RSi - RSi - CD
(Bruised Fruit Promotions)
-- (2007)
Michaela Rabitsch & Robert Pawlik Quartet - Moods - CD
(Extraplatte) Michaela
and Robert are a couple who have been playing together for over
a decade and present all original compositions on this disc. They use a
standard jazz quartet format with Michaela on vocals and trumpet.
Overall the songs have a very Esquivel vibe to them and radiate from
that early 60's cool jazz realm.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Radium 88 - Metamorphosis - CD
(Radium 88) Radium
88 are a better than average electronica band. I tend to like the odd
numbered songs better than the even numbered songs, primarily due to the
absense of vocals, which is the weak point of this band. The second track
"Metamorphosis" is a good track though, which sounds quite a bit like Space
with Chumbawumba style background vocals. They have a few interesting
track titles such as: "Exile from Planet Eight" and "Happiness is My Default
Position". Overall they are a bit laid back, but great background for the
right party or even a rave (if people still have those anymore).
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Radium 88 - Only Sciene Can Tell Us The Truth - CD
(Radium 88) I used
to host a new age/electronica/experimental music program in the mid ‘90s,
and if I had this fine release from Radium 88 back then I would have
played it from beginning to end. What sets this release apart from other
electronica releases is that the band doesn’t just exist in the pure synth
instrumental realm. Radium 88 incorporate other elements such as
organic piano, drum kit breakdowns, and female voice. Two of the tunes with
the angelic female vocals, “Sleepwalk” and “The Man Who Invented Himself”
just also happen to be my favorites on this disc.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Rahway - Snitches Get Stitches - CD
(Dead Eye Records)
Dis' CD has da' most awesomess back cover ever. Two chicks in Catholic school
girl uniforms makin' out in da' bathroom while another chick looks on wishin'
da' 'Teve was there with dem. Da' band is okay. Dey seem to think dat dey
are still in da' '80s hair metal days, which da' 'Teve is cool with. Da
band also has lyrics dat are kinda weak, and dey ain't never gonna get da
chicks with lyrics dat have da words sticky, hairy and balls in them like
on da tune "Coke Whore." Even da' 'Teve know that the only thing you gonna
get with chicks who like dat talk is a disease like crabs. Still, da 'Teve
likes the rockin' sound and attitude on most of the CD. Rock'n'Roll.
-- 'Teve (2008)
Raja - The Lavish Collection - CD
(Raja) This
is a disc of smooth R&B with a bit of rap, but I couldn't get the vision
of this being "Micheal Bolton from Office Space" trying to sound tough.
When Raja raps it flows nicely, but when he sings it just falls flat.
I like the beats in most of the tunes and the mixes are fine, but the vocals
just really get on my nerves. It just seems so much like a geek trying to
be a bad boy and not quite getting it. In his liner notes he says "Either
you get it, or you don't." I guess I just don't get it...
-- Maximillion Twist (2006)
Connor Rand & The Red Dirt Band - Connor Rand & The Red Dirt
Band - CD
(Connor Rand) A
bit of 50's rock, a bit of 70's blues rock and some country tinges are what
you will find on this smooth silver disc. Not one my favorite styles, but
this is very good for what it is: great vocals, good lyrics and a band that
can play and groove together. If you are into your rock being a bit blues
fried with a southern style, than you'll love Connor Rand & the Red Dirt
Band.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Random Touch - Alchemy - CD
(Token Boy Records)
This release contains two discs. One is a CD, while the other is a DVD.
While the CD isn’t bad, the DVD just sucks. It looks like someone got a
new video camera and is just messing around with the effects over top of
a new age/experimental music background. The visuals are mind-numbingly
boring. I think you could only enjoy it if you were an old hippy whose mind
was eaten away by years of bad acid.
The music CD isn’t as bad. The disc if filled with the same type of free
form new age/experimental music that’s on the DVD but somehow is easier
to enjoy without the visuals. Not something I would listen to on a regular
basis, but might enjoy as relaxing background music while I cleaned the
house.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Randy - Cheater - CD
(G-7 Welcoming
Committee) Damn these guys sound different from how I recall their
last disc. I could have sworn that they were a fun bouncy punk-pop band
in the vein of Sicko or J-Church. Now they have a very rough
sound similar to the Ramones. Not that there's anything wrong with
that...it was just a shock. Anyway, the first three songs are unreleased,
while the other three are from past releases. Regardless these guys have
that standard Ramonish sound, but many others do it better such as
The Migrains and The Queers.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Readymade - This View Should Never Change - CD
(Monumental Records)
I first heard this band when they played a Mutant Renegade Zine benefit
concert a few years back. They only played four songs then, but that was
enough to catch my interest. Recently I got the change to see them again
in Kentucky and was impressed in how much they've grown as a band. With
six members playing everything from the traditional alternative band instruments
to the French Horn, saw and bow, talking drum and then some, I knew right
away this was a band whose sum was greater than the parts.
The various instruments used by the band help to give the songs a smooth
eclectical feel. The music blends well with the lead singer's Dave Matthews/Peter
Gabriel sounding vocals. And while I like backing music for the beginning
of the tune "Watching", the sound bites and the songs redundancy
got on my nerves very quickly. Too bad, because it makes me not want to
stay around for the second half of the song. The rest of the CD is strong
and shows that this band is truly an original.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)
Rebel Pride - It Is What It Is - CD
(Rebel Pride) The
opener sounds something like Molly Hatchet doing a cover of Motley
Crue's "Live Wire", which is actually pretty cool. Rebel Pride
is a southern rock boogie band that brings back the sound of late '70s /early
'80s rockers such as Molly Hatchet, .38 Special, The Outlaws
and Blackfoot. Rebel Pride is heavy on guitar solos and jamming,
and a bit light on song writing, but in a live setting I bet they go over
great. If you're a good ol' Southern boy or girl you'll do yourself right
by checking out these guys.
-- (2007)
The Receivers - Decades - CD
(Stunning
Models On Display) The music on this disc has light alternative orchestral
sound. The music and vocals are very subtle and help to give the overall
composition of this release a sublime weightlessness. The sound vergers
on the edge of prog rock or new age, but thankfully never takes the plunge.
The way the music flows so effortlessly from the speakers helps to emphasize
the artistry and skill of this two man ensemble.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
The Red + The Black - Plans for Next Year - CDEP
(The
Selfstarter Foundation) When I saw this CD I was assuming it would
either be a post-punk noise band or some lame alternative band. How wrong
I was once again. The Red + The Black are a great rock band which
straddles the line between emo and indie rock. The closest comparison I
can think of would be Knapsack, but they still stand on their own.
My only complaint is that this is a mear five song EP. Where is the full
length disc? Huh? I'm waiting...
-- Grog Mutant (2002)
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Stadium Arcadium - 2CD
(Warner Brothers
Records) At first I thought it was just me. I listened to the double
CD twice and still couldn't think of a coherent thing to say other than
I really like the first track "Dani California". The rest of the 28 song
double album was fine and diverse, but nothing really jumped out or hung
with me. After loaning it to a few people and hearing similar responses,
I read a review that had about the same feeling as me. Great music, but
nothing really flowed together.
It's like a sampling of all the great music they've made, but nothing new
and nothing to tie it all together. I love the Peppers, but this
release does nothing for me except make me reach for Mother's Milk
and think about the old days.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - Live- CD
(Virgin Records) The
Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is a band I would lump into the same category
as My Chemical Romance, Fallout Boy and Hawthorn Heights.
They are really pop bands with alternative-punk undertones. The first two
tunes on this release; "In Fate's Hands" and "Waiting" are the standouts.
And while the rest of the songs are very radio-friendly, they almost get
to the point where they sound generic. While this CD isn't a bad release,
it just doesn't stand out either.
-- Mite (2006)
I thought it was bit better than Mite lets on , plus my son and his friends
are totally wild about the band.
-- Grog (2006)
Red Pony Clock - God Made Dirt - CD
(HHBTM Records) While
this is odd, fun and charming it is most least favorite release by HHBTM
Records. The play goofy music that has hints of vaudeville, 60s Tiny
Tim, post-punk and Dead Milkmen like college rock. Red Pony
Clock has 10 members playing a bizarre assortment of instruments from
Accordion to Theramin, Thundertube to Conga and all sorts in between including
your typical instruments. While this is usually a great thing in my eyes
they just don't gel for me. At times I hear hints of They Might Be Giants,
but nothing really resonates and they start to get on my nerves. If you
love experimental college rock then Red Pony Clock will be fine.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Red Sammy - Dog Hang Low - CD
(The Beechfields)
"In Review"
-- (2009)
Red to Violet - Surrender to the Unknown - CD
(Red to Violet)
When I first started listening to this disc, my first thought was
that this really sucks. The mixing was bad, the lyrics cheesy and vocals
weak. Then on the third song, something happened. The music picked up, the
mixing fell into place, the lyrics were better and the vocals were wonderful.
After listening to the disc a couple of times it almost seems like there
were two bands that recorded this disc. One was really good, and the other
just completely sucked. The tune "Unconditionally" is a perfect example
of the bad. It comes off as a weak "special moment" song from a bad '80s
movie. But then there's "Be What I Am", "Hold On, Follow Through" and "Can
You Handle It to Be Happy" which are all wonderful. I think the difference
is that these songs have a bit of bite to them. All in all, the disc is
about 50/50.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Red Wanting Blue - These Magnificent Miles - CD
(Red Wanting Blue)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
Redcast - EP - CD
(Redcast) Jangly
is the term I will use to describe the music on this excellent CD. The closest
comparison I could make for this band is a combination of Death Cab for
Cutie and Ben Folds. The music has a '60s poppish flair to it
that's perfect listening music while you're walking down the street. Every
song on this release is catchy, but my favorite by far is the opening track
"Beside Myself."
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
The Reel Banditos - Indochina - CD
(Reel Banditos)
"In Review"
-- (2008)
Reggie and the Full Effect - Last Stop: Crappy Town - CD
(Vagrant Records) I
know I’ve heard of these guys before and I see that they’re on Vagrant
Records, which is usually a good sign. Vagrant was always a great label
back in the 90s. However, it hasn’t been the 90s for quite some time and
things change. So, instead of punk-pop or melodic hardcore I hear something
that is a cross between NoFX minus the humor and scream-o without
all the power. Yep, it has it’s moments, but the vocals are like a geek
and a jock got into an argument over the same girl while drunk at a beer
fueled college mixer.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Ruby Rendrag - Wartime Favorites - CD
(Ruby Rendrag)
-- (2008)
Rented Mule - Rented Mule - CD
(Rented Mule) The music is decent enough on this bluesy-jazz release, but
it really doesn't do anything for me. None of the songs really popped for
me and I think it mostly has to do with production. The instruments just
seem to sound muted and muddy. The sound coming out of the brass instruments
is dull when it should be bright and punchy.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Paul Renz - ReBop - CD
(Paul Renz) What I like best about the music on this jazz release is its
subtleness. The two instruments that stand out are the guitar (Paul Renz)
and flute (Anders Bostrom), still they aren't over-powering. And on a tune
like "Sloppy Joe" they complement each other as well as the rhythm section
quite wonderfully. Every tune on this release has a catchiness that gets
your fingers a-snappin' and toes a-tappin', especially the flute driven
"Ayo's Hat". What a great tune.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Retrospectro - Anodyne - CD
(Rainy Day Records)
This is one of those bands that people would either love or hate. The main
reason for this is the singer's unique voice which on the first track is
like somebody with a very normal voice imitating Bob Dylan really
badly. The rest of the songs rock out a bit, in an indie rock way, with
the vocals sounding more Lou Reedish. The first track "Sleepwalking"
repeats one line at least 50 times at the end which just drove me crazy.
On other tracks they tend to repeat the most clever lines, which makes them
less effective and annoying. Remember "There's a very fine line between
stupid and clever".
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Rev. Bob & The Darkness - Gallows Hill - CD
(Go Save Yourself)
Rev. Bob & the Darkness has a hippy folk-rock sound with male and
female vocals trading off on the leads and female vocals overpowering on
the harmonies. I found that the songs I enjoyed the most were the ones where
the female vocals staid in a mellower realm like on "What the Hell". Another
song I really enjoyed was "What I Do." However, when the female vocals picked
up volume the more grating they got and the less I enjoyed them. I also
found the band overused the male and female harmonies a bit too much. It's
like having a cowbell and using it on every song because you have it. The
result is that it makes many of the songs sound the same and in the end
it's really not needed so much. One such example is the song "Caroline".
The male vocals had this cool groove going and the overpowering female vocals
on the harmonies just ruined it for me. So while I wasn't completely enamored
with this release, I do see room for improvement and the potential.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Rev. Bubba D Liverance & The Cornhole Prophets - Let My People Dance
- CD
(Rev. Bubba Band)
The good Rev. Bubba is obviously having fun with his bluesy, Motown-lovin'
bandmates. More power to them for continuing the grand tradition of the
middle-aged house band (an age I'm staring down the barrel of, I might add).
'Having said that, I must confess I hated this album. The only highlight
for me was the first track, "Let My Peoples Dance." The second the chorus
hit me, I fell out of my chair laughing because I was envisioning a group
of ancient Israelites shimmying their way across the Reed Sea with Moses
up front doing the electric slide (a dance I loathe, by the way). The rest
of the tracks were just a bunch of uninteresting musical cliches - albeit
played with much enthusiasm, but still not very memorable.
Sorry, Reverend. You've convinced me that God has a twisted sense of humor,
but you haven't convinced me that this album is worth buying.
-- Fonda Mutant (2009)
The Rewinds - The Rewinds - CD
(Livewire Recordings)
"In Review"
-- (2006)
Ahab Rex - The Queen of Softcore - CD
(Lens Records)
This is a five song EP remix of a track called "The Queen of Softcore".
The first thing that hit me about this song was the upfront bass that sounded
very much like "Debaser" by the Pixies. Their style fits into the
indie college rock realm with bored, seductive vocals both male and female.
My favorite remix was done by the singer/songwriter himself, with it's punctuated
sparseness. The other versions were decent and contrasting enough to make
the whole thing interesting, except for the last one, "Nookleptia Remix"
which was an annoying jumble of loops. I like the song and band, but I can't
wait for the whole release.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Ahab Rex - Blood On Blonde - CD
(Lens Records)
Ahab Rex have a unique sound in that the songs have an industrial
band feel minus the bass and beats. The vocals are whispery ruff and have
elements of Ministry, Tom Waits and My Life with the Thrill
Kill Kult about them. The lyrics are more spoken than sung and had me
thinking this band would be great doing an industrial cover version of the
song “People are Still Having Sex” by LaTour "The Queen of Softcore" is
a catchy tune that incorparates female vocals into the mix. This is followed
up by the the fun poppy tune "Thank You Mister Russia (An Alcoholic Love
Story," which battles with “Dope Sick” as my favorite song on this release.
"Dope Sick" has a strong Tom Waits quality about it. The Industrial side
of the band shines through on the final two tracks, which are remixes. The
better of the two is the Pigface Remix of "To Whom It May Concern."
It's refreshing to hear unique music that is actually good. Thank You Ahab
Rex.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Gary Reynolds and the Brides of Obscurity - Santiago's Vest - CD
(Brides of Obscurity)
I love this CD. The sound and vocals remind me of a cross between Adrian
Belew and a nasal voiced John Lennon. The music is very catchy
and deceptively clean, which works perfectly with the wonderful vocals and
great lyrics. The songs remind me of the great music of late '80s college
radio. While I enjoy just about all of the songs on this release with "Mrs.
Lowe", "Everybody's Somewhere" and the Adrian Belew lyric-like "Wall
Eyed Girl" being a few of my favorites "Where Do We Go from Here" is heads
above the rest. This is a solid CD from start to finish.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
The Rhythm Merchant - Trampoline - CD
(inDIY Records) These guys really do their best when they play their brand
of post-hardcore punk like on the lead track “Big Gun.” It’s pretty basic,
but it’s fast and tight. They also do a decent take on the RHCP’s
brand of white boy punk-funk with “Can’t Knock Me Down”. However, when the
singer tries to actually sing and they slow down to hard rock the problems
show up. The vocals just don’t match up and he doesn’t seem like he’s in
his natural range like on “And I Weep”. I think they would be best served
exploring their post hardcore and punk-funk leanings, then there would probably
be a full release I’d enjoy all the way through.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Walt Ribeiro - I.I - CD
(Walt Ribeiro)
This CD is quite different than most we receive since it's all classical
music. There are twelve tracks in all, but it really works as a full piece,
with melodies and lines weaving throughout the movements. I find projects
such as this amazing since it seems overwhelming to compose a full orchestral
score, compared to writing your part on one instrument. While this can't
match the classics, it is some of the finest modern orchestral music I have
ever heard. Walt Ribeiro deserves a lot of credit for completing
this work. Who knows maybe someday in the future Ribeiro will be mentioned
as a classical great.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
The Tony Rich Project - Exist - CD
(Hidden Beach Recordings)
-- (2008)
Richards & Fitch - A Couple of F Holes - CD
(Richards
& Fitch) I was expecting a bit more playfulness on this CD, especially
with its title 'A Couple of F Holes". The simple acoustic folk style of
the songs on this release is decent enough, but it doesn't have anything
to it that makes it stand out. I would have loved to hear harmonies in the
vocals or the instruments playing off one another doing more than just strumming.
It's like a bowl of Campbell's chicken soup, sure it's good, but the chicken
soup you get at Panera is so much better with all the extra spices and ingredients
mixed in just right. Still this CD is worth the listen, and if you have
time for only one song then make it the final tune on the release, "The
Musician's Disposition."
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Rawlyn William Richter III - Rawlyn William Richter III -
CD
(Rawlyn
William Richter III) The first thing I thought when I picked up this
release is that the photo of the fellow on the front makes him look scary
as hell. Then I flipped the case over and looked at the song titles. I have
to say with tunes such as "Them Slave-Women Blues," "Who's Your Big Daddy
Now?," "Love is Like a Car Bomb" and "The Shotgun Manifesto", I didn't have
too much hope for this release. I have to say that I was a bit surprised.
For the most part RWR III's sound is Texas bar band blues rock, but
there's a sprinkle here and there of reggae that he throws into the songs
to give them that little extra something. Not bad at all.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Rickshaw -"Sonic Overload" - CD
(Devil Doll Records)
Ray Ricky Rivera - Neighborhood Fame - CD
(Triumphant Records)
Man it has been a while since I got hit with one of these. A guy full of
himself and enough money to record a CD. Standard braggadocio rap without
any redeeming qualities as far as I can tell.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Nick Robin - Back From The Dead - CD
(Nick Robin) Nick
Robin is yet another male singer-songwriter with a mellowness in his
songs. This release does have it's moments. The Melodious songs "The Coldest
WInd", "Put Your Things Away", "The Western Sun" and the more upbeat "Dudes"
are catchy and would work well together as a killer EP. However, the rest
of the songs aren't even worth a full listen as they are just boring and
forgettable. Still, if you are the type of person who likes you're music
more on the placid side, then the music of Nick Robin just might
be right for you.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Davina Robinson - The Blazing Heart - CD
(Davina Robinson)
The music on this release has me thinking that this is what it would sound
like if a late '80s hair metal cover band tried to write a rock musical.
There's a whole lot of generic guitar wanking going on here. And while Davina's
vocals aren't horrible, they seem they would be better on a Broadway stage
in a real musical rather than fronting a rock band.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Chris Robley - The Drunken Dance of Modern Man in Love - CD
(Cutthroat Pop Records)
A very interesting and entertaining release. Chris Robley has a dark
and subdued voice and when paired with strings, horns and keys all playing
in a minor key it is quite an experience. Something like Boingo meets
World Inferno Friendship Society and Tarot Bolero. At other
times when he tries to make things a bit lighter his unique voice just feels
out of place. On great tracks like "Centaura" it really feels like he is
channeling Danny Elfman at his best. Overall this is one of the best
releases I've heard this year and will earn a place in my permanent collection.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Chris Robley & the Fear of Heights - Movie Theatre Haiku - CD
(Cutthroat Pop Records)
"In Review"
-- (2009)
Roc - Night Fold Around Me - CD
(12 Apostles Records)
With whispering vocals and techno beats, ROC's third release seems
to lash out and wrap itself around the listener with a rich, enticing soundscape.
Some of the melodies feel a bit forced, but for the most part ROC
has a handle on what they want to convey and they eventually get their point
across. One of this disc's shining moments is "Sing a Poor Song". The keyboard
work is soft and easy while Fred Browning's velvety voice asks "one day
what if you should/ fly away for good/ then what would I do" before it bursts
open with a lush instrumentation only to soften back up and cuddle the listener
some more. I also like the single version of "Journey to the Center of Brixton";
it's like techno-Blondie. This isn't my favorite kind of music, but ROC
is good at it and with three extra tracks Night Fold Around Me is
worth a peek.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)
Roche Limit - Sometimes We Must Change Shape - CD
(Roche Limit) "In
Review"
-- (2009)
Rock Kills Kid - Rock Kills Kid - CD
(Fearless Records)
The band name is a bit misleading in that I thought I was in for some hard-biting
punk. What I got was beautifully executed melodic pop-punk, (is this what
they call emo?). The songs are all around exceptional, and the production
is top-notch. While I loved all the songs, two really stood out to me. "Be
There" reminded me a bit of the theme for "Friends," which I like. "Immanuel"
is another gem of a tune that has me thinking about the great book Ishmael
by Daniel Quinn. Truly a great release.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
The Rocket Summer - Do You Feel - CD
(Island Records)
I really am starting to think that 2007 will be remembered for being one
of the worst years for rock. Maybe we are seeing it's death. It could be,
but there are some really great bands out there…unfortunately The Rocket
Summer is not one of them. They do have their moments, like the emoish
"Do You Feel", but bad pop songs like "So Much Love" just kill them for
me. Overall the music is well played and really clean, but the voice gets
a bit too whiney and the lyrics are too hokey. See the Rocket Summer
wash away into oblivion.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Daniel Rogers - This Side Of The Green Arrow - CD
(Vinechaser Records)
I was concerned at first about this release, because when I pressed play
a new-age/sci-fi robot vocal sound came out of my speakers. Thankfully it
gave way to a catchy mellow acoustical tune 44 seconds into the song. Unfortunately,
the whole CD is stuck in first gear and becomes boring quite quickly. Each
tune comes across as a melodramatic song from a musical where the protagonist
in a melancholy mood softly reflects on something that has happened, something
they wished would happen, or someone they want it to happen with. Yeah,
it’s works when it helps break up the action, but when it’s the whole show
it fails.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Rogue Thief - The History of Things to Come - CD
(Rogue Thief)
I have to say that the repetitiveness of the drum loops and guitars got
to me very quickly on this release. The lyrics are presented in a rapid
fire sing-songy style which also gets old quick. The production quality
definitely has that one person band feel to it and the weak vocals don't
help either. Can you tell that this one just didn't do it for me.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Allene Rohrer - Alchemy - CD
(Allenes Music)
This CD is what many people would call womyns music, which is basically
female singer with a hippie-folk new age sound. The lyrics are overly sappy
and are meant to inspire. While I am a big fan of female singer/songwriters,
this is a sound that I have never liked. If you are a fan of this type of
music, then you would probably like this, but I find it generic of the genre.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Brian Rolland - The Tide's In - CD
(Brian Rolland)
Pleasant light jazz rock that has its moments but is primarily background
music. It all seems fine except when Brian sings, his voice just grates
on my nerves. Most of the songs trade off female singers who match the music
beautifully. If you like light jazz rock or just enjoy something non-intrusive
in the background then this is right up your alley.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)
Alex Romero - Melodrama - CD
(Alex Romero)
Alex has a sound that's not quite R&B, not quite soft-alternative and not
quite funky but at the same time seems to incorporate the three. And while
the songs can be catchy ("You Don't Have Me" is a perfect example) there's
just something about them that just doesn't quite grab me. The straight-faced
dance club parody of "Real Good View" where he sings "Shake your tits and
booty on your baby daddy's face" is like that for me. "Moving On", "Great
Unknown" and the very Bjork-like "Bite of Apple" are all wonderful
songs, so this is definitely worth checking out.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
Rooney - Calling The World - CD
(Geffen Records) Bad
'70s logo, bad '70s haircuts and bad '70s style music. Sure the sound is
smooth and processed for the '00s, but otherwise it a rehash of the worst
of the '70s. I heard this band is really popular, but I really don't see
how. Popular music really needs a new wake up call. This lame crap just
doesn't cut it. Really bad pop that brings to mind a Chicago for
the current age. Just say no to this tripe. There really are good bands
out there…I swear!
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Laura Roppe - Girl Like This - CD
(Laura Roppe)
-- (2008)
AJ Rosales - Ultramarine - CD
(Novelty Records)
I like AJ Rosales' sound. His guitar work, at time acoustical at
others electric, has this fun little groove to it. This is perfectly demonstrated
on the tunes "3:15" and "So Sad". While his guitar is just as good on the
slower singer-songwriter tunes, his vocals just doesn't seem to work as
well. It's like the need to have that full band sound to help them shine.
Still not too bad.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Rosavelt - The Story of Gasoline - CD
(Gaff
Music) The real story of gasoline is that it's what the vocalist gargles
with to get his Rod Stewart meets Paul Westerberg singing
style. The music of Rosavelt has a great drunken country-punk rock-n-roll
punch which compliments the vocals perfectly. "The Story of Gasoline", "Perfect
Girl" and "A Little Bit of Trouble" are just a few of the standouts. However,
you will want to pick up this release and listen to it from beginning to
end to get the full effect. I bet this band would be great to see live.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Al Rose - My First Posthumous Release - CD
(Monkey Holding Peach
Records) This is a pretty goofy release, but given the album name it
was to be expected. The music is bluegrass / country played with skill and
meaning, but the real star here are the vocals and lyrics. With songs like
"I'm Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone" and "The Miracle of Pain" you know the
lyrics aren't all sunshine and roses, but they are meaningful turns of phrases
that build a surrealist tapestry. While this music is of a style I typically
try to avoid I must say I found myself liking it quite a bit. Which goes
to show that if any style is done well it can impress beyond any genre boundaries.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Arrica Rose & The ...'s - Last Night On Earth - CD
(Christmas Island Music)
When I started listening to “Turn” the first tune on this release, Arrica
Rose’s vocals seemed to have a Martha Davis (of the Motels)
quality about them, while the music had a nice groove going on. Arrica
and her band get a bit twangy on the next two tunes, which worked well,
especially on the song “Rid of You.” I guess the only cut I didn’t like
was the closer “Silence (Is All We Need)”, which sounds a bit too out of
place as compared to the rest of the release. So when you look at it, four
out of five isn’t bad.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)
Rose of Jericho - These City Lights - CD
(Rose of Jericho)
They have a sound that's similar to Flyleaf mixed in with a mid 90's
Goo Goo Dolls sound on the guitar. Their music and vocals are good
but they never really seem to really grab me. There are moments, but it
lacks the big hooks that really draw you into a song and keep it in your
mind. Overall I think they have a lot of great things going for them including
the vocalist's seductive voice and the occasional string arrangements creeping
up from the background. With some more time I can see Rose of Jerico
really going somewhere and making their mark.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Rosey - Luckiest Girl - CD
(Quango) Ultra sultry
and sexy jazz that crosses over into the realm of pop, but not in a cheesy
way. I could easily see Rosey taking the stage in a long, sleek black
dress and sashaying her way across the stage in front of her jazz band and
striking a pose sitting on the edge of the pianists piano. The songs are
comfortable and familiar even though they are all originals, just very well
crafted with loads of hooks and just enough sass to keep a guy hooked.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Danny Ross - Introducing Danny Ross - CD
(Danny Ross)
Piano based mellow rock that is like a subdued Ben Folds with a bit
of jazz infused for good measure. Danny's voice is a bit weak and at times
he breaks into a falsetto that just makes me cringe. When he plays a bit
more forcefully and keeps his vocals in their natural range things really
work like on "If I Were You". Overall the piano and basic songwriting are
solid, and even the lyrics are better than most I hear. If Danny works a
bit more on his vocals he just might have something worth raving about.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Stanley Ross - Favorites - CD
(Stanley Ross)
Given the cover and the name I was expecting a smooth jazz band, but what
heard was a lo-fi rock band channeling the Kinks. Stanley Ross
really did surprise me with their reprisal of early period British Invasion
style music. The only fault I can find is the overuse of "OoooooOoooo" in
the background vocals. At times it works, but mainly it just seems like
they couldn't figure out any lyrics. Overall a great disc of a style that
you really don't hear anybody else playing right now. A refreshing change.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Tommy Ross - Fairly, Twisted Logic - CD
Tommy Ross - Identity - CD
(Tommy Ross) There
used to be a fellow in Dayton who played various one-man shows who went
by the stage persona of E.Y.E. <a href="http://www.thechickenfishspeaks.com/eyeinterview.htm">(You
can read the interview with him by clicking here)</a>. He would play
guitar and sing covers accompanied by pre-recordings of drums and backing
vocals that he did in his home studio. He playing wasn't that great, and
at times you wouldn't know what song he was covering until he was halfway
done, but his sincerity and passion made his performances entertaining and
memorable. The songs on these CD's by Tommy Ross reminds me on E.Y.E.
However, it seems that Tommy has better playing ability and production,
but the vocal delivery is pretty much the same.
The songs on Identity are straight on rock with a lot of guitar shredding, "Caractacus Potts" and "Desert Vista" are two of the instrumentals where he lets his guitar do the talking the most. He has a John Lyndon of P.I.L. delivery on the tunes "Identity" and "Another Identity". A good sampling of his lyrics which remind me of E.Y.E. the most come from the song "Single Girls.", "Single girls, rock-n-roll, Single girls like to lose control, Single girls living in my soul" However, my favorite tune on this release is "First Base Blind Date."
Tommy Ross makes use of a drum machine, synthesizer and sound bytes on the CD Fairly Twisted Logic giving the songs more of a funky and industrial feel. He takes on such subjects as Big Brother ("The Master System"), animal rights (the Adrian Belew sounding "Don't Kill the Hippy Chimps") and the underbelly on Los Angeles ("The Cold & Lonely Streets of L.A.").
Now is the music on these two releases mind blowing or out of this world?
No, but what they do have is two distinct CD's by an artists who has passion
for his music and that shines through on these releases. That means a lot
where there are so many bands out there whose sole goal is to write poppy
songs to make money.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)
Rotary Down - Long After the Thrill - CD
(Static on Vinyl Records)
The one thing that I didn't find while listening to this release was anything
that really thrilled me, and maybe that's the reason that this CD is called
what it is. Everything just kind of stood there. I was bored. The quality
of the recording was wonderful, and the vocals reminded me a bit of Lou
Reed, but without the punch. A CD to sigh to.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)
Gabrielle Roth + The Mirrors - Still Chillin' - CD
(Raven Recording)
Gabrielle Roth + The Mirrors music has a calming and ambient percussive
sound that I would liken to an ethereal Dead Can Dance with lyrics.
Consisting of various percussion instruments over a blend of synthesizer
and female voice, every song on this release is a musical equivalent of
bliss. So put this on, light some candles, close your eyes and let the music
relax your mind.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)
Gabrielle Roth & the Mirrors - The Intoxication of Surrender - CD
(Raven Recordings)
"In Review"
-- (2009)
Greg Roth - Caught Looking - CD
(Rio Rancho Records)
Greg has a singing style that I would describe as breathy. Greg is best
with the songs that have a more playful feel and playful lyrics. It may
be the Lebowski in me, but my favorite tune on this release is "League Bowlers."
"First Day" and "The Sound of Your Voice" where Greg sweetly sings "I hate
the sound of your voice," are two more to enjoy. At times I can hear a fleeting
bit of Paul McCartney & Ben Folds sound on some tunes.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)
Rouge Motel - Daylight Breaking - CD
(Rouge Motel) This
is a bit different than their EP I heard some time ago. Where I had compared
them to a pared down Wild Colonials on the EP, in this full disc
they blend aspects of the Wallflowers, Chamberlain and Concrete
Blonde without being nearly as good as any of them. They have a decent
sound reminiscent of the aforementioned bands, but this just lacks the depth
and dark emotion that makes the others stand out.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
David Rubin - Secret Agent - CD
(Satellite Records)
The liner notes say this was recorded in a Canadian studio, but this release
sounds like Rubin is a whiz with digital music software. The music
is just too tight, polished and seamless – while the vocals clearly sound
like an overdub, someone singing over those preset song patterns on a Casio
keyboard. Truth is, Rubin does get credit for composing and performing
everything here, so that might be the case. The result is a sound similar
to what Cincinnati’s disbanded Fudgie & Fufu pulled off, and it’s
not far from some of Evolution Control Committee’s similarly structured
projects wound up like, although most of the humor those bands use is replaced
with a crooner’s sensibility. Regardless, the disc is a lot of fun, and
David Rubin probably puts on an amazing live show.
-- Billy Catfish (2006)
Rush - Gold - 2CD
(Universal
Chronicles) This double disc covers 13 years of one of the best bands
of the 70's and 80's. I have a copy of all 12 releases represented on these
discs. The first covers their gold singles from the first seven releases,
which are all great, except their debut Rush. The second disc is my favorite
showcasing their last five albums when they moved from a progressive rock
style popular in the 70's to a more modern keyboard infused sound of the
80's. If you like your music technical and thought provoking then this Rush
collection is perfect. I am always happy to hear one of the best bass players
in the world, Geddy Lee!
-- Grog Mutant (2006)
Bayard Russell - Selftitled -CD
(Bayard
Russell) Slightly geeky musician boy meets girl. Girl and boy date for
a while. Girl breaks up with boy and he is shattered. Boy records CD using
girl as inspiration. CD starts off with a charmingly geeky attitude. Nice
song writing and vocals that really match the feel of the songs shine through
for the first few tracks. Then the boy starts singing a bit more about how
the girl should come back to him and how much better her life would be.
Boy carries on in that vein and it all gets creepy and obsessive. I think
the boy is very talented and has something special, he just needs to let
the girl go and write songs about something else. Trust me, there are plenty
of other girls out there and some will be amazed by you.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)
Luther Russell - Repair - CD
(Adrenaline
Music Group) This is a decent release with a most of the songs having
a fairly standard bouncy mellow rock sound, reminiscent of happy 70s bands.
My biggest problem is that Luther sounds a lot like Neil Diamond
on many of the songs he sings and I can't block out the similarity. The
music is very well played and the songs are all very catchy with loads of
hooks memorable lyrics. One of my favorite tracks is "Parachute" which sounds
like it could have been on Led Zeppelin III. Another favorite is
the haunting blues rock of "Nothing Else Remains". Overall a really
well done disc, but with voice I just can't get past.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)
Russian Spy Camera - You Are A Vulture - CD
(Happy Happy Birthday To Me Records)
This is a band whose style is difficult to describe. At one point I wanted
to call it techno pop punk, but then quickly realized that description would
not work. There were places in the CD where the Russian Spy Camera
reminded me of The Clash and at other points The Gorillaz
with hints of vintage surfer music throughout. This band has met my approval
for creativity and uniqueness. If this is what you're looking for then "You
are a Vulture" is worth checking out.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)
Rx Bandits - Progress - CD
(Drive-Thru
Records) The Rx Bandits sound a lot like early Supertones,
without the religious lyrics. Instead you get something more humanist with
a political slant. Great, powerful skapunk with excellent lyrics and maximum
skankability. A few of the songs get pretty funky, in a Red Hot Chili
Pepper's way, like "In All Rwanda's Glory". It's easy to find elements
of Reggae, punk and hardcore thrown in the mix, but the ska comes shining
through a bit like The Pietasters. Get skankin'!
-- Grog Mutant (2006)