko Taylor sings the Willie Dixon tune "Wang Dang Doodle". Two of the best female blues singers of all time are here as well. You don't get any better than Etta James or Big Mama Thorton, especially when she sings her signature hit "Hound Dog." This is one of those CD's where you can't go wrong. So get it and start enjoying the blues.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Blues Guitar - CD
(Universal Records) This is just one of the many blues themed compilations being released under The Millennium Collection moniker, by the fine folks at Universal Records. And like the other CDs (which you can find reviewed on this page) it's phenomenal. Twelve of the great blues guitarist are represented here with tunes from the early '50s to the late '60s, not one of them sounding dated. Kicking off with Muddy Waters doing "I Just Want to Make Love to You" and ending with "Lucille" by B.B. King, this release is packed with such goodness that I was disappointed to hear it end. Listen to this CD and you will realize why the blues is such a great influence on just about all the top musicians since the beginning of Rock~n~Roll.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

V/A - Blues Rock Songbook - CD
(Universal Records) This CD contains 12 great tunes which helps one hear how the blues was such an influence on Rock~n~Roll. While many on the songs still have the classic blues feel about them, a few are easily recognized as rocking blues. The most notable of these is Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode". There's also the Bo Diddley tune "I'm a Man" as well as Muddy Water's "(I'm Your) Hoochie Coochie Man" both which contain the classic blues/rock arrangement that has been used by just about everyone in the music business. Howlin' Wolf, John Lee Hooker, Little Walter, Bobby "Blue" Bland and Etta James are just a few of the other greats that can be found on this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

V/A - Bob Dylan Uncovered - CD
(Paradiddle Records) I have to say I was a bit skeptical when I first saw this release of various bands covering Bob Dylan tunes. I've heard too many compilations where the bands are from the same geographical area where one band out of the bunch would be good while the rest would suck. While some of the bands don't rise above my expectations, there are a few who are quite surprising. Russ Seeger sounds like Neil Diamond on his cover of "If You See Her Say Hello", which comes across pretty well. Caroline Doctorow infuse "One Too Many Mornings" with a bit of twang. While listening to this I thought that they would do a killer cover of "The Times they are A-Chanin". "Masters of War" is made more powerful with the haunting piano and vocals of Denise Donahue, while The Lone Sharks give "Down Along the Cove" that old time country-rock treatment. I guess what I liked best about this CD, even the bands whose songs didn't come across so well, is that the bands gave each song a new treatment as opposed to doing a carbon copy cover.
-- (2007)

V/A - Bottled Violence - CD
(Out of Step Records) 30 tracks of pure punk fun can be found on this little disk. There are so many great bands on this release, it's hard to pick out my favorites, but I guess I'll give it a try. Tsunami Bomb, 3rd Man In, Unsung Zeros and Burnside are just a few of the bands that stand out.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Bratz Forever Diamonds - CD
(Universal Records) Those horrible doll toys that teach girls how to be bratty sluts at a very early age are now a manufactured girl band aimed at the same post-toddler/pre-teen female demographic. The music and songs are generic all-girl pop band and this release just helps to push the realization of just how generic it is. There are a couple of mutilated covers including a reworking of David Bowie’s “Fashion” and Christina Aguilera’s “Beautiful”. Don’t get your kids hooked on this kind of sewage. Don’t.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - British Invasion Gold - CD
(Universal Records) The music on this disc spans the years 1963 – 1967 in which many British bands started appearing at the top of the American music charts. What I love best about this double disc release of 32 classic songs is the diversity of the music. CD 1 kicks off with a song by the pre-Ringo Beatles, “Ain’t She Sweet” which was recorded in 1961 but didn’t chart until 1964. Another ironic thing about this song is that while there are 3 songs on this release that were written by Lennon/McCartney, the one that they did perform wasn’t written by them. Other gems you can find on disc one include “I’m Telling You Now” by Freddie & the Dreamers, “She’s Not There” by The Zombies and “It’s not Unusual” by Tom Jones, who I always thought was American.

Guess you learn something new everyday. Disc 2 has more of a rocking lean to the songs. “Wild Thing” by the Troggs, “See See Rider” by Eric Burdon and the Animals, “Happy Jack” by The Who and “A Whiter Shade of Pale” by Procol Harem are a few of the great tunes that can be found on this disc which have a more modern feel as compared to the others. Still, Donavan’s “Sunshine Superman” and Lulu’s “To Sir With Love” are just a few more of the songs that made this my favorite disc of the two. This is one of those CD’s that you can’t go wrong with owning. Love it.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - James Brown's Funky People (Part 3) - CD
(Polydor Records) It's James Brown man, you just can't go wrong. Most of the tunes were recorded in the late '60s early '70s, with many of them just as singles or even previously unreleased. The CD is full of funk with the likes of Fred Wesley, The J.B.'s, Hank Ballard, Lyn Collins and many more. This is definitely one that you want to add to your collection.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - James Brown Remixed Dance Hits - CD
(Goldenlane Records) Oh yeah, this album just kicks. With 12 dance remixes of James Brown's best hits, you can't go wrong with this CD playing at any party. On some of the tunes the mixes are so awesome, it makes you want to step back. The Digital Johnson mix of "I Got You (I Feel Good) which kicks off the disc, is just a taste of what's to come. This CD also asserts the greatness of Maceo Parker, the sax player for James Brown, since his riffs on the sax play a dominant role in many of the mixes. This CD is Super Bad.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A -BYO Presents: Sample this, Too!- CD
(BYO Records) This is compilation of punk rock from one of the best punk labels around, BYO. If you've been into it for a bit you'll recognize most of the bands such as Rancid, The Bouncing Souls, Anti-Flag, Leatherface, NoFX, and Youth Brigade. There are also some great newer bands (to me at least) such as Manifesto Jukebox, Sixer and Manic Hispanic. Overall you get sixteen punk songs from sixteen punk bands. If you're new to the scene, then you should get this; but if you've been around for a while you're heard most of it before.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - CD:DZ-015 - CD
(hEADaCHE Records) This is a compilation put out by Headache Records featuring eleven bands in the Industrial / Goth / Metal realm. A majority of songs on this disc are good and the overall feel is nice and dark. My personal favorites include the industrial / goth sounds of True Logik and Things Outside the Skin, the early '80s goth of Invisible Asps and Shinma's song that made me image the Orcs attacking in Lord of the Rings to a techno beat. Overall a good look at some up and coming goth industrial bands.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - A Cellarful of Motown! - 2CD
(Universal Records) My boss at my real job is a rabid Motown freak. She has just about everything from Motown including albums and 45's. When I showed her this release she was salivating, and that's probably the best thing I can say about this CD. 40 tracks never before released on CD is what this disk is all about, and all of them with that classic Motown sound. The artists on this release include Gladys Knight & the Pips, The Temptations, Martha & the Vandellas, Marvin Gaye, The Isley Brothers, Jimmy Ruffin and more. This is nothing short of Astounding.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Center of the Universe 2 - CD
(Owned & Operated Recordings) This terrific compilation is full of beautiful pop punk in all it's glory. The song flow from band to band is right on. Each band presents two songs and oh what bands. Wretch Like Me, Armchair Martian, Bad Astronaut, Season to Risk, Shiner and so many more can be found here.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - The Chris & Joylene Show / Pupa's Window - CD
(The Beechfields Records) This is a CD that is split between two bands. The female vocal lead The Chris and Joyleen Show isn’t anything special. The band seems more like a hobby than an actual band. The male vocal lead Pupa’s Window is the better of the two. Pupa’s has a melodic acoustic sound with a bit a cheap synth. I would liken them to a nerdy Death Cab for Cutie. The songs are catch and garnered repeated listens by me. With 8 tracks represented on this release, I enjoyed just about all of them, especially “Grainy Film Summers”, “Whipped Cream” and “Penna State Line”. I would suggest that Pupa’s strike out on their own on their next endeavor, since I’m not sure how many people will be willing to wade through mediocre music of The C&J Show to get to the wonderful music on Pupa’s Window. Anyway, if you pick up this CD skip ahead to track 6, you will like what you hear.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

V/A - Christmas Number Ones - CD
(Universal Music Company) Given that this is a Christmas disc of all #1 songs it just what you'd expect. You get seventeen classic Christmas songs which were released by Universal. They range from 1993's Vince Gill doing "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" to 1942's Bing Crosby doing "White Christmas". It's a decent mix of songs, but heavy on the typical classics which makes since because they were hits. I prefer updated versions or totally new songs, but to each their own.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Christmas Classics On Piano - CD
(Universal Records) This Christmas release is perfect for classy holiday dinners or casual parties where you want music on in the background. Fourteen classic holiday songs are played by a number of famous contemporary pianists (George Winston, Jim Brickman, John Tesh). The result is a well done variety of classic Christmas songs to serve as the backdrop to your holiday festivities.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Classic Disco Number Ones - CD
(Universal Music Company) While the title of this compilation is "Classic Disco #1's" I can only find three that I would actually call Disco hits and they are the Village People's "YMCA", Lipps Inc.'s "Funkytown" and "Star Wars Theme" by Meco. There are two songs from the Flashdance movie "Flashdance. What A Feeling" and "Maniac" that I wouldn't even classify as disco, more or less classic disco. The rest of the songs on this disappointing release are what I would say the reason that the phrase "Disco Sucks" became so popular.
-- Mite Mutnant (2007)

V/A - Classic Rock Number Ones - CD
(Universal Music Company) This CD is great, but it kind of makes me feel old. You see along with the tunes that I consider classic rock ("American Woman" by the Guess Who, "Maggie May" by Rod Stewart, The Who's "You Better, You Bet", etc.), they included the song "Lightning Crashes" by Live. Which is a great song that was released in 1995, so I'm just saying. While I have heard many on the songs on this release many times, there were a couple that I forgot about that I was happy to hear, including "Brother Louie" by Stories. I also had the thought pop into my head when I listened to "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet" by Bachman-Turner Overdrive that it would be a great song for Ween to cover.

Apart from Elton John's cover of "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" this CD is flawless. Then again, the inclusion of this song could be a ploy to get people to buy this because it's probably a rarity. Anyway, this is going to make a great addition to my CD collection.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

V/A - Color While You Listen - 7"
(Koala Syndicate Records / Substandard Records) Five bands, one seven inch, and a collectors item as well. Only 500 of this little gem were released and we were lucky enough to get one of them. Side EH? starts off with the nice little ditty “Four Chords” by WEFest favorites, The Flashing Astonishers, which has a sound similar to the more pop punk era of The Replacements. Next up is another great band Visionstain, which come across as a punker version of The Replacements with the short tune “Job.” The final tune on this side is by Drunken Orgy of Destruction, which barley even deserves a mention.

Side BE? begins with a solid pop punk tune called “Kool Kidz” by Pale Green Stars. Too bad Negativ Seaven had to stick this side of the record up with their gruntfest called “Stillborn”.

Overall, the positive far outweighs the negative. And besides the cover begs to be colored in with you listen to this release, literally.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Concrete & Cornfields 2 - CD
(E-Mail Fanatic Records) Hey! This CD might be pretty decent. The first band is obviously trying to be like Nine Inch Nails, but I'm sure the other bands are going to sound better. Uuuuugggghhhh!!! How wrong I was. This CD is mostly filled with bad metal bands. A big poopoo is what this CD gets on a scale of one to ten.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A -D.R.I. Tribute - CD
(Malt Soda Recordings) This is a tribute comp containing 37 D.R.I. songs done by 37 different bands. I've heard of very few of the bands on this disk but did notice that Electric Frankestein, Capitalist Casualties, The Fartz and local favories The Jackalopes are included. Most bands do a good job taking their D.R.I. as their own and making it great. If you like punk and want punk then steal this fucker from somewhere...or if you're a "punk" drive your parents car to a store and buy it...
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Dancehall Essentials in a Rub-A-Dub Style - CD
(Universal Records) What a wonderful surprise it was to receive this release in the mail. 18 reggae tunes by many of the greats. Eek-A-Mouse, The Mighty Diamonds, Yellowman, Papa Levi, Wailing Souls. the list goes on. I had this baby on constant rotation for a week straight, I couldn't get enough of it. So light up a bit of the sweetleaf, skank around the room and get into the groove.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Darkbuster vs. Tommy & the Terrors - Split - CD
(Rodent Popsicle Records) This is fairly typical drunk punk from Boston. I think both bands are OK, but clearly Tommy & the Terrors wins the battle. Their songs are tighter and more interesting. There isn't much more for me to say about this release so I'll stop.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Dark Sonus Vol. 1 - CD
(Dark Sonus) This compilation features bands which all have an industrial foundation to their music. Many of the songs are decent enough, and there were a few standouts. The track that starts off the release, “Revolutions”, by the band v01d reminded me of a dancier version of Skinny Puppy meets Clock DVA. Seventh Image delivered a strong industrial rock tune, while PTI kept things going strong with their Bigod 20/Depeche Mode fusion sounding tune “iDentify”. Y-Luk-O’s “Dandelion’s Dream”, which features baritone male vocals and makes use of Middle Eastern vocals in the mix is also on my list of favorites.

The ethereal Goth tune complete with female vocals, “Seems to Be” from the band CEOXiMe was decent enough, but nothing real spectacular. While the music by Diverje is wonderful; the lyrics are a little bit too jr. high gothic. The bands Endif vs Leichenfeld and Hate Statement have sounds that are too much on the techno side for my liking. A good release overall, and defiantly deserves a few rotations on your CD player.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - The Deadites / The Hellions - 7"
(Center of the World Records) The Deadities start off with the song “Strange Fruit” which has a sound with a strong foothold in the ‘60s, but with a bit more punch. They end their side with “Let’s Play God (Big Boys Cover)" fully entrenched in punk rock goodness. The song sandwiched in between the two “Action House Party” is aptly placed since it’s sound is a combination of the other two tunes.

The Hellions side of the disc has a much harder punk sound, but neither song really stood out, although I could see both “It’s Alive” and “Give Up” as being crowd favorites at a live show for their intensity.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Deep House Culture - 3CD
(Hypnotic Records) This is a huge 3 CD Box Set of killer urban house music. Three different DJs are represented. DJ Snooby, DJ Nissan and DJ Ram each have a chance to show their stuff on their own disc of continuous house jams. Even though this isn't my kind of dance music, I can tell that the job the DJs do is fantastic. Those of you who enjoy these kind of tunes will do yourself a favor by getting this set and having your own dance party in your home.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - D[elEcTROnIc]T: Detroit Electronica Coalition Vol 2 - CD
(Delectronic) You get almost 72 minutes of Detroit's best electronica bands I was surprised to see that there are 17 electronica bands in that area that all sound decent even though I don't know much about this style. From my limited exposure of the genre I think that all these bands are better than average. My favs on this comp were Esion, Ceoxime, Filament, Spacescape, and Heterosonic.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - DElecTROnIcT V03 - CD
(Detroit Electronica) This is a really cool compilation of electronica bands from Detroit. I tend to prefer the bands which slide into the goth / industrial realm, but most are good and well within the arena of electronica. My favorites include the NINish Entluften, the danceclub style Doc Raymond, PiL-ish The Morning Star and the Skinny Puppy sounding Toybreaker. DElecTROnIcT 3 is a great idea to showcase the bands of this genre and if you like any type of electronica this disc is a sure bet to expand your horizons.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Discovery 2: Pain & Suffering - CD
(Columbia Records) This is a nine band / song comp from Columbia Records, promoting their latest hard rockin and rock / rap bands. Localy you can hear most of these bands on the X 103.9. Wherever you live there is a similar staion owned by the same company with the same playlist. Thes songs aren't bad and I actually like quite a few of the ones on here, however it just sounds like the new face of metal / hard rock...with one holdover Slayer. You also get Stereomud, Endo, The Union Underground, Flybanger, Spike 1000, Xecutioners, Tha Liks and Crazy Town. If you're into this sound then this is a great disk to listen to and figure out some new bands to check out. Otherwise avoid like the plauge.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Down By Law/Pseudo Heroes - Down By Law/Pseudo Heroes - CD
(Recess Records) I love just about everything about this release. From the cover art to the wonderful pop punk sound of the songs, it's all top notch. Half of the album is originals and half is classic covers. I have to say that while I loved the originals, I could have done without some of the covers. Down By Laws treatment of "The Kids are Alright" is great. Their cover of AC/DC's "Whole Lotta Rosie" is also killer, and there's also an AC/DC-ish rif on their original "Down & Out."
-- Howard X (2001)

V/A - Elton John's Christmas Party - CD
(Universal Records) "Let Elton John be your holiday DJ." Sounds like a scary prospect, does it not? Actually, this compilation was a lot better than I feared it might be. It is a fairly diverse array of fifteen songs by fourteen artists (Elton has two). Some very popular holiday songs are on here including: "Step Into Christmas" - Elton John, "Jingle Bell Rock" - The Ventures, "Run Rudolph Run" - Chuck Berry and "2000 Miles" - The Pretenders. The big surprise is the other songs that I've never heard of by the likes of The Flaming Lips, Rufus Wainwright and The Pet Shop Boys. One thing I'll never understand is why people put "New Year's Day" by U2 on Christmas comps...it's not a Christmas song! Other bands on this disc include: El Vez, The Beach Boys, Otis Redding, Jimmy Buffett, The Band and Kate Bush.

Overall a better than average Christmas disc which shows quite a bit of diversity. Sir Elton, you did a good job you wacky Brit.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - eMotive - CD
(Non Profit Music) "In Review"
-- (2007)

V/A - Essential Dub - CD
(ROIR) Dub is a genre that I really felt I didn't know...until I listened to this disc. The first band I noticed was Bad Brains, who I have loved since I first heard them back in 86. Dub is a groove based in reggae, especially the ever present bass, but with the vocals taken out and then blended with something more. The fourteen bands on this disc lay out dub in every possible form and extension. Blending in elements of punk, hip-hop, world, african tribal and metal into the steady stream of reggae. Dub artists like Oku Onuora, Dub Trio, Bush Chemists and Dr. Isreal make this release a wonder to listen and get in the groove.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Fall Asleep To This - CD
(Smart Ass Records) Yet another Punk compilation to wade through...but, hey, this one's pretty interesting. I don't think I've heard of any of the bands on it either. Many of the tracks are really loose, extremely short garage style Punk Rock, but I don't want to give the impression that they're shitty. I got a kick out of Section 8's "Let's Skate". I enjoyed Mart!ans' "Take Her Back". "I Hate Gym" by Sound Spasm was absolutely silly (in a good way). Pocket Protector did "Our First Song" which was totally whacked! I think my favorite cut was Floz's "Girls Are Dumb". The vocalist for Ferd Mert sounded frighteningly like Ben Schelker, (the deceased singer of Dayton, OH band !The Oxymorons!) and their song "Barbeque" clocked in at a wee 38 seconds. This CD is only $6 postage paid, so it might be worth your while to check out.
-- Tom CoreKill (2001)

V/A - A Fistfull of Rock 'n' Roll Vol. 7 - CD
(Victory Records) A fist full indeed. Nineteen kickin' bands unload their angst, which then jumps down your throat and gnaws on your bones. The beauties of Ramonish pop-punk, The Donnas, kick off the whole thing and provide the best song on this comp. Other notables include Push Rods, Hellside Stranglers and Retardos.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Fluorescent Tunnelvsion - 2CD
(Submergence Music) When I received the email concerning this release, I was enthused that I would be getting a cool CD of electronic space music. I have to admit that I was a little disappointed when I started listening to this double CD. The 17 tracks on this release are your basic musical soundscapes/prog-rock jams, where nothing really stood out. As much as I wanted to like this release, it just didn't do anything for me.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Flying High Again: The World's Greatest Tribute To Ozzy Osbourne - CD
(Magick Records) This truly is the world’s greatest tribute to Ozzy. If you like Ozzy or any 80’s metal than this disc is right up your alley. Twelve Ozzy songs are done by musicians from various bands and a few full modern bands. Sometimes this approach works out like on “I Don’t Know” with Jack Blades (Knight Ranger) on vocals, Reb Beach (Winger) on guitar, Jeff Pilson (Dokken) on bass, Paul Taylor on keyboards and Bobby Blotzer (Ratt) on drums. Other times it sucks like “Crazy Train” with Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) on vocals, Doug Aldrich (Hurricane) on guitar, Tony Levin (King Crimson & a ton of others) on bass and Jason Bonham (John Bonham’s son) on drums. The full bands include Lita Ford doing “Close My Eyes Forever” live, Children of Bodom doing “Shot in the Dark”, Icarus Witch doing “S.A.T.O.”, Forever Say Die playing “Bark at the Moon”, Novembers Doom covers “Revelation (Mother Earth)” and the Alex Skolnick Trio does “Goodbye to Romance”.

Other names you might know that appear are: Yngwie Malmsteen, Tommy Aldridge, Lemmy, George Lynch, Tony Franklin, Vinnie Colaiuta, Mark Slughter, Brad Gillis, Joe Lynn Turner and a host of others. If you like metal, especially from the 80’s then this is your disc.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Foldback Records - CD
(Foldback Records) This album features songs from The Crowd Scene, Alice Despard, The Simple Things, and Johnny J. Blair. The Crowd Scene was a nice beginning to the CDwith its catchy British pop. Alice Despard followed with her singer-songwriter folk with Indigo Girls like vocals (only no harmonizing). The pop rock of The Simple Things sped things up a bit. Johnny J. Blair seemed to decide to place almost every style of music he could into the three songs placed on the album, beginning with blues and latin dance in "Dancin' by the River." Then in "Love, Love Alone" he moves into cheesy lounge music, and finally in "Throw the First Stone" he manages to roll disco, gospel, and funk all in one.

Listening to this entire CD kind of gave me a headache. It began enjoyable but then lost it. I think it was Alice Despard, who is okay in small doses, but she became droning and obnoxious very quickly with what seemed like no vocal variation. The fact that they placed six songs from her on the 15 track album along with Johnny J. Blair's schizophrenic music choice did not help. Overall, the only band on the entire CD that I am not completely irritated by at this point is The Crowd Scene, in fact, I still kind of like them.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

V/A - Forward Til Death - CD
(Lookout Records) If there is just one compilation punk CD that you can afford this year it better be this one. This CD features tracks from all of Lookout Records releases in 1998. The bands that you will find on this release: Avail, The Donnas, Pansy Division, The Mr. T Experience, Gas Huffer, Citizen Fish and more. Other Standouts include: Groovie Ghoulies, Squirtgun, Servotron and Criminals. Get it, I say!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Fragments / Modren Machines - CD
(New Disorder Recordings) This split release shows why I've always loved Wisconsin. Ever since my band started playing there a decade ago, there has always been a strong scene and great, fun, action packed punk bands. From what I've read and heard these guys are all freinds and they have a blast playing the music they love. Their influences can be heard loud and clear: Husker Du, The Replacements, Naked Raygun...it's like melodic punk heaven. I like how the CD flows with each band taking turns every other song. What's really wild is that the Fragments song "Envy / Why Do You Hate Me?" sounds almost like "Volaire Ride from Hell" by the late 80's local band the U-Dogs. I really need to head back up to the cheese state. I miss all the people and the great shows...and even the cheese curd. Anyway, Modern Machines and Fragments are two reasons to say that punk is indeed alive and well and living in Wisconsin. Woohoo!!!
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - From All Sides - CD
(COTWR) This is a compilation of nineteen punk bands from all over the country playing twenty songs for your enjoyment. What's weird is that most my favorite bands on this are on the even numbered tracks with my favorite being Red Martian. I also liked The Golords and Spork. The bands on this release range from alternative pop-punk to hardcore punk. It's a decent compilation, but I really could only listen to half the bands.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Fully Automated: The Headache Remixes - CD
(Uncoiled Loops) This is a remix disc of 15 tracks from 15 bands. I'm not familiar with most of the original mixes, but these are all of the industrial / electronica persuation. Many remind me of old My Life With The Thrill Kill Cult, Ministry, Skinny Puppy or any number of bands that you'd hear at a goth / industrial club. Highlights include: Collide, Silvercord, Noxious Emotion, Flood Damage and Five Star Reject. A great release if you're into industrial.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Geek Monger Music Vol 1 - CD
(Murk Ta Records) This is billed as 20 bands you've never heard of but you soon will since they rock. Actually I've been fortunate enough to have lived in the midwest and see several of these bands. The ones I know and love are Pezz, Tales from the Birdbath (ex-Sicko), The Migraines, Jettison (have a song in American Pie 2), The Jackalopes and Superstar Rookie. Thanks to this disc I've also now heard Openhand, The Mixelpricks, The Banned, The Grand Prixx, Textbook, The Ninjas, Thundermug U.S., Manatee, The Mormons, 12cent, Tom Daily, Dead End Kids, Woolworthy and Charlie Pathetic. I have to agree that all these bands are great and deserve extra attention.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Gothic Club Classics - 2CD
(SPV) This disc starts off with one of the first goth songs I ever heard. I was just beginning to discover college radio and I had popped in a tape one night to record WWSU. The first song I caught was "Wasteland" by The Mission. I loved this song and it was the starting point that drew me away from metal and the 70's rock monsters. I've never been a total Goth punk, but I do love plenty Goth songs and these two discs are loaded with them. Other than the Mission there are also songs from Bauhaus ("Bela Lugosi's Dead" - of course), Cassandra Complex, Alien Sex Fiend, Type O Negative, Killing Joke, Love Like Blood and a load of other songs so dark and gloomy that your whole room will turn black...
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - H.E.A.R. This - CD
(Sub City Records) Ohhhh yeahhhhh!!! Twenty-seven tunes from twenty-seven bands and not one of them is bad. And boy what bands! Scared of Chaka, Jon Cougar Concentration Camp, Other Star People, The McRackins, Shonen Knife, Piss Ant, Toxic Reasons. I wish I could list them all. Some of the money from CD sales will go to support H.E.A.R. which is a non-profit organization made up of musicians, DJs, sound engineers, music fans, doctors and professionals dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of repeated exposure to excessive noise levels. For more info go to www.hearnet.com.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Harley-Davidson: Legendary Road Songs - CD
(The Right Stuff) This released is filled with a slew of classic rock tunes which make up a perfect soundtrack for an afternoon of driving or riding on the highways and back roads. Whitesnake, The Cult, ZZ Top, BOC, Thin Lizzy. they're all here.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Hollywood Rocks - CD
(Cleopatra Records) It's like the producers here were fishing at the bottom of a '80s hair metal fans trashcan when they came up with the songs they choose for this release. Let's face it, releases like this are all about nostalgia for the hits, not the mediocre songs. Dokken, Quiet Riot, Great White, Poison, Ratt and the various other "Hollywood" metal bands had much better songs than the ones sampled here. If you are a true metal head and don't mind demo quality and obscure songs then this is for you. If you just want to hear the hits of your youth, then check somewhere else.
-- Mite Mutant (2005)

V/A - Hot Curly Weenie Vol. 2 - CD
(Recess Records) Chocked full of acne-punk, this release is sure to satisfy your punk monkey. Over a third of the tunes are previously unreleased. John Cougar Concentration Camp, Kankersores, Pud and F.Y.P. are just a few of the groups that spit out the many tunes on this gem of a punk CD
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Idenity 7: Deadly Sins - CD
(Century Media Records) Indentity 7 is jam packed with 19 of the loudest, hardest bands you will ever hear. This is the music that Century Media is known for and the fully deliver on this disc. Bands included are: Skinlab, Scar Culture, Jag Panzer, Lucuna Coil, Carnal Forge, Iced Earth and many others.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Independent Music Fest - CD
This release is packed with great music including some of my faves from WE2K, most notably Prosolar Mechanics. There are some bands here that just sounded so-so, but don't let that stop you from picking up this disk and exposing yourself to a load of new bands.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - The Best of International Hip-Hop - CD
(Hip-O / Universal) This is very odd. It's a collection of fourteen hip-hop bands from around the world. You get bands from places such as Israel, Romania, Portugal, Croatia, Argentina and Algeria. While I'm not a huge fan of Hip-Hop, I do find this collection entertaining and a bit amusing. You haven't lived until you hear an Israeli rap.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Isreal Unleashed - CD
(JMG) This compilation features fifteen of the best metal and rock bands from "the holy land", meaning Isreal. I really didn't know that they had a metal scene there, but I guess just about everywhere has one. The bands are better than I expected are basically sung in English. The songs ranged from the Thrash metal grindcore of Abed to the very 80s hair metal sound of Distorted and everything in between. Abed had the lead track and was one of the more interesting bands. They had a great metal thrash soundand cookie monster vocals mixed in with a singer who sounds like Serj Tankian of System of a Down. I enjoyed a majority of the tracks, but too many seemed to dwell on the horrible 80s metal sound that I hoped had died out forever.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Lab X Sampler - CD
(Lab X Records) Most of the bands on this compilation come from the Brainiac / XBXRX school of rock. Their website lists six tracks, but my copy had eight songs. The lead of track was by Oxymoronatron who play odd robot love child infused rock. Next up were another long time Dayton band My Latex Brain playing a song that was cross between XBXRX and The Dead Kennedy's. COG was like Adam & His Package; you get a drum machine, casioesque keyboards and geeky as hell vocals. 7 inch Wave did a great dead on B-52's sound, from the odd voice of Fred Schneider to the background vocals of Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson and Thomas Dolbyeque keyboards. Geeky fun rock. Junior High Mustache Ride was very similar to Oingo Biongo and Talking Heads. Cobra Bite was like being trapped in a mid 80's video game. The seventh "hidden" track is a three chord instrumental punk rock style song. Very 77's sounding lo-fi rock all the way. The finale was a short oddball keyboard number with a harpsichord sound. A great compilation by song under rated bands. Plus they give it away at shows for free!
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Listen or Pose - CD
(Abacus Recordings) Here's another sampler from Abacus Recordings showcasing their newest talent. The release has a strong beginning with Swarm of the Lotus sounding like a Max-era Sepultura. Then Caliban rears their ugly head and messes things up by sounding like everyone you've ever heard only with blown vocal chords.

Thankfully three bands that I really dig, Devilinside, Glass Casket and Heaven Shall Burn, were on this disc as well. They helped take the stench out the the vile music of Caliban put into my eardrums, and convinced me to not douse the CD in lighter fluid and torch the damn thing.

Still my big find was the band Maroon. They gained my full attention with their brutally tight playing and wonderfully demonic vocals. As an added bonus, there are four videos for PC users. These videos by Glass Casket, All Else Failed, Caliban (*cough-pieceofshitband -cough*), and Burnthe8track aren't that great, and you would do better to merit the bands on their music first.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

V/A - Maserati/Cinemechanica/We Versus The Shark - CD
(Hello Sir Records) This is the first release from Hello Sir Records featuring six songs from three bands. Maserati are first up and play shoegazer / emo instrumentals that a have a beautiful, trace like quality to them. I could see these being used in a movie similar to Pi or an intense portion of any cerebral thriller. Next up is Cinemechanica who have a great song title "I'm tired of Paul McCartney". Their first song is another instrumental of a more aggressive, but still emo flavor. I think they could really be something if vocals were added. I am currently creating lyrics in my head, or at least the instrumentation of the vocals. This is good but I'd like it so much better if there were lyrics. The song about Paul has lyrics and they are about what I imagined on the first song. They have a bit of an At The Drive-In sound to them. Lastly is We Versus the Shark playing odd dissonant tunes with male/female vocals mixed in the mash. They have elements of The Nations of Ulysses in them along with some Sonic Youth and White Stripes. I like them a lot better than the first time I listened to this disc. The recording is really raw and gives a good idea of what it would be like to experience them live. This is a pretty good opening release from a label that holds a lot of promise. Hopefully, they will continue to put out more interesting disc.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits - 2CD
(Universal Records) OK, I'll bet that most of you reading these reviews don't like listening to classical music (even if you like it on Bugs Bunny). However, I like quite a bit of it and this is a great representation of forty of the best composers of the last millennium. Even if you don't listen to classical I'm sure you heard of Bach, Brahms, Beethoven, Strauss, Vivalidi, Wagner, Handel, Chopin and my favorite Mozart. Give it a whirl and if it doesn't do it for you then give it to an old relative and I'm sure they'll appreciate it.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Modern Rock Number Ones - CD
(Universal Music Company) This is a fifteen song release featuring modern rock bands on the Universal label which had #1 hits between 1990-2002. I was happy to see some of the bands that were on the disc since I didn't have a copy of a particular song. The three songs I was happiest to see on here were "Jealous" by Gene Loves Jezebel, "So Alive" by Love And Rockets and "Novicaine for the Soul" by the Eels. There are also hits from INXS, 3 Doors Down, Live, The Cranberries, Dishwalla, Smash Mouth, Tears For Fears, Barenaked Ladies, Alien Ant Farm, Everlast, Sum 41 and Hole. I personally like every song on the release and think the song flow is done rather well. If you like 90's modern rock then this disc is a no brainer.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - The Best of Motown Volume 1- CD
(Universal Records) Kicking off with the Diana Ross hit "I'm Coming Out" (aka the belly button song) and ending with the Jermaine Jackson tune "Let's Get Serious", this CD is all that and more. This songs were so in tune with the '80s sound that I was surprised to find that they were on the Motown label. Mary Jane Girls' "In My House", Debarge's "Rhythm of the Night", and Rockwell's "Somebody's Watching Me" are just a few of the tunes that made the '80s such a great decade for music. This is a must for any Motown or '80s music freak.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - The Best of Motown Volume 2- CD
(Universal Records) This CD doesn't have as many memorable hits as Vol. 1, and is hurt by the pacing due to the placement of the songs. A few of the tunes that make this worth the listen include Rick James' "Super Freak", Commodores' "Lady(You Bring Me Up)", and "Respect Yourself" by Bruce Willis (Yes, Bruce Willis).
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Movin On Up- CD
(Ringmaster Records) If you want a compilation CD consisting of a couple of dozen solid pop-punk bands, then this release is for you. Twenty-four tunes from 24 bands, and not a one of them bad. The groups on this release remind me of the bands that made up early '90s Dayton music scene. A few of the standouts include the SNA tune "Great Endeavor" which reminded me of Screeching Weasel, and "High School Mellanoma" by the band Funny Looking Kid. Pick this release up and you will also be helping out the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, since the proceeds from this compilation goes to support them. You can't go wrong.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

V/A - Music Inspired By The Big Chill - 3CD
(Universal Chronicles) You need to go out and get this right now. This is one of the best compilations that I have ever heard. The 3 CD set was inspired by one of my all time favorite movies, "The Big Chill". The fact that the original movie soundtrack to "The Big Chill" is nothing short of fantastic, helps to esculate this particular release to my top 10 releases of the year. While some of the songs on this set are on the movie soundtrack, not all of them are, and not all of the songs on the soundtrack are included on this set.

While the movie is set in the '80s, the music is from the late '60s early '70s, which is the music of the characters youth. This means that you get to hear the best songs from great artists such as Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Rascals, Procol Harum, Percy Sledge, The Band, Stevie Wonder, The Mamas & The Papas, and so many more. There are 33 songs that make up this release and everyone is a classic. If you are not familar with the movie, go out and rent it today. Then go get this release. You won't be dissapointed
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Negative Impact Vol. 1 - CD
(Third Wave Collective) This compilation starts off with a nice industrial tune by JILT called “JILT-DJ VI” which has a dance club Rob Zombie feel to it. N.U.T.E. keeps the goodness flowing with their brooding tune “ROSB”. AM22 takes us back to the cheesy ‘80s with the synth tune “Greed”, while Infinity Interrupt get hauntingly dark with the Clock DVA inspired “Retinal Fetish”. It’s then back to the ‘80s synth dance sound with the appropriately titled “Cheese Ball” by BioCarbon 13. While most of the bands are on this comp more than once, many of the remaining tunes have their failures due to either bad lyrics, bad instrumentals, just being too cliché or a combo of three. The one exception is Off World Kick Murder Squad with the tune “The Warmth of Morphine”, which reminded me of the early ‘90s band “Dark”.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Never Mind the Sex Pistols - Here's the Tribute - CD
(Radical Records) It has never ceased to amaze me how many releases either by the Sex Pistols or about them there are given the lack of songs that they recorded. Sure I loved the pistols, but what is the fascination. Actually, why have seventeen modern punk bands cover the pistols and have all the songs sound just about like the originals? I'd rather just take out Never Mind the Bollocks. I like quite a few of the bands on this CD, but I just can't take this right now.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - New York's Hardest Vol 3 - CD
(Go Kart Records) If you want some NYHC then this is what you want to buy. This third edition has 24 songs by 12 of NYC's hardest bands including one of my old times favorites S.O.D. featuring Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian. I used to listen to them back in the late '80s. It's great to hear them again. Along for the ride are some other great bands such as Agnostic Front, The Step Kings and Prevent Falls. Get this and start a pit.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - No Concessions Vol.1 & Vol.2 - Cassette
(NC Records) These two cassettes features songs from various European punk bands. With a click of a tape recorder and a muffled introduction between bands, these cassettes have that home taped feel about them. Some of the bands on the cassettes suck, while others belt out top-notch punk. If I had to choose between the two, I would say that Vol.2 is the one to get. So for a measly $5 per cassette you can find out what punk sounds like in another part of the world.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - NoFX / Rancid - CD
(BYO Records) This is a pretty cool split CD. If you know anything about punk you're familiar with both bands...if you have limited exposure then you've only heard of Rancid. They are two of the better punk bands in existence and are quite different. Where NoFX plays punk-pop and is silly, Rancid brings in more hardcore and ska to their mix and are more sociopolitical. The coolest thing about this disk is that each band covers the others songs...and do an impressive job putting their own spin on them. This is definitely a keeper and one for you to seek out.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Not So Quiet on the Coldfront - CD
(Coldfront Records) The cool thing about pop-punk lable compilations is that they put tons of bands that absolutely rock on the releases. This one is no exception. Filled with great tunes from the likes of Divit, All Systems Go, Hagfish, Wesley Willis and more. Get this now!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Now That's What I Call Music 9 - CD
(Universal Records) Twenty hits from 2002. If you're into pop and top 40 hits then you know all about this series and most likely own this already. I reviewed one of these a while back and liked the mix of artists on in. However, I feel that too much of it is just straight pop and R&B. Not that those are bad, but it really could use a bit more variety. You get some bands that I can deal with like: U-2, Pink, Nelly Furtado, Adema, Incubus, Lenny Kravitz, Shikira and even Britney. But you also get Mary J. Bilge, Ja Rule, Ludacris, Mr. Cheeks, Petey Pablo, City High, Destiney's Child, Nsync, Ginuwine and the Backstreet Boys. The bottom line is if you like comps of hits that have limited staying power then by all means buy this release otherwise take a pass.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Now 25 - CD
(Universal Records) Like the others in the NOW series this disc features songs of several genres which are hits on the popular stations. The album is diverse and progresses (or regresses depending on your point of view) through styles from rock to pop to hip-hop to R&B to rap to country. You get hits from many Universal Records stars like Fall Out Boy, Avril Lavigne, Gwen Stefani, Pink, Keith Urban, Daughtry and fourteen others. If you like hit music or just want to check out what the "kids" are listening to nowadays, then the NOW series is a good place to start. I like it because I'm a sucker for pop and this way I can grab a few songs I'd never get otherwise.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Old School vs. New School - CD
(Zomba Recording Corp.) Modern day platter spinners remix the tunes of bands that were the shit in the early 90's (Kool Moe Dee, A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince and The Stone Roses). It's nice to hear remixes of tunes that I enjoyed during my college years. As for my review, all I have to say is that this is one EXCELLENT CD Any song on this release is far better than most of the (C)rap music that is being put out today.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - On This Christmas Night - CD
(Universal Records) OK, now I'm not a huge fan of Christmas music, actually I'm not much into holidays…except maybe Halloween. Anyway, there are times that I can get into Christmas music during December as long as it's really good. Music is music regardless of the reason it's being created. The problem I have with release like this is that it really reeks. Most of these tracks were written by Chris Christian and performed by other artists of the Christian persuation which make sense since it is a Christian holiday. However, this comes off as a light and cheesy 70s style trainwreck of a bad idea. This is one Christmas release to avoid even if you love the holiday and the music.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Painted Thin - A Loveless Kiss / Sixty Stories - Different Places to Sit - CD
(Small Man Records) This is a split CD with one member in common, Paul Furgale. Don't worry if you don't recognize the name, neither do I. But he played bass and sang in Painted Thin and recorded this in Germany in 1997, then he played drums in Sixty Stories and recorded this in Canada 2001. One CD, two bands, two continents, five people. Sixty Stories is by far the better band and bring to mind Goodness / Hammerbox mixed with a bit of Letters to Cleo. Jo's vocals and lyrics are a bit weak, but I think they could improve in time. Painted Thin has more of a straight college rock sound and a talk/ sing vocal style. I could see them being the local band that opens a bunch of all age shows, but not much else.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Parx-C - A Compilation of Independent Music - CD
(Clear Springs Entertainment) When it comes to independent music compilations it's always hit and miss, with a majority of the releases just plain sucking. No so with this release. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. While most of the songs have a mellow acoustical singer/songwriter feel to them, there are a few rocking tunes on this release as well like Agent with the tune "Crave".

I've listened to this release many times now and just about every tune is a winner. There are a few standouts that caught my ear with each listen. Things get started off right with the catchy tune "Pushover" by The Long Winters. However, I was a bit confused in the middle of the release and then realized it was because two songs somehow ended up on the same track. So while you're listening to track 9 know that halfway through you will have a nice little surprise when Jenny Dalton starts singing "Lily and the Stranger" which reminded me a bit of Tori Amos. The you will have to pay close attention to the liner notes and lyrics to make sure the artist you're listening to is actually who you think they are. Anyway, Amanda Rogers "Drive" is another lovely tune as is the Todd Weidner sounding "Pair of Horses." But my favorite track on the release by far is "The Devil Came Back for You", by Katie Brianna. It reminded me of another Australian singer which I love, Kasey Chambers. This is one of the most enjoyable comps that I have heard in a long time.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

V/A - Plea for Peace Take Action - CD
(Subcity Records) From the get go this CD rocks. The Alkaline Trio get things kickin' with "My Standard Break from Life" with is a hit if I ever heard one. Hot Water Music's cover of "Dreamworld" is just as good as the original. One of my favorite bands, AFI is another standout. Just about every punk rock genre is represented here. And with most of the 28 tracks being, previously unreleased, rare or live, this CD is a must for any music fan. Believe me, this disc is just jammed with good stuff, so don't be an idiot. Get this now!!!
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

V/A - The Poo Poo Platter - CD
(ADD Records) The CD is filled with a few good tunes and much scatological musings. Wasn't too bad, until the end with the a cappella version of "All the Bad Songs" by Blink 180 Poo. The parody was bad enough with music. A word of advice, if you're gonna make fun of someone make sure that you don't suck ass yourself
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Pop & Circumstance - CD
(Eskimo Kiss Records) This is a compilation of bands put out by the folks at Eskimo Kiss Records. The nineteen bands on this CD all have a melodious sound. One of the tunes that I really loved was "I Want to be your Jefferson Airplane" by The Swimmies. The female vocals remind me a bit of the Blake Babies, while the music has an on the edge poppy feel about it. Other standouts include The Kate Rays, Will Simmons, and of course "The Aging Wrestler" by The Torch Maruader, who is one of the best live performers that I have seen.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Poor Boy: Songs of Nick Drake- CD
(Songlines Recordings) I know Nick Drake had a mellow style, but the majority of the musicians take his song to an even mellower level, and not to favorable results. If you are not familiar with Nick Drake, then please don't listen to this release and think the music here is a good representation on his style. The one standout was "Things Behind the Sun" by Bill Horist & Sam Mickens. I thought there was another good tune, "Road" by Veda Hille & Robin Holcomb/Francois Houle, but even this song faltered by melting into a boring instrumental.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Punk Goes Metal - CD
(Fearless Records) Oh my God! Punk pop bands doing the "best" metal songs from the 80's. Am I in heaven or what? Come on, I asked you a question punk! Tell me right now... Oh yeah, this is supposed to be a friggin review. OK, you have seventeen punk bands doing metal tunes. Since I'm a child of the 80's and was in a punk pop band later on this totally rocks. Actually my first cover band in high school played several of these songs, even though I notice that Iron Maiden is absent from the song list and Ozzy is represented twice. Bands from Warrent to Slayer are covered by bands like Link 80, Dynamite Boy, AFI and Ten Foot Pole.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

VA - Punk-O-Rama - CD
(Epitaph Records) More fun than a barrel of feces throwing monkey's, this CD has tunes from a slew of your favorite punk rock heroes. NoFX, Deviates, Rancid, Dropkick Murphys, All, Bad Religion, Voodoo Glow Skulls and Pennywise (w/Excene Cervenka) are just a few of the hoodlum types that can be found here. Some of the tunes are off of the various band's albums, some are brand new. Anyway you look at it you NEED this CD
-- Howard X (2001)

V/A - Pure 60's - CD
(UTV Records) There are 26 tracks on this release, every one of them great. The thing that I absolutely love about this release is that it contains a couple of songs from each year of the '60s. This CD lets the listener hear the gradual changes in the music during the decade. From the '50s sounding "Runaround Sue" by Dion and Lesley Gores "It's my party" to the psychedelic feel of "Incense and Peppermints" by Strawberry Alarm Clock to the hippish 5th Dimension hit "Aquarius/Let the Sun Shine in", this disc covers it all. A top rate compilation.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Pure '80s #1s - 2CD
(Universal Records) This is another ‘80s music compilation featuring music from what I like to call “the MTv ‘80s” era. There are so many ‘80s comps out right now; it’s hard to think these songs aren’t on a few of them. My particular faves here include “Need You Tonight” by INXS, “Kids in America” by Kim Wilde, “Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds and “Notorious” from the early MTv group Duran Duran. There are more MTv ‘80s gems to be found here, so check it out yourself.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Pure 80's Rocks - CD
(UTV Records) OK, now my past has caught up with me. This release has 18 hardrock / metal songs from the 80's and I used to rock out to almost every one of them. Actually my high school cover band played several of these songs. What big haired bands are on this travesty you ask? Well here's a partial list: Night Ranger, Ratt, Cinderella, Whitesnake, L.A. Guns, Scorpions, Rainbow.... Rock on dudes!
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Pure Blues - CD
(Universal Records) You must have this CD. Go get it now! I'm telling you it's nothing short of incredible. Packed full of killer blues classics from the masters themselves. Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, John Lee Hooker, Koko Taylor, B.B. King, Robert Cray, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble and one of my old time favorites, Big Mama Thorton are just a taste of the greats on this compilation. This is now my favorite blues CD that I have in my collection.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Pure Slow Jams - CD
(UTV Records) I'm only half-way though listening to this CD and I love it already. There are 18 hits on this compilation, with only one I would get rid of. The comp lives up to its name to the fullest. This wonderful release features tunes from Bill Withers, L.T.D. featuring Jeffrey Osborne, The Temptations, Jackson 5, Marvin Faye, Al Green, Aretha Franklin. the list just goes on. Now that I finished listening to this release, I would have to say it's one of those compilations that stands above the rest. This is perfect dim the lights put on the moves make out music CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Putumayo Presents: Americana - CD
(Putumayo World Music) This is another wonderful compilation from the folks at Putumayo. On this release they feature singer-songwriters whose music helps us explore America's rural musical roots, the styles which are collectively known as Americana. The CD gets off to a great start with RobinElla's tune "Down the Mountain" which reminds me of one of my favorite folk singers to see live, Kate Jacobs. Next up is Mulehead with the tune "Frankie Lee". If you like Todd Snider, then you will like Mulehead. The same can be said for Josh Ritter and his tune "Harrisburg". Songs that have an old time country flavor are represented by The Little Willies with the song "It's Not You It's Me" and "Sweet Tequilla Blues" by Chip Taylor and Carrie Rodriguez.

All in all there is only one bad tune on this release and it comes at the end. This is one of those repeat plays CD. You will not be disappointed.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

V/A - Putumayo Presents: Gypsy Groove - CD
(Putumayo Grooves) This has been my first exposure to their series of world beat compilations and realize I have missed out on much. This disc features eleven bands from all over Eastern Europe along with a one from the US and one from Isreal. As the name reveals this is a mix of gypsy music with dance beat grooves. While there are no bad tracks here, I do have some favorites including Gipsy.cz with their mix of Russian / Gypsy / Rap and Balkin Beat Box's mix of dance floor rhythms, jazz along with an intermingling of traditional Jewish sounds. Also in the mix are Karen Gafurdjanov's "Yor Uzga" which is a great mix of hip-hop, Uzbekistanian gypsy music and a great background groove. My two favorites are near the end of the disc; Kistehen Tanczenekar's "Viragok a Reten" which brings to mind a multigenerational family gypsy jam with elements of folk, ska, reggae and hip-hop blending with the Balkin base. My favorite though is the self described Gypsy / Tango / Klezmer / Punk / Acoustic String band sound of New York's Luminescent Orchestrii. The mix of two violins, guitar, bass and harmonica blend amazingly well to form an excellent base for the seductive vocals which if translated to English wouldn't be half as wonderful.

If you like world music you owe it to yourself to check out some releases from Putumayo Records. To make things even better they have their booklet in three languages and a portion of the profits from each release go to a specific charity. This one supports the Roma Education Fund. Great music and a worthwhile cause, I love it!
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Putumayo Presents: Tango Around the World- CD
(Putumayo World Music) Another great Putumayo Release. This one takes a look at the Tango genre with a heavy focus on Argentina, due to a portion of the proceeds going to an Argentinean charity. The eleven songs on the disc present a very diverse look at Tango around the world and how it mutates dependant on the local culture. Dispirit countries are represented such as; Finland's M.A. Numminen & Sanna Pietiaiene with their polka styled Tango, Serbia's Earth Wheel Sky Band doing a gypsy based polka and Argentina's Hugo Diaz doing a more traditional styled Tango. Overall this is one of the stronger Putumayo releases with a great richness in the diversity shown and the worldwide talent that is showcased.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Putumayo Presents: World Hits - CD
(Putumayo World Music) I was a bit worried about this release when the second song kicked in. The first tune, "(You Gotta Walk) Don't Look Back" featuring Peter Tosh and Mick Jagger, was a weak reggae song with big name singers. The second tune was a bit of the same, minus the big name singer (at least in the US). I thought I was in for a CD full of this stuff. I was relieved when the next tune featuring Youssou N'Sour and Neneh Cherry started to play. The tune "7 Seconds" had a nice east meets west feel to it and set the stage for the music to come. Every song following the first two is great. Standouts included "Oye Como Va" by Santana, "The Harder They Come" by Jimmy Cliff, "Bomboleo" by the Gipsy Kings and "Soul Makossa" by Manu Dibango. You really can't go wrong with this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

V/A - Putumayo World Party - CD
(Putumayo Grooves) Another great mix of world music by Putumayo, but not their strongest. The Songs all fit into the "world party" theme with songs like "Ciuri Ciuri" by Roy Paci & Aretuski, a traditional Italian folk song to Salsa "Wonte Monte" by Jean-Philippe Marthely, Jean-Paul Pognon & Jean-Luc Guanel. There are a few tracks that I think bring down the whole collection such as the very 70's soul feel of "Sunshine Day" by Osibisa. My favorites other than the aforementioned two are "Minde Se" by Laureny Hounsavi and the Zydeco of Beau Jacque and the Zydeco Hi-Rollers. A great mix of styles to make you party, but with a few duds it might be better to just rip some of the tracks and add them to your own party mix.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

V/A - Redefine the Rockstar Volume 2 - CD
(3:16 Productions) This is supposed to be the best in unsigned rock bands. Well I was ready to stop the disk during the first song since it sucked so bad. However, I decided to go past it and see what else this comp had in store for me. Life of Riley played some decent college rock then Orcus hit with some metal. I soon realized that this is one of those all inclusive compilations where you get tons of diversity (as far as rock is concerned), but you don't have much cohesiveness and you get quite a few lame bands. After slagging through twenty-one bands I vowed to never again review a compilation...but I know it won't stick due to me knowing that I will come across a handful of good bands. This is the case with Life of Riley, SOS, 5 Cent Deposit, the appropriately named Powersurge and finally Rage Against the Machine wannabe's Xashinto.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Release the Cheerfulness, China Ground Up 2 - CD
(Noise Order Recordings) Back in 1995 Jason Kopec loaded up a backpack of recording equipment and headed to China to do field recordings of street and classical Chinese arrangements as well as sonic samplings of the places he visited. The resulting mixes on this CD range from relaxing melodic instrumental pieces to grating soundscapes. At times I was reminded of the music from the Akira Kurosawa movie Dreams. I would have liked it if the 14 tracks on this release were titled or if more info was given in the liner notes concerning the music of China so listeners would be able to gain a better understanding and appreciation of what they were hearing. Overall, I preferred the minimalist tracks on this release minus any vocals.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

V/A - Rocky Horror Tribute: Absolute Pleasure - CD
(Center of the World Records) Just like the movie that inspired it, this release is pure fun. Grog didn't like the straight delivery of "Science Fiction Double Feature", but I loved it. We both give The Wallys rendition of "Dammit Janet" two sluts up. Other standout groups were the brooding Dysaster Area with "I Can Make You a Man" and Floor Show and Croatan and their Ethyl Meetplowish cover of "Toucha Toucha Touch Me". The only group that I thought didn't do a song justice was Kung Fu Grip and their rendition of "Hot Patuti". This release is a virtual carnival of tomfoolery. I love it!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Roots & Branches (Johnny Cash Tribute) - CD
(Universal Records) "In Review"
-- (2006)

V/A - The Rose That Grew From Concrete Vol.1 - CD
(Universal Records) This is a Tupac Shakur tribute CD with a slew of artists who provide their own interpretations of songs that were written by Tupac. I was never that big of a Tupac fan and never really listened to any of his songs. However, while listening to the songs on this release, I can see why his music was so popular. The lyrics are wonderful and heartfelt. I also like the way that his songs are presented by the different artist. While some of the artists took the rap approach, others opted for other options in their interpretations. Dan Rockett gives a gut wrenching acoustic folksy spin to the tune "Sometimes I Cry" while Chief Okena Littlehawk gives an intense spoken word spin to "The Sun & The Moon".
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - School's Out Christmas - CD
(UTV Records) Who in the hell came up with the idea of putting this CD out? An Alvin and the Chipmunks release has more credibility than this CD. Hell, drunk hillbilly's farting into a tape recorder would have better credibility. Basically this CD contains "20 tracks by today's hottest young stars!," who are quickly on their way to becoming tomorrows lamest has-beens. Truly horrid.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - Smooth & Soulful Christmas - CD
(Universal Records) I guess if you're into the various musicians on this release (Patti Austin, Take 6, Marilyn McCoo, etc.) and enjoy mind numbing and dull Christmas music done in a '80s R&B style, then you might want this for your collection. I, however, found this to be one of the worst Christmas comps I have every heard. Bahh.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

V/A - Spanglish 101 - CD
(Kool Arrow Records) The concept behind this compilation is to present music from bands that fuse their native spoken communication and culture with Western music. It's basically a compilation of punk, rap, hardcore and alternative bands singing partly in Spanish and partly in English. This CD seems to focus on harder edged music, but does have some smoother sounding groups represented. One of the better tracks is "Tribe is My Pride" by Tezacrifico, which sounds a bit like early Suicidal Tendencies with dance mixes thrown in here and there.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Soulful Behavior: Mixed by DJ Addiction- 2CD
(Run Recordings) This is a 2-CD full of dance club mixes. With 27 tunes in all you can have your own dance party and now have to worry about hiring a DJ. This would also be a great CD to listen to while driving your car late at night. The grooves infest your limbs and cause them to dance with the beats. This is actually one of the best and most consistent (in it utter goodness) releases of this type that I have ever heard.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

V/A - The Sound The Hare Heard - CD
(Kill Rock Stars) When I see the label Kill Rock Stars I think about riot grrrl bands like Bikini Kill, Bratmobile, Heaven's to Betsey, the Bangs and Sleater-Kinney. So it surprised me to hear this disc of folk musicians. I picked this up at a show that featured four of the artists from the compilation when they played down in Newport, KY. My favorites include: Laura Weirs, Thao Nguyen, Lauren Hoffman, Death Vessel, Owen McCarthy, Simone White, Southerly, Colin Meloy, Aliccia BB & Danielle Howle. They range from very Elliot Smith sounding solo artists to full folk acoustic bands. We've reviewed about five of these bands in the past, so it was good to hear a bit of familiar tunes within the twenty-one tracks. Overall it was a great compilation even if it does seem contrary to my image of the label.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Soundtrack to Summer - CD
(Beggars Group) This is a comp put out by Beggars Banquet of new releases for the Summer. I thought it was a pretty good representation of what the label was about and found myself liking most of the ten bands that were included. My favorites were Kristen Hersh with her soft, haunting acoustic style and Scannerfunk with some great electronica dance rhythms.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Space 380 Compilation: Transmission Two - CD
(Space 380 Records) This is a very cool compilation, mostly because there is so much diversity in the music. World New Age, Alterna-Punk, Soulful-Bluesy Rock, Groovin' TX Blues, are just a few of the descriptions on the various bands on this release. It almost reminds me of the Certain Damage compilation cassettes that were around in the early '90s when college radio meant something in the area. Two of the bands who I liked on this release were TRS-80 with Phat Electronic Beats and the Hip-Hop Rap styling of King B.A.V.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - The State I'm In - CD
(Universal Records) This is a comp of songs by bands that were on the “ Garden State” movie soundtrack or who the person who put the comp together thought could have been on the soundtrack. And like most compilations, it’s very uneven. “Sunday Morning” by The Velvet Underground, “Three Times a Lady” by the Commodores and “The Wind” by Cat Stevens are the classic tunes that I recognized on the disc. The other, Serge Gainsbourg’s “Requiem Pour Un Con” was recorded in 1968, but has a modern sound which reminds me of a stripped down Einsturzende Neubauten.

Most of the modern tunes are unimpressive with the exceptions being “Maps” by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, “Motorcycle” by Remy Zero and the wonderful tune “Breath In” by Frou Frou, which seems almost like a Sundays cover.
In the end you have 6 good songs out of 12, which isn’t too bad as far as comps go.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - The Statutory Ape -vs- The Gut-Bugs - 7"
(Burnt Sienna Records) "In Review"
-- (2007)

V/A - Sweet Emotion/Songs of Aerosmith - CD
(Heavy Hip Mama) I've gotten a few of this type of compilations where blues greats cover rock songs. However, where the other CD's had more of a blues sound to begin with (Eric Clapton, Jimmy Hendrix), this release is by far the best. The artist do a wonderful job of making each song their own. I know that a lot of Aerosmith's tunes are built on a blues foundation, but this CD just emphasizes it to a whole other level. Otis Clay's' version of "Cryin'" is just astounding. Gerald McClendon does an excellent job with the tune "Pink". My favorite has to be Pinetop Perkins, Rusty Zinn and Ronnie Baker Brooks' version of "Walk This Way", which is sung in a tradition blues jam style.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Swing This, Baby! III - CD
(Slimstyle / Beyond / BMG) This is a collection of 15 swing bands that I've never heard of before now. The only one that sounds familiar is Gary Setzer & King Cadillac, and that's due to him being related to Brian Setzer. All thes bands play a traditional version of swing without much to mix it up. While I find this fairly entertaining, I prefer the bands who add a more modern flair to their swing. If you like swing then this a good sampler of some of the better bands out there, pick it up.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - A SXSW Sampler: March 2006 - CD
(12 Apostles Records) I'm a bit disappointed with this electronica compilation, I was expecting so much more. There were a few middle of the road tunes that didn't have me feeling one-way or the other. Others like the final song from Stefen Robinson were an unlistenable mess. Girl Talk's "Cleveland Shake" is cute at first but soon becomes annoying with its repetitiveness and layering of too many samples. While I like other things that Dsico has done, I thought their (his) version of Smells Like Teen Spirit, "Smells Like Electro" is horrible.

There were a few bright notes. Ollo's "Lord Lucan is Still Missing" which is sort of a mixture of Alien Sex Fiend and Chumbawumba with a hilljack british vocals thrown in was enjoyable. But by far the best song on this compilation is "Journey to the Centre of Brixton" by ROC. The song sounds very much like a Tricky, except for a bit more synth and a female doing the "Tricky" vocals styling.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - The T4 Project - CD
(Mental Records) "In Review"
-- (2007)

V/A - The Best of TRL Pop - CD
(UTV Records) At least there is no mistaking what this disk is all about...POP! Actually I like quite a few of these tunes but I see them what they are...dispossible. There will be a new crop soon and these won't even register in the common listeners fickle mind. Since I'm a sucker for pop I like tunes on here such as "Gotta Tell You" / Samantha Mumba, "Faded" / Soul Decision, "Steal My Sunshine" / LEN, "All Star" / Smashmouth and "Back Here" / BBMak amoung others. If you're a sucker for pop then this is the way to go instead of buying their lame CD's...just get a comp...or rip a disk!
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

V/A - Tea for 2000 - CD
(Beggars Banquet) Talk about one great f-n' compilation CD. The folks at Beggars Banquet put together nineteen killer tunes from nineteen killer bands that have a groovin' dance ethereal sound. I've been listening to this release all day and it just keeps getting better with each listen. The Llama Farmers tune "Yellow" just keeps growing on me. Other standouts include Gorky's "Sygotic Mynci's Poodle Rockin'", Brassy's "Can't Wait", and... well all the tunes are just wonderful. Double thumbs up.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - This Changes Everything - CD
(Second Nature Recordings) This is a sampler from the folks at Second Nature Recordings. A little bit of everything here. My favorites were Coalesce's death metal tunage, Grade's metal\Emo waxing and Isis, also death metal or whatever they are calling real heavy shit with Cookie Monster vocals these days. The other stuff on here was too wimpy to mention in print, much less listen to more than once!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - To: Elliot From: Portland - CD
(Expunged Records) This is a tribute to the late Elliot Smith featuring 15 of his songs remade by other Portland bands like The Decemberists, Sean Croghan, Crosstide, Eric Matthews, The Thermals which were my favorites on this disc. Most of the bands are in the realm of Elliott's style and make me think of the movie Singles. Overall the most honest tribute CD I've ever heard and most of the bands really are good and do well at capturing Elliott's songs. If you aren't a fan of his or his style then this won't appeal to you, however if you are a fan you need this!
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

V/A - Too Legit for the Pit: Hardcore Takes the Rap - CD
(Radical Records) Twelve hardcore bands try their hand at rap tunes by such artists as N.W.A., Dr. Dre and Snoop Dog, L.L. Cool J, Digital Underground, etc. I actually liked some of the covers on this release, but the bands that did them seemed more pop-punky than hardcore or the bands that chose to try to keep the sound close to the original song.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Transmission Four - CD
(Space 380 Music) This is the fourth comp released by Space 380 (hence the name of the disc). I think that this is one of the better comps that I've heard. It has a variety of bands, but not to wide of a range that they don't fit together. Most bands would fit on the college radio format and several are from live college radio shows. They were even nice enough to put a style description next to each bands song so I don't have to even try. The biggest surprise I had was seeing a song from My Life with the Thrill Kill Cult, whom I thought broke up years ago. However, they do sound different. Instead of the great industrial sounds from the early 90's you get what is accurately described as groovy electronic rock. But wait that's not all you also get what is described as AAA & Active rock - Chris Connelly who I think sounds like Bowie (Ziggy era). There is also post alternative, alternative AAA, alternative pop rock, rock, atmospheric alternative rock (Motorbaby - who sound a bit like Bjork on a good day), pop rock, Swedish house, trance pop, ambient, ambient turntablism, shoegazer rock and experimental. And I bet you all thought they were just college rock...well it just goes to show how much you have to learn. Nah Nah Nah!
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

V/A - Unsigned EMI Publishing Artists - CD
(EMI Music Publishing) From what I can tell this is a promo CD from EMI consisting of few tunes from artists what they may be interested in, but have yet to sign. So while this release won't be widely available to the public, it's still a good sample of what type of music that EMI is considering the hottest or next hottest commodity.

There seems to be a slew of whiney male singer-songwriter types in the vein of James Blunt on this release with just a little something that sets each one of them apart. Justin Rutledge has a bit of twanginess to his songs, while Fairfield has a whispery singing style. Liar Liar is the standout of this group because their music has a bit of playfulness to it. The same can't be said for City and Colour, which is the least appealing of this grouping.

There are a couple of rock bands represented on this release. I liked Die Mannequin, however they have a generic rock-n-roll girl band sound. I could almost picture them as the rock band playing in the background in a teenage girl exploring her wild side movie. You can tell right away that Slute longs for the days of hair metal. Complete with shredding guitars and vocals that are a cross between early Vince Neil and AC/DC parody, Slute could be America's answer to The Darkness.

The standouts on this release include the band, Miniatures, which have that alternative-pop Fuse band sound that has me thinking The Killers lite. I really enjoyed the songs by Simon Wilcox. The vocals remind of The Sundays, while the music has a peppy Siouxsie and the Banshees air to it.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Van Wilder The Rise Of Taj - CD
(Eleven Seven Records) I have to say that this isn’t the greatest movie soundtrack I’ve heard. It’s also not the worse. It’s more just there. Most of the songs sound like the filler tunes on a band’s CD. There are a few exceptions including the hit “Crazy Bitch” by Buckcherry and “A Kick in the Mouth” by Reuben. Still this is an overall a mediocre release, that makes me not want to see the movie.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

V/A - Vans Warped Tour: 2001 Comp. - CD
(Side One Dummy Records) The Warped Tour has been around for a while, and while it's not to the point of commercialism that Lollapalooza became, it seems to be gaining popularity among the kids who tend to enjoy mainstream music. I have yet to attend Warped, mostly because I always seem to be out of town when the tour comes around. Maybe this will be my year, until then I must depend on the great compilations that come out every year. This one is no exception. 26 tracks from such killer bands as New Found Glory, AFI, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, Flogging Molly, Mighty Might Bosstones, Tsunami Bomb, Deviates.. the list is endless. This CD is a must for any modern day punker.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

V/A - Vans Warped Tour 2002 Compilation - 2CD
(SideOne Dummy Records) Fifty great songs from fifty great bands which are playing this years Warped Tour. If you've ever been to the Warped tour then you know what to expect...otherwise here's a clue: The best punk-pop, ska and hardcore bands around playing for thousands of sweaty kids. Some of the bands that most people have heard of are The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, NoFX, Lagwagon, Sum 41, Alkaline Trio, Murphey's Law and Thursday. There are way too many for me to list...so go to the show and see for yourself. After that buy a copy of this release and relive the great memories punk. Or don't see the show, but buy the CD and feel like a piece of shit since you missed out on such a great time.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)