(hed) Planet Earth - Blackout - CD
(Jive Records)
The first two tracks on this disc are from the upcoming album from (hed)
pe. The opening track, "Suck It Up" had me thinking that Faith No
More was teaming up with Korn. It's actually a kick ass tune.
"Blackout" is just as strong. This release just might be the one that pushes
this band into the spotlight. The rest of the release is more of the same
rap-metal, sing-scream tuneage that I get bored with quickly. They also
decided to have the host seem like he's insanely high as he smokes pot between
introducing each cut. I guess it appeals to the teenagers who think that
getting high shows how cool one is.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
I have a reviewed at least two of their releases in the past and recall
that I liked them. So, it was a surprise when I listened to this disc and
while some of the tracks were decent I didn't have an overall positive feeling
about this one. Maybe I'm just not in the mood for them right now, but something
seems to be lacking from their songs now. I do know that they are more popular
than ever and getting some decent radio airplay now, but it seems like something
dropped off their records. I think it's that they are focusing a bit more
on their metal side instead of the past infusions of rap into their songs.
I recall them as being similar to Zebrahead, but now they are moving
more in the direction of all those faceless nu-metal bands. They still stand
out above that crowd, but it's a crowd I could do without.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)
H2O - It Was a Good Day - 7"
(Side One Dummy)
Two covers of two great songs on cool blue vinyl. I loved hearing the cover
of the Suicidal Tendencies song "I Want More". It's rare that I hear any
7"s that sound as good as this.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Merle Haggard - Ultimate Collection - CD
(Universal Records)
Imaging the looks that I got from my co-workers when I was listening the
The Queers CD at work. Now imagine the looks I got when I put on
the Merle Haggard CD immediately following The Queers. I remember
Merle Haggard from my youth because he was one of the handful of
country musicians that my parents listened to that I could actually stomach.
This release contains a slew of tunes that were hits for ol' Merle. A few
of my faves include "Mama Tried", "Okie From Muskogee", "Pancho & Lefty"
and "If We Make it Through December". My only disappointment is that this
release didn't contain my favorite Merle song, "Colorado Koolaid". I guess
I'll just have to keep listening to my '45 of the song for now.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Beto Hale - American Mythology - CD
(Beto Hale) This is
the type of musician that I would expect to be the opener at a Michael
Bolton concert. Beto Hale is an acoustic-lite, singer-songwriter
that sings in both English and Spanish. His songs are the type that some
deep artsy college guy would sing for a group of girls trying to impress
them with just how emotional he is. That is until Blotto shows up and smashes
the hell out of his guitar.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
The Half Empties - Full Bore - CD
(Out of Step Records P.O. Box 509 Vineburg, CA 95487) Fairly standard punk
rock, but nothing to go nuts over.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)
Halou - Wholeness & Separation - CD
(Nettwerk Records)
Very cool, haunting ethereal songs led along by a sweet, seductive female
voice. Most of their songs take on the electronica flavour of Ilya,
Portishead and Massive Attack, but they are definitely not
a clone band. On my favorite songs "Honeytheif", "Wholeness" and "Stonefruit"
they add in a bit of the Garbage sound. This is one of those releases
I liked on first listen and have found more reason to be interested with
each replay. One of the best releases of 2006.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Halou - Sawtooth - CD
(Nettwerk Records)
Their last release, Wholeness & Separation, was one of my favorites
of 2006, so this had a lot to live up to. This release is quite a bit different
from the feel and presentation of their last release, except for "Hollywood
Ending" with its dreamlike quality and sparse instrumentation except those
lush cello and other strings. Most of these new tracks are a bit more rock
oriented and have a good heavy, dark sound. I think the music and vocals
are now heading more in a Lauren Hoffman direction with a bit of
the edgier Garbage sound, with a touch of Jump, Little Children.
Overall I find Sawtooth as a step forward in Halou's development.
It's still early in the year, but I'm going to guess that this will be one
of the best releases of 2008.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Hamell On Trial - Tough Love - CD
(Righteous Babe Records)
After listening to this release, I came to the realization that Hamell
On Trial is best seen and heard live. I caught him a few years ago and
was blown away by his manical guitar playing, which had worn a gaping hole
in his guitar. It was as is a being from another plane had taken control
of this somewhat geeky singer/songwriter and had given him stage presence
10-times his size. You just don't get the same experience just by listening
to this CD. Believe me, I wanted to like this, but it didn't really do anything
for me.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
The Handcuffs - Model for a Revolution - CD
(OOFL Records)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
Happy Suicide Jim - The Love Kills Theory - CD
(Xemu Records) First off
I love the Kool Aid Cake cover art. This CD starts off with the quirky tune
“Authenticity” which comes across as a wonderfully weird “Ween” sounding
tune. Happy Suicide Jim sticks with the quirky ‘80s approach with
the rest of the tunes on this release. This becomes a bit stale after awhile.
The songs aren’t bad; the problem is that none of them really stand out.
“The Love Kills Theory” is a fun little CD to listen too, but I don’t think
will get multiple plays.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Har Mar Superstar - You Can Feel Me - CD
(Record Collection
Records) A CD full of nothing. Literally, their was nothing on this
CD. Grog said the promo pack was cool though.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
Hard-Fi - Cash Machine - CD
(Necessary Records)
This Clash inspired UK indie band's four track EP contained two songs
that really caught my attention, the very catchy "Cash Machine" and "Tied
Up too Tight" both had good beats that I could really get into. "Sick of
It All" although it did have a good beat, the majority of the lyrics were
garbled.
I do have to give Hard-Fi credit for the last song on the EP, a
cover of The White Stripes "Seven Nation Army," because they did
make it their own, but it was no where near the quality of the original.
They gave it kind of a reggae feel and it just seemed wrong. Overall this
EP was worth the listen.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)
Nick Hardt - Cardiac Arrest - CD
(Nick Hardt) I wish
I could properly convey the "Uh. Uh. Ahhhhhhhhhh." that the back-up rapper
emotes on "Show Boats" the first song of this release by rapper Nick
Hardt. . The song is pretty good, but that little part makes me smile
every time because it's a bit unexpected. Some of the subjects that Nick
takes on include people always trying to project the right image instead
of being themselves, how drugs can eat away your life and other such goodness.
There's a strong message on "That's Life" that unlike many other rap songs
that I've heard, doesn't glorify drugs. Overall this is a pretty good release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Marina Hardy - Pink Violin - CD
(Marina Hardy) What hurts this release of instrumental and experimental
tunes is that it's so schizophrenic. It starts off with "Mkay" which sounds
like it would be the background sound for a creepy video game. This is followed
by "Cowgyspy" which sounds like gypsy music being played on a warped jukebox.
Then there's "Zoom" which is like a demented version of Eddie Van Halen's
"Eruption". "Spanish" is another nice tune of the release as is "Yip Yip",
which is a straight up catchy instrumental piece. "Yowsa" is another nice
tune with a lazy jazz-guitar leading the way. Most of the rest of the songs
are have a light experimental feel to them. So while the songs here are
enjoyable, I think the casual listener will have a hard time getting through
the release. But if you are the type of person who's up for the challenge,
then check this out because it is pretty good.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals - Live From Mars - 2CD
(Virgin Records)
If you are a Ben Harper fan, what are you waiting for? The first
disc is full band and the second is acoustic Ben. If you've been
under a rock and you have no idea who this is-check it out. A mix of rock,
soul and acoustic-great live mixes of some of the bands best as well as
some great covers.
-- Regan (2001)
Kemp Harris - Edenton - CD
(Kemp Music) Well
considering the fact that the suggested track was called "Sweet Weepin'
Jesus", this wasn't as bad as I expected. It's basically a blend of blues
and gospel sung by Kemp Harris who has a great soulful voice just
made for blues. Some of the background vocals were questionable, like someone
testifying at a Baptist mass, but still the songs were decent. Not really
my style but if you love gospel and the blues give Kemp Harris a
try.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Fletcher Harrington - Under the Shadow of San Gabriel - CD
(Lopie Records) At first
glance, I thought Fletcher Harrington was going to be one of those
band names that doubled as a deconstructive statement on identity and genre
etc., but it is actually Fletcher Harrington, formerly of Cowboy
Buddha, putting out a solid alt-country disc (heavy emphasis on the
"ALT"). The song, "Clean Desire" is more like indie rock actually. I think
the genre of ALT- COUNTRY, simply means "good music with classic themes
in the songwriting and structure." Operating within these boundaries, Under
the Shadow of San Gabriel is worth a spin.
-- Sitcom Serf (2008)
Harptallica - A Tribute - CD
(Harptallica) I
actually had high hopes for this one. I mean I've heard music from novelty
acts such as this before and I'm sure just about everybody else has too.
Think about the chorus groups that cover popular songs or the guy who does
video game themes on his guitar that are all over youtube.com, and you will
realize what this CD is all about. The title says it all, Metallica
songs done on the harp (or in this case two harps). So you can see why I
had high hopes for this one. While the music isn't bad, the harp doesn't
seem to be the best instrument to use in a revision of Metallica
tunes. They just end up sounding like harps and I got bored quickly. I think
that if there was a bit more percussion or maybe cello in the mix this would
have turned out better. While the harp is a lovely instrument it just doesn't
have the power to take the lead on these tunes.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Bill Hart - Subject to Change - CD
(Bill Hart)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
Billy Harvey - Bearsick - CD
(Gold Records
Inc.) In music there's a thing people sometimes do on songs called "tuning
down". Usually it's a half or whole note, this is done to either put the
song into a minor key or accommodate a singer's voice. Sometimes it's done
just on the bass so that they can get an extra low note. It usually sounds
good when the song calls for it. Now image a whole album of songs, which
are all "tuned down" a whole note. That is what this sounds like. Not just
the guitar and bass, but the vocals as well. It has a slow lo-fi quality
to it already and with the tuning down it adds a minor key and dream like
quality to everything. On some songs it's not bad, but after a whole album
it's like listening to the Melvins doing an acoustic set. (Note for
the youngsters: The Melvins were a cool heavy grunge band that played
slow plodding metalish songs.) Anyway, Billy Harvey is decent, but
after a few songs it feels like I need some pep pills and a good run to
get away from this downer.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Haste - When Reason Sleeps - CD
(Century Media Records)
Haste, a six piece band featuring two vocalists, is back with their
second disc of shiny metal. Alabama natives, Haste waste no time
is getting down to business. Battling vocalists mix high end and low end
hardcore yelling that is sure to put listeners in a bad mood in no time
at all. Overall a rather forgettable CD that wont stay in my CD player for
too long.
-- Johnny Death (2001)
Haste - The Mercury Lift - CD
(Century Media Records)
Too bad this band wants to be one of those "scream one instant and sing
the other" bands that seem to be everywhere now, because they seem like
they do have great talent. I would even go as far as to say that if they
were around five years ago, they would be one of the big bands of today.
However, their musical style is on the downslide and they will only have
a couple of more years until people have had enough of the same old thing
and have moved on.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Haven - Between the Senses - CD
(Virgin Records)
These guys kind of surprised me because when I looked at the cover I thought
were going to be another in a long line of lame metal fusion acts. However,
they are more of a standard rock band fairly closeto Soul Asylum,
but not quite as interesting, but still very good. Nothing too flashy, just
flowing music and heartfelt vocals. This was a nice surprise, the only problem
being that they never get beyond mellow.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Ashbrook Haynes - One Long Chase - CD
(Ashbrook Haynes)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
HB3 - Luminosity - CD
(HB3) This CD is interesting,
but it failed to hold my interest. Let me see if I can explain it. The band
works hard at presenting music in an interesting way. The first few tunes
have a churning distortion driving them forward. However, they seem to use
a bit too much distortion. The production quality is a bit lacking as well,
which hurts the compositions. The vocals are also lacking. However, I do
admire that HB3 is trying something different, however just because
it is different, doesn't mean it's good.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Heartbreak Club - Lamecore - CD
(Heartbreak Club)
Decent pop punk / indie rock that is like a blend of The New Pornographers
and The Queers, with the pure geekiness of Weezer. This disc
is only five tracks, which run out way too fast. The songs are tales of
geek love and heartbreak done with great tongue in cheek humor and personal
clips. I really like this band and find myself going back to their release
again and again.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Heath Street - Heath Street - CD
(Heath Street)
The singer sounds like a very mellow version of Ben Folds mixed with
Randy Neuman, which has its good and bad points. The first two tracks
really started to get on my nerves with the very literal lyrics ala Randy
Neuman as parodied on the Family Guy. The third song "Falling
Softly" was much better and while it was a bit too similar to Ben Folds,
it still had its own unique appeal. Overall this folk / light rock band
has its charm and can compose a good tune with some memorable hooks.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Heavy D & the Boyz - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal
Chronicles) Heavy D came into vogue during the era of party good
time rap. This was the era where rappers used groovin' beats and samples
to support their self-subject words. I like the fact that Heavy D's
music is about fun, and that he never resorted to the "bitches and ho's"
mentality. While I couldn't really get into the CD overall, I would say
that someone who is a rabid fan of the old school rap style would probably
dig this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
The Hedrons - One More Won't Kill Us - CD
(Measured Records)
This female group reminds me of a more rock-n-roll orientated Shira Girl
with vocals being a cross between Shira Girl and Shesus. The
music is guitar and drum driven with just the right amount of pop-alternative
catchiness. While there are quite a few gems on this release like "Heatseeker"
and "Couldn't Leave Her Alone" I felt that all the elements came together
perfectly on the tune "One More Won't Kill Me". So if you listen to one
song on this release this will be it. It's guaranteed to make you want to
hear more.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Steve Hefter & Friends And Friends of Friends - A Six Song Demonstration
- CD
(SHAFAFOF)
This band has the charm of Baby Calendar, the whimsical
nature of Wally Pleasant and yet makes me think of earlier
Todd Snider. The disc starts with the wonderfully titled
"Ludicrous Bubblegum Flavors" and moves onward through five more
tunes, heading ever further into Todd Snider territory.
The music is light and fun mixing vocals, acoustic guitar, light drums,
bass, keyboards, harmonica and occasionally a fiddle. Great demonstration...now
lets hear the riot!
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Steve Hefter and Friends of Friends - Twist and Hold Til Morning - CD
(Steve
Hefter) Last year we got acquainted with Steve Hefter and his
friends, while was more than worth the time. On this new release they have
really become a band and have moved forward both in songwriting and in playing
ability. The music stands on it's own and really no longer needs comparisons,
since none really seem to fit. They have the same whimsical nature, which
works great for most songs like on "Why a Lawyer" where Steve talks
about his mom dating someone new "But why a lawyer, oh dear god why a lawyer.
Couldn't he have been an engineer?" The music is fun too with bits of keyboards
at just the right points. Most of the songs are fairly laid back, but full
of passion and life. I'm very happy to see the progression and growth on
this release as they were one of my favorite bands last year.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Tom Heinl - With Or Without Me - CD
(Leisure King Records)
The CD cover of this release depicts a lost, hung-over lounge lizard wearing
brown slacks, a paisley shirt, and no shoes wandering around a meadow while
singing into his karaoke machine with a 70's retro layout and lettering
style. The songs contained within are a hysterical example of a great sense
of humor.
Tom Heinl sings the woes of a man that finds it better NOT to get
what you wish for in "Three-way": "Do you even need me here for your three-way?"
There's also an ode to long stretches of highway without rest stops on "Peein'
in an Empty". The unique feature on this disc is that the first half is
called "With Me" as Tom sings the songs in his vocal range of rich baritone
and deep bass but the second half of the disc, called "Without Me", consists
of the same ten songs without vocals. Tom Heinl calls this "stereoke".
Thirty years ago Tom Heinl would have been an up and coming "star"
in the same class as Mac Davis, Ray Stevens, and Jim Stafford.
But here, with the honky-tonk piano, steel guitars and goofy lyrics Tom
Heinl's With or Without Me is a two stepping, floor stomping,
knee slapping good time (even if he does talk a little TOO much about throwing
up). Check it out and laugh it up, that's what it's for.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)
The Heise Bros. - The Continuing Saga Of... - CD
(The Heise Bros)
This isn’t a bad effort especially for a band that does its own production
and Engineering. Still, it’s overall not too memorable. The overall sound
quality is flat, the tunes are a bit sing-songy and the vocals have the
sameness on all the songs. Still I hear a spark of potential in the music
especially in the flicker of the guitar riffs on a few of the songs. I think
The Heise Bros. need to flesh out their sound more and get more aggressive
in their song writing and maybe the next effort will be a bit more memorable.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Glen Helgeson - Distant Borders Revisited - CD
(World View Music)
This release is billed as contemporary world-beat jazz. Which may sound
really lame, but isn't. Glen Helgeson is a fine jazz guitarist who
backs up his playing with an infusion of world beat. Most of it hinges on
Latin rhythms, but there are forays into African tribal, Caribbean and even
a bit of Middle Eastern sounds. Sometimes the contemporary jazz overtones
make this release a bit weak for my tastes, but it does make an excellent
background disc. If you are into light jazz then this will make for a nice
change from what you're used to hearing. If you don't like contemporary
jazz, you might want to give this a listen since the world beat blend really
does change up the sound and make it into something more interesting.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Herd of Mers - Aurora Caught Napping - CD
(It's Twilight Time)
I enjoyed the minimalism of the music and vocals at the beginning of this
release. The elements all fit together perfectly with the lyrics. However,
the sameness of the songs got to me after awhile. They pick things up a
bit near the end of the CD on the tune "Keep", but the lumbering vocals
come back for the last tune. I really want to like this CD, but it just
makes me want to take a nap.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Jefferson Hendricks - I Got Questions - CD
(Gotcha Records)
Fairly standard bluesy rock served up by a band that I'm sure can get a
club moving. I don't find anything all that original in their songs, but
they are catchy and I'm sure they can get a crowd on their feet and dancing
in any club where the liquor is flowing. While I'm sure they are great to
see live, they don't do much to inspire me on this disc.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Jimi Hendrix - Blue Wild Angel - CD
(Universal
/ A&M Records) I used to love Hendrix when I was a teenager.
To me he was one of the greatest musicians in the world and I thought he
was one who could never be topped. Of course I also used to smoke a lot
of weed back then too. I still have all my Hendrix vinyl, but haven't
listened to it in years. So I was really looking forward to hearing this
release and hearing this great concert which was one of his last in September
of 1970. Well, instead of a nostalgic look back I grew very annoyed fairly
quickly. There's just something that doesn't appeal to me about Hendrix
anymore. Sure he's a great guitarist and his band was equally talented,
but now it just seems too old for me and too hippy. He was great for his
time and for people just exploring all the music that is out there, but
now he just seems like some old time drug addled hippy. Maybe the DVD holds
more promise when he is shown instead of just heard...but that's Mite's
review
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Live at Monterey - CD
(Universal Music
Company) This is Hendrix's famous live performance at Monterey
in 1967 where he set his guitar a flame. I was a huge fan of Jimi's
when I was a young teen and had about 20 albums. Later I grew bored of "old"
music and moved onward, yet never gave up my vinyl collection. This release
of Jimi's live performance at Monterey shows why he is considered
one of the best guitarists ever and is still admired and revered by so many.
The songs have a basic core, but Jimi's sonic playing experimentation is
really held together by the excellent rhythm section of Noel Redding
and Mitch Mitchell. Of the nine songs included, five are covers but
you would never notice since Jimi has changed them so fundemantally
they are truely new songs. One addition that I really liked about this release
was the booklet which was dedicated to press releases about the festival
and a complete list of the musicians and their support crew.
If you want to get one live Jimi Hendrix album then this is the
one to get. I've listened to / owned about ten and this is easily the most
solid and interesting.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Henry - Sounds Like Henry - CD
(Reticulated Records)
Stretch..... Yawwwwwwnnnnnnnnnnnnnn. Hmh hmh hmh. Snort, wha?.... Oh yeah.
Sounds boring.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
The Ken Hensley Story - Blood On The Highway - CD
(Universal Switzerland)
This CD tells of the rise and fall of a rocker. The songs have the late
'70s early '80s arena rock sound ala Bruce Springstein or Bob
Seger. Where they are lacking is that the tunes mostly sound the same
throughout the release and have a show tune feel about them. I was thinking
throughout this release that Bad Company already took on the subject
perfectly with the tune, "Shooting Star".
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Priscilla Hernández - Ancient Shadows: The Ghost And The Fairy - CD
(Yidneth) Hailing from
Barcelona, Spain, one should think that Priscilla Hernández would
deliver some latino based music on her album "Ancient Shadow", but then
again, the album-title doesn't sound like the next big latino-thing. Instead
"Ancient Shadows" is all about new age, ambience and a gothic atmosphere.
Priscilla's vocals are very good and so are the songwriting and production.
In the long run, however, one tends to get a little bored listening to music
like this for a whole album in one sitting. But then again it all comes
down to what kind of music you like, doesn't it?
-- Hans Mutant (2007)
Collin Herring - Past Life Crashing - CD
(Collin Herring) Collin Herring's sound is what I would call melodic
acoustical alternative folk. He starts off with a strong singer-songwriter
style that reminded me of Mark Messerly of the Cincinnati duo Messerly
& Ewing with a vocal style that has a hint of Michael Stipe at
times. This is very much the case on the tunes "Beside" and "One Last Morning".
I also hear a bit of light sounding Replacements on the tune "Pictures".
The CD ends with the atmospheric piece "Dishes" which is different than
anything else on the release, but still very nice. I like this.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Monika Herzig Acoustic Project - What Have You Gone And Done? - CD
(Acme Records)
The cover photo of this release screams early ‘70s Lawrence Welk.
When I started listening to the CD I have to say that sometimes you can
tell a book by its cover. Composed of muzak jazz infused covers of songs
like John Lennon’s “Imagine”, “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue” by Bob
Dylan and Cole Porters “Night and Day”, this release is nothing
more than lite slurry.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
The Hi-Frequencies - The Hi-Frequences - CD
(Teen Regime Records)
This was a very surprising CD. It was like stepping back in time about forty
years or so to the days of Buddy Holly. In fact they cover one song
of his "Peggy Sue Got Married". The other thirteen tunes are along the same
lines of early rock with some infusions of surf ala Dick Dale. But
to call them a throwback band would be a disservice, they add something
to this style and while it feels like the old time sound it has a new spark
to it.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
High or Hellwater - The Good Lie EP - CD
(High or Hellwater)
This is a quick three song pre-release from their upcoming release Living
the Good Lie. The first song reminds me of Dan Bern even though High
or Hellwater are clearly an alt-country act. From the sampling I've
heard I'd rate these guys along with Todd Snyder and The Bottlerockets
as far as style and songwriting ability are concernded. I can't wait to
get the full length so I can enjoy more of their smooth sound.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)
The High Water Marks - Polar - CD
(HHBTM Records) Whether
you call them pop-core, cuddle-core or just great indie rock almost every
release on Happy Happy Birthday to Me is of this genre and I love
it! The High Water Marks are no exception and rank right up there
with Baby Calendar in my humble opinion. They feature Hilarie Sidney
(ex-Apples in Stereo) singing and playing guitar, drums, keyboards
and xylophone (not all at the same time though), plus three other blokes
(not that they're any less important). The music is raw and energetic and
at the same time peppy and full of fun. One of the things I love is Hilarie's
voice which has a sweet sing-songy style, but full of power. All of the
instruments blend in nicely and the xylophone is just a great extra touch.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Hill, Michael Blues Mob - Electric Storyland - CD
(Ruf Records)
(2003)
Hills Rolling - Sweet Tea - CD
(Hills Rolling)
Hills Rolling is the one-man band of Trey McGriff who does
all of the duties on this release and you can tell. It's great that he has
the talent to be able to play a variety of instruments, but the songs sound
as if he has been living in a bubble. The beats are basic along with the
rest of the instruments and the vocals are weak. The lyrics aren't so great
either. Still, Trey has great potential, I just think he needs to
work with other musicians and expand his exposure to other songwriters.
The songs on this release come off as amateur singer-songwriter tunes being
played by an amateur band.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Hillstomp - The Woman That Ended The World - CD
(Hillstomp) The singer
of this alternative country duo sounds like he's singing through a broken
microphone, couple that with songs containing only two riffs and you get
this: a very boring and monotonous CD. These guys threaten to rock out and
almost give us something to sing along to but they never deliver. I do have
to give them credit for one thing and that's the guitars. Clear as crystal
but not enough to shell out any cash.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)
Hillstomp - After Two But Before Five - CD
(Fuzzmonster Records)
This CD captures the hill-stompin' ehhhh...Hillstomp as they perform
live. The production is a bit sketchy, but what can one expect when recording
live. While I feel that this release doesn't fully capture the power of
a real live Hillstomp performance, it does a pretty good job of giving
the listener a decent feel, especially on the more hoppin' tunes like "Landlord
Blues." While it really isn't that bad, I would rather see them live or
listen to their studio release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Paris Hilton - Paris - CD
(Warner Brothers
Records) Yes, I'm actually reviewing the Paris disc. Why? Because
I think every release deserves a fair chance. Thanks to Paris being
such an attention whore I don't think there's anybody in the US that hasn't
heard of her and have some opinion of her. But this review is really about
the music not the marketing.
I was actually surprised when I heard the disc, I was ready for it to be
horrible, but it was actually decent dance club pop. I can't say much about
her lyrics or whispered talk singing (attempt at sounding sultry?), but
it is better than I feared. This really is decent dance club music, nothing
exciting, but nothing vomit inducing either.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Pamela Hines Trio - Return - CD
(Spice Rack Records)
While I'm not a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Jazz, what I do know
is that it's not supposed to annoy the listener. I was a bit annoyed with
the drum solo early on in the mix, but when the weak bass solo (which can
only be compared to a limp hand shake ) on the third tune "Return" kicked
in it was too much.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
The Hipperoos - Cornered & The Extemporaneous Hipperoos Live! - CD
(The Hipperoos)
The Hipperoos are an instrumental jam band with focus on the guitar.
Their studio release, Cornered, left something to be desired. The music
sounded like it was done for some cheap 'how to' video. The live CD , The
Extemporaneous Hipperoos, has a little more bite to it, but compared to
one of Dayton's great instrumental bands, The Mulchmen, this release
just falls flat as well. Would be a good house band for the 'how to' video
stage show.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Hiretsukan - Invasive // Exotic - CD
(G-7 Welcoming
Committee Records) There's something about not understanding the words
that just makes a band automatically suck. The music was good but the vocals
were terrible and the lyrics, well, I can't say much about that because
I couldn't tell if they sucked because of the grunting of the vocalist.
You know it is bad when the cat gets annoyed every time they start "singing".
Every time the voice started my cats' ears would twitch in annoyance. Note
to band: When you put your band name on the cover you might want to make
it legible so that people could actually know who you are, that is if they
would want to.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)
The Hit & Mrs. - Buried in the Backyard of My Heart - CD
(The Hit & Mrs)
I love this kind of band where their sound has a roughness to it, almost
like good late '70s punk. Another one of my favorite bands that I would
liken Hit & Mrs. to is The Hives. All the songs have a beat
that just drags you into each song and makes you start bomping along.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
The Hives - Veni Vidi Vicious - CD
(Burning Heart Records)
Garage crazed Swedes, shit are there any non-garage crazed Swedes?!! More
Nomads than Hellacopters This stuff reminds me of something that
could have come out on Estrus. Just your basic garage rocking thing
going on here nothing new really but pretty good nonetheless.
-- Howard X (2001)
Lauren Hoffman - Choreography - CD
(Fargo Records)
Ahhh. Lauren is back once again. I've been enchanted with her music
since I heard her first release, Megiddo, back in 97. I find myself
liking every musical project Lauren is involved in and this latest
release is no exception. There's quite a bit more piano on this than her
earlier releases and it really suits her style on the mellower songs, which
is a majority. My favorite tunes however are where she breaks out the guitar
and puts a little more force into the vocals like on "White Sheets" and
especially "Solipsist". However, I think my favorite is the haunting "Out
of the Sky, Into the Sea" which makes me think of World Inferno Friendship
Society and Tarot Bolero with its roaring '20s style and subdued
tango beat. If you like female singer songwriters with a lot to say, great
musicianship and a very unique sound then be prepared to be entranced by
Lauren Hoffman.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Hoke World Entertainment - Presents - CD
(Hoke World Entertainment)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
Lily Holbrook - Everything Was Beautiful And Nothing Hurt - CD
(Lily Holbrook)
Lily Holbrook has the voice of Tori Amos with a mixture of
Jewel and Fiona Apple instrumentation. Lily traipses
through this collection of tunes with style, grace and a self-assured edge.
The lyrics are personal and meaningful, but at times a bit unfocused and
trite. Lily has the talent, style, sound and looks to make it on
the scale Jewel or Tori at their height.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Billie Holiday - The Best of Billie Holiday - CD
(Hip-O / Universal Records)
Oh yeah. Now I know that most of you have only heard of Billie Holiday
due to Clueless (at least if you're a geek who recalls useless info
like me), but she is the queen of the blues or jazz if you are a purist.
In my mind it is jazz music with an excellent blues singer fronting the
band. There are twelve songs on this disc spanning from 1932's "Strange
Fruit" to her last hit "God Bless the Child" in 1956 the year of her death
at age 44. She sings tales of falling for the wrong men, but not caring
and doing whatever she wants regardless of what other people say. She was
a true rebel of the time, and like most rebels she died before her time.
Luckily we have her recordings and if you want a good taste of some great
blues / jazz, then take a taste of Ms. Holiday.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Holly Dolly - Pretty Donkey Girl - CD
(Capitol Records)
Hmmmm. I really have a hard time believing that this is on a major label,
but they need tax write offs too. What you have here is the story(?) Of
Holly Dolly the Pretty Donkey Girl. She sings (or scats) some well
known songs in a voice that seems to be somewhere between Shirley Temple
and a pop princess on helium. Sure it's a bit funny on the first track,
but when you get to her version of "Lollipop" it gets a bit old and annoying.
She is backed up primarily by some basic electronica and not much else.
It might be good to put on at a fun party, but it really isn't something
you can truly listen to.
Quick Addition: After some research I found out that Holly Dolly
is an animated character from an Italian children's show. This explains
a lot, however it still doesn't make it good.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Hollywood & Vine - One Way Ticket - CD
(Hollywood
& Vine) "In Review"
-- (2008)
Holy Mountain Music - Songs From Sunday Morning - CD
(Holy Mountain Music) This is a CD of Christian religious songs such as
"Amazing Grace," "Holy Holy Holy," "Swing Low Sweet Chariot," etc. done
as lite-jazz instrumentals. This is not really my thing and the introduction
near the start was a big turn off as well. But if you are religious and
into lite-jazz then you will probably like this.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Home Town Hero - Home Town Hero - CD
(Maverick Records)
I didn't care much for the first track which was pretty much standard rock
tripe. However, the second track "Questions" blew me away with the first
listen. It was a great melodic wall of sound that just drew me in and made
me want to hear it again immediately. Unfortunately most of the following
tracks fell back into the same boring pattern as the first song. There were
a few other bright spots such as "Everything Out of Water" with its lazily
haunting lyrics and guitar. But overall I think that Home Town Hero
needs to write more songs and only pick the best for their next release.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Ellen Honert - Breath Of The Soul - CD
(Mill Station Records)
Ellen has a nice strong voice and you can tell that she loves to
sing. Her preferred style is jazz and while she has a nice classic sound
and good projection she tends to lean on some singing clichés that are beyond
her training. The songs themselves have a great classic jazz feel, but at
times Ellen tries to push things beyond her ability and comes off
sounding weak. None of the songs really captured me, partially due to this
not being one of my favorite genres however the musicianship was excellent.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Hoover's G-String - Gargle - CD
(Red Tide Records) This band plays alternative music that has a twangy feel
about it, or I guess I could say this band plays twangy music with an alternative
feel about it. The only music reference I could give it is that is sounds
like a band I saw a few years ago called The Gear Daddies.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Hopeless Dregs of Humanity - Revolutionary Rock Apocalypse - CD
(Ever Reviled
Records) This is one of those releases where you can't really review
the music because it is secondary to the lyrics. I mean the music is decent
punk rock but their main thrust is revolution and how corporate capitalism
is ruining the world and exploiting the masses. The lyrics and fairly clever,
but overall I find them to be preaching to the choir and pointing out problems
but not offering any rational solutions. This is the problem that I've encountered
with most anti-capitalistic theories. Sure it sounds great for people not
to be exploited and equal, but human nature isn't that way (at least here
in America) and other systems have many holes too. Since I am someone with
a strong work ethic and a desire for fairness I do have faith in our current
system despite its obvious flaws. I see nothing wrong with changing and
challenging the system, but I don't think that anything calls for a wholesale
replacement. [Grog steps down off his soapbox and gets back to work
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Dr. James Hopkins - Pythagorean Harmonic Healing 1 Golden Ratios - CD
(Dr. James Hopkins)
While I'm not really a math geek, I have always been interested in the idea
of the golden ratio and how it keeps popping up again and again. I have
also been aware of how things like sound and vibrations affect the human
body. So this CD by Dr. James Hopkins is fascinating to me in that
context. This really isn't a listening to CD ("Hey man, listen to that droning
sound, I believe this is going to be the next Nirvana"), It's more
of a meditating CD and a study in harmonics, music and math and how they
all relate. What's also interesting is that the instrument played on this
CD is really one of a kind, and the 117 strings are tuned to only two notes
(D & A). The idea of the instrument is that a person lies on top of it while
it's being played from below, therefore bathing the person in harmonics
that help induce healing. While I'm not going to get into the new age one-with-nature
gooiness that one associates with such thinking, I will say that the CD
is relaxing and is perfect for mediation and the thinking behind the instrument
is fascinating.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Tanner Horn - & The Astronauts Before Breakfast - CD
(Tanner Horn) The
first thing I noticed was the cover of this CD which shows a very attractive
girl dressed in police uniform top, showing her cleavage and wearing short
white shorts. On the back cover she is leaning over while getting "spanked"
by a guy dressed like jesus as two other guys look on and another one mugs
for the camera. The guy mugging is Tanner Horn and the girl does
some backup vocals.
Anyway I envision the history of this band in my head this way: Charismatic
guitar playing guy and his hot girlfriend decide to start a band. He convinces
some of his friends to stand a band with him. They all assume different
personas and dress their parts. Once they have their act and backstory together
they decide to find out if anybody really knows how to play music. Through
luck they all have a basic understanding of the rock band structure and
they set out to play gigs. To get gigs the charismatic singer and his hot
girlfriend talk clubs into letting them play and due to those two points
people actually come to see them. They have some success and decide to release
a CD. On the release listeners can't see the band so they are treated to
weak songs that seem like an odd inside joke. The basic elements are there,
but nothing gels. Without eye candy and stage charisma we are left to wonder
why was the disc ever made.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Hot Water Music - Never Ender - 2CD
(No Idea Records)
This is a double-CD release, with one of the CD's being demo's. This CD
is worth getting just for the CD cover and booklet since it's a work of
art unto itself. The music is a harder pop punk. The vocals are harsh and
strained, like the vocalist not only smokes a few packs a day, but devours
the butts off the cigarettes as well. Some might think that would harm the
overall sound of a band, but for this group it fits in beautifully.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Hotpants Romance - It's a Heatwave - CD
(HHBTM Records) "In
Review"
-- (2008)
Hotwire - Hotwire - CD
(RCA Records / BMG) They
can play instruments and they can sing, unfortunately not that well. Everything
sounded the same. The lyrics made no sense, There didn't even seem to be
some weird sort of underlying meaning. So maybe a little more practice and
a new lyrics and they might be on their way.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)
Hour of the Shipwreck - The Hour is Upon Us - CD
(Shipwreck &
Co.) "In Review"
-- (2008)
Greg Howard Band - Lift - CD
(Greg Howard) Best
described as easy listening new age instrumental, this CD is perfect for
those who are into Kenny G.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Howlin' Wolf - Best of Howlin' Wolf - CD
(Universal
Records) It may be bold for me to say, but you haven't heard the blues
until you've heard Howlin' Wolf. The intensity in which he plays
and sings tells of a man who has truly earned the right to sing the blues.
While listening to the tune "The Natchez Burnin'", I could hear strains
of Tom Waits, which came through more the deeper I got into the cuts.
There's even hints of Nick Cave on his more bluesier tunes. I'm almost
sure that Howlin' Wolf had to be a big influence on their music.
It's safe to say that this is one of the best blues CDs that the fine folks
at Universal Music have put out to date.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Glenn Hughes - Return Of Crystal Karma - CD
(Steamhammer) I was mildly
optimistic about this one as I knew that this Hughes character had
once sung for one of the way later versions of Black Sabbath but
this, as it turned out, is one of those records that make it easy for people
to make fun of metal. Hell, I was laughing at this one myself! I cant imagine
any self respecting Mutant Renegade reader being into this buttrockin'
wankmetal, but if you are then this disc even comes with a Glenn Hughes
live in South America bonus CD. I shudder to think what horrors await me
there! (Note from Grog: Glenn Hughes was also in an incarnation of
Deep Purple)
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Human Drama - Solemn Sun Setting - CD
(Hollows Hill
Sound Recordings) Human Drama's sound would be comparable to
what you would get if you combined David Bowie, Julian Cope
and Peter Murphy and told them to be mellow. The band has a sound
that feels almost wicked in its delivery. An overall great CD that feels
Goth while not really being Goth. Thumbs up.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Humble B - Imytl - CD
(Humble B) Their first
song sounds like Pat Boone was cloned, sent to 2005 and then the
many Pats tried to really rock out. I don't know if I should laugh or feel
sorry for them. The other songs go a lot better for them with a good clean
indie rock sound and a touch of southern rock. The lyrics aren't anything
to get excited about, but they are at least decent. Nothing really stands
out but they do have some potential, if they'd just kill off that first
song.
-- Maximillion Twist (2006)
Engelbert Humperdinck - Songs from the Heart - CD
(MCI) Basically a lounge
act that your grandparents may like. On this disk Mr. Humperdinck
manages to mangle "Love the One You're With", "My Cherie Amour" and more.
The best thing about this release is that I get to say the name Engelbert
Humperdinck when people asked me what I was listening to.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Chris Humphrey - Nothing But Blue Sky - CD
(Cadence Jazz Records)
This release is a good example of how a band can have a great CD, but just
one little thing can make it difficult for you to actually get your music
to the listeners. While this jazz CD might not be great, it is pretty good.
The musicians play a nice mellow jazz and the vocals have a crooner quality
to them. I also stated on a review of another artists jazz album of how
much the drum solo annoyed me. This was mostly due to it just being thrown
into the middle of the song where it didn't fit. On this CD Chris Humphrey
and his band get the solo's right. The drumming on Thelonious Monk's
"(The Date is) Friday the 13th" has the right amount of subtleness where
it doesn't overwhelm the composition, it just fits right in.
Now the one thing that is going to make people not want to get this CD,
the lame-ass cd cover. It's just like the title says, nothing but blue sky.
and clouds. I know they say don't judge a book by it's cover, but you have
to. And this cover says bad homemade religious album. I would suggest re-doing
the cover so people will know it's a cool jazz album and that's my final
word.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Hunter, James - Kick It Around - CD
(Ruf Records) James
Hunter has a sound that's reminiscent of the 60's blues type sound.
Listening to this release reminds me of the better albums that my parents
had. Mr. Hunter's voice is smooth and the songs are so well written
that they almost seem like they are a compilation of hits from the masters
of the era that has such a strong influence on his music.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)
Hunting The Rabbit - This Just In - CD
(Capitol Records)
These guys have a basic alternative rock sound with a touch of southern
blues thrown in for good measure. The singer does a great job creating a
mood with his voice and the rest of the band complements the feel. Hunting
the Rabbit is one of those bands that doesn't fit into the standard
song structure and the bassist works out some nice melodic basslines while
still holding down the bottom. The songs are bit raw and the musicianship
is less than perfect, but they have a lot of potential. With time and experience
Hunting the Rabbit could become a band on par with Cracker,
Chamerlain or Matchbox 20, depending on how they progress.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Hunting the Rabbit - Push it Brother - CD
(Fuzzy
Funny Bunny Music) Hunting the Rabbit has a very catchy, hard
indie rock sound that has touches of southern rock, funk and folk blended
into the mix. I catch bits of great 90s influences like Concrete Blonde
and Toad the Wet Sprocket running throughout the songs. The only
thing I really didn’t like about this band was on a few songs like “Natures
Way” they went into a way too repetitive refrain at the end. I can’t wait
to hear something a bit more than this four song sampler from this solid
rock band. (Evidently I did last year, I just noticed the review that I
did of their full length on Capitol Records. Given these two releases I
have to wonder why I haven't heard more about these guys. They get my seal
of approval!)
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Hurt - Vol II - CD
(Capitol Records)
-- (2007)