The ChickenFish Speaks - Music Reviews "S" - Saga,Samiam,The Sammus Theory,San Geronimo,Pancho Sanchez,Scorpions, Screeching Weasel,Brian Setzer OrchestraShrug

Sachs, Jayne - Velveteen Girl - CD
(Peer Productions) I have to admit that I've been a fan of Jayne Sachs from the beginning when it was just her and her guitar. I had actually kept in good contact with Jayne in the beginning, then things happened to me (job loss, moving, marriage, divorce. the usual) and I lost contact with her. I actually caught up with her again for the release show for this CD. While I transformed from the skinny Elvis to the fat Elvis, Jayne was looking good as ever. And her music is nothing short of awesome.

Jayne's music has an acoustical pop feel with the loveliest of vocals that have just a hint of deviance in them. She also has a band helping her along, which does a wonderful job of giving each song that extra kick. The lyrics are great and the overall production quality is top notch.

You need to pick up this CD just to listen to the tune "Rain" which kicks off this release. I can't wait to see Jayne live again and when you get the chance to see her yourself, it's a treasure.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sad Sailor - Link to the Outside World - CD
(Public Eyesore) Three long jam sessions of sonic noise featuring guitars, bass, cello, trumpet, synthesizer and drums. I remember creating things like this when I was in high school. This makes me realize that it sounds better if you’re one of the people playing it as opposed to listening to it on CD.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sadiki - Morning's Come - CD
(Skinny Bwoy Records) Sadiki is a blend of R&B and Hip Hop done over a smooth and danceable reggae beat. Most of the tracks are love songs with Sadiki’s smooth voice gliding over the beat and meshing with the other instruments. If you’re looking for something smooth and soulful then this is your release.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)

Sadistik - The Balancing Act - CD
(Sadistik) This is a very interesting CD in many respects. The cover with its grey tones and raven haired woman in white with a bird hanging from her hair screams goth or death metal at the least. The opening instrumental refrain reminded me of the band And They Will Know Us by The Trail of Dead while most of the music on this release is anchored by foreboding piano. Now get this, Sadistik is a rapper and this is basically a rap album. It's also one of the few rap albums that I have heard lately that I actually like. The lyrics are intelligent and the presentation reminds me of Eminem or Rage Against the Machine at times with different pacing. This is one that's definitely worth checking out.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Saemskin - A Simile For Murder - CD
(Saemskin) Some guy in Toledo has a synth, a loop machine, drum machine and other various electronic musical devices. He decides to make an album and release the songs as Saemskin. All the tracks have the same general structure. A looped percussion based bottom layer with various sounds / beats thrown on top in a melodic way. Sometimes it works "Brought the Fire " which sounds like something out of a soundtrack for a post apocalyptic movie. Othertimes it just doesn't go anywhere and never becomes cohesive "Simile for Murder". Overall it does remind me of the early days of industrial when bands like Skinny Puppy and KMFDM seemed everywhere. Not bad overall, but there is room to explore and develop.
-- (2007)

SafetySuit - Life Left To Go - CD
(Universal Records) This is the type of music that one would expect to hear on the soundtrack to one of those teenager focused CW television shows like the new Beverly Hills 90210, Gossip Girl. you know what I mean. Safetysuit sounds like a generic manufactured pop band disguised as an alternative band so they seem hip. Most of the songs are something that one would probably hear at a high school dance.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Saga - House of Cards - CD
(SPV GMBH Steamhammer)Why do I want to sing the song "Eye of the Tiger" whenever I think of the name of this band? The sound is almost like a combination of early '80s Styx and the band Europe.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Saint Low - Saint Low - CD
(Thirsty Ear Recordings) This is pretty close to what I've come to expect from Thirsty Ear. A good college radio band that at times will hold my interest or at times fall just short. This is one of those times it falls short. There is nothing wrong with Saint Low, it's just that I got bored with them by the fourth song and had to force myself to listen. They are a good band it just wasn't my cup of tea...especially since I don't drink tea.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Julian Sakata - See? - CD
(Julian Sakata) Julian sounds like he is heavily influenced by David Bowie. His music has that acoustic and thoughtful rock sound, with just the right amount of spaciness. I guess that is one reason while his style reminds me of local singer Todd Weidner (Shrug) so much. This is really evident on the opening tune "The Day I Wasn't Attacked." I also hear hints of the Wedding Present on tunes such as "The Restoration of a Child's Robot," "Suffer the Young" and "Moth". This is an excellent release that I can listen to over and over again, and I have.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Salt-N-Pepa - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Music Company) I have never really been into rap, so many of the songs on this 'best of' collection are new to me. So while I'm familiar with "Push It" and "Whatta Man (with En Vogue)" other good tunes like "Shake Your Thang (feat. E.U.), "Let's Talk About Sex" and "Shoop" were all pleasant surprises. The '80s rap style of the group at times sounds dated, but there is also something refreshing about the roughness of the music and vocals. The self respecting lyrics of Salt-N-Pepa are another thing that I am impressed with. It's kind of sad that many of today's female rappers choose to use sexual suggestiveness as their main selling point. This is the music that should be influencing the young girls of today.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sam Densmore's Silverhawk - Flowers in June E.P. - CD
(POP Sweatshop) The only thing I hate about this CD is the name of the band. Sam Densmore's Silverhawk made me think that I would be listening to a rock band from the early '70s, ala Ritchie Blackmores Rainbow. To my surprise the four tunes on this disk turned out to be nice little alternative pop ditties. Nice.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Sames - E.P - CD
(Pox World Empire) This is a five song EP from a postpunk band that answers to the call of The Sames. The tunes are good, but they just didn't stick to my ribs...or even my ears.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Samiam - Astray - CD
(Hopeless Records) A good, strong release from one of the best Punk-pop bands out there today. Samiam have been around for many years and age hasn't diminished them at all. Catchy rhythms, heartfelt lyrics and loads of energy. My favorite track is "Dull" which I can totally relate to, unfortunately. It's basically about how life gets dull when you grow up and realizing that it's probably the reason his friend took his own life. You want to go back to certain times, but you can't because that's how life goes. (I'll write more on this later in some article.) This is great release from a great band.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

The Sammus Theory - Man Without Eyes - CD
(OCI Records) Certain death for a metal band is to plagiarize another well established artist. The Sammus Theory does it almost right out of the gate. Track two "Lead Foot" is a blatant rip-off from the first note as anyone acquainted with Metallica‘s Black Album could attest. Of course it strays but please, it’s still “Don’t Tread on Me.” I’d rather not review something someone stole and we all know how Metallica feels about THAT. But since we said we would, we will review this effort.

The vocals are unconvincing and stale, like four week old rye bread. The guitars are muddy and the musicians’ boredom with the material seeps right through to the listener. There is absolutely no attitude on this disc. Layne Staley of Alice in Chains had a definite impact on the singers’ style except it’s not style; it’s unfocused and imprecise impressionism. Staind’s influence also makes itself clear from the start and it remains throughout, except when they’re ripping off Metallica. Intense, heavy metal is certainly my bag, but The Sammus Theory-Man Without Eyes is a waste of time.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

The Sammus Theory - See (it) Through - CD
(OCI Records) Hard and Heavy, this album is definitely not something you want to listen to when you have a headache. The music reminds me on a combination of Korn and Linkin Park, very intense but melodic. While I enjoyed many tunes on this release "Pillbox" and "The Weak" we're the standouts to me, as well as the nice instrumental piece "Black Out". If you are into the aforementioned bands and want to hear some fresh sounds along that line, then you should definitely check out this one by The Sammus Theory.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Samrita - Samrita - CD
(Samrita Music) This is an excellent release. Samrita's vocals are heavenly and her style reminds me a bit of The Sundays. The alternative acoustic music of Rob Jones melds perfectly with Samrita's vocals. With how much I liked this release, I do have two issues with it. The first one is that it's too damn short. How dare you tease me with just three songs. The second more serious issue is the CD cover. If I saw this in a record store or library I would never think to listen to this release. The cover is generic and made me think that I was either going to hear a bad self-released pop or new-age Christian music. I expect the cover art to improve greatly once this band is signed, and I believe they have a great chance of doing so. Do check this out.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

San Geronimo - San Geronimo - CD
(Coldfront Records)Featuring former members of Jets to Brazil, Lefetime & Drowning Man, San Geronimo has a rocked out pop punk sound that is tops. This CD is guaranteed to have you flailing ridiculously around the room in a fevered punk dance.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Pancho Sanchez - Ultimate Latin Dance Party - 2CD
(Concord Records) This is one of those releases where the title says it all. This 2 CD release is the soundtrack to the ultimate Latin dance party. Poncho Sanchez's music is mixture of Latin dance music and jazz. With horns and drums galore, you will find your feet dancing around by their own free will when you listen to this CD. And with 23 songs in all, they will be dancing around for awhile. I used to be able to hear great music like this on local radio station WYSO when they had their local jazz shows. But that is a thing of the past due to the lameness of station management. So, I'm very happy that we got this one in.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Saving Abel - Saving Abel - CD
(Capitol Records) "In Review"
-- (2008)

ScannerFunk - Wave of Light By Wave of Light - CD
(Sulphur Records) E-Lec-Tron-I-CA! This release takes me back eight years to the days when I use to do a new age/electronica/experimental radio show at WYSO-FM from midnight to the we hours of Monday morning. I would always get calls from artists who would be creating while listening to the wondrous sounds that I was playing. If I was still doing the show today, I'm sure this CD would be influencing modern day masterpieces from all over the Miami Valley.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Scar Culture - Inscribe - CD
(Century Media) This band is fairly typical of what I've heard from Century Media over the years. Very, very, very heavy black metal and the like. This is a band that John would love, especially since these guys throw in a bit of industrial to their harder than hell sound. If you like heavy and dark then this is for you.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Steffen Schackinger - Electri Guitartistry - CD
(CandyRat Records) Steffen is a guitar virtuoso in the vein of Steve Via playing a variety of rock based songs where the guitar is the melody and center of attention. Some people love this stuff, typically guitarists, but many people find the songs lacking due to the absence of vocals. I feel that Steffen does a better than average job at making his guitar sing and capture part of what is missing. In the end it all comes down to how much you like instrumentals. If you do and favor the guitar then you are in for a treat as this is one of the top tier.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)

Schema - Schema - CD
(5RC)Schema is groovy. Schema is spacy. Schema is campbell, sadie, ric, and mary. Schema is soft female vocals. Schema is perspicaciously out of control. Schema is fucking awesome. Schema is Schema. Schema is grand.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Schoenemann, Dietrich - An Agenda and a Beat - CD
(Instinct Records) Shake it. Shake it. Shake it. Uh Huh! Uh Huh! A techno beat filled CD that will have you moving around your house or in your car like you're at the funkiest rave ever. Relying more on a groovin' feel as opposed to a relentless beat, Dietrich offers up a disk full of tunes that rise above the rest.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Scholomance - The Immortality Murder - CD
(The End Records) The first song starts you off with a nice long classical piano solo. Then the second track casts you off into a classic Yngwie Malmsteen wank off extreme between bass, guitar, drums and keyboards. This was OK for a while but I had my fill back in the late 80's when this whole style started. Maybe if I was 19 again I could deal with it, but now it's just so friggin pretentious...
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Scorpions - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Music)
Oh man, I love the Scorpions. One of the first songs that I learned on the guitar was "Rock You Like a Hurricane". When I was in cross country we use to rock out to "The Zoo" going to the meets. And who could forget the urban legend that Ronnie James Dio and the lead singer from the Scorpions were one and the same? And what about the classic covers? Forks in the eyes, chicks getting tattooed. And the music just rocked. Even their ballads kicked ass. The twelve songs on this release are well worth your hard earned cash, so get it today.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Scorpions - Bad for Good: The Very Best of - CD
(Hip-O / Universal Records) You get eighteen of The Scorpions greatest hits. Of course many of the newer ones just don't seem to hit like those hits of the 80's, but they have been around for 30 years now so I guess it's to be expected. Many of my favorites are on here such as "The Zoo", Still Loving You", No One Like You", "Blackout", "Big City Nights" and "Loving You Sunday Morning". Come on get this and rock out with Klauss.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Scorpions - Humanity Hour 1 - CD
(Universal Music Company) I have to start off by saying that this CD is so much better than I imagined it would be. The only problems that I had with the release are that it has too many ballads and the lyrics were a bit sappy at times, but the CD as a whole more than makes up for it. Humanity starts off with a modern rocker called "Hour 1" which had me thinking "oh no, they're trying to copy modern day bands." I quickly changed my perception when the vocals kicked in. Somehow when Klaus Meine started to sing, the song came off as a great '80s song that was ahead of it's time. Apart from the opening tune, the music on the rest of this release holds firmly onto it's '80s rock 'n' roll roots, while maintaining to sound as fresh as anything being put out by the newer bands today. "The Future Never Dies" has a classic Queen feel to it and had me thinking of My Chemical Romance's latest, as did "You're Loving Me to Death". Believe me, this is worth checking out.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Robert Scott - The Creeping Unknown - CD
(Thirsty Ear) Mellow experimental music that for some reason reminds me of the movie "Eraserhead". The use of piano and synth is prominent throughout this release with the vocals being sparse but fitting well with the music. This is the type of CD that I loved playing during the days when I did an electronica/experimental/new age radio show at WYSO.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Scratch Habit - Scratch Habit - 7"
(El Sabado Records) I was diggin' this until the vocals came in.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Screeching Weasel - Teen Punks in Heat - CD
(Lookout / Panic Button) Screeching Weasel is a punk rock institution very much like the Ramones. Actually they sound very similar to the Ramones except that instead of Joey Ramone's sedated voice you have Ben Weasel's whiny / snotty voice. They have been around since at least the mid-80's and sound relatively the same now. Always fun, always reliable, always Weasel.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

The Screwdrivers - The Scre&ers - CD
(Green Bean Music P.O. Box 135 Enfield, CT 06083) www.thescrewdrivers.com I can honestly say that I wasn't expecting much when I received this independently released CD in the mail. But I find that it hasn't left my computer CD player for five days now. I am totally hooked and believe that this is one of the top five releases of 2002. They have a great sound that is at once unique and familiar. They play with feeling and you can hear the emotion they project like Soul Asylum, The Replace&, The Wallflowers and others of that ilk. The Screwdrivers need to be heard and I think if they get the exposure could turn about the crappy state of radio today.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Scum of the Earth - Blah...Blah...Blah - CD
(Eclipse Records) While Rob Zombie is off making movies, Scum of the Earth decided to step in and carry on his legacy of cranking out killer industrial rock jams, and they do one hell of a job. They start things off with a bang with "I am the Scum", and follow it up with the industrial dance My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult sounding "Bloodsukinfreakshow". I also thoroughly enjoyed the sad little song about their tiny friend called "Little Spider". If you're the strip club type, you'll probably hear "Altergirl 13" quite a bit. With the refrain "C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, dance for me, C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, dance for me, C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, strip for me, it seems like it was written just for tittie bars. Scum does a decent job of taking the Queen classic "We will Rock You" and making it their own, however the song quality goes down a bit from there. It's like they put all their effort into making the first part of the disc, and just got tired for the rest of it. The best thing I can say about this release is that everyone I had listen to it, loved it. You should give it a listen too.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

The Secession Movement - ak-e-dem-ik - CD
(Keep Safe Records 1016 Berlin Rd Cherry Hill, NJ 08034) http://members.tripod.com/~SJSM/ Hmmmm...annoying art-rock? Badly played pop? I can't stand anymore please make it stop. I think I saw these guys when I was in my fourth day of drinking at WEK2...this could explain why I was found outside screaming "Yoko shut Up!!!" at 4 am that night.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

The Secession Movement - ak-ekdemik - CD
www.demouniverse.com/twpicks/sjsm.html The music on this disc is Rock steady and chaotic at the same time. That, combined with smoke filled punk Perry Ferral vocals gained this band a fan here at the Mutant Renegade compound. This is one of those releases that sounds great at first listen and keeps getting better with each additional spin on the CD player.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Second Dan - Bringing Down Goliath - CD
(Organic Entertainment) This is one of those bands that make's me think of someone different with each song. Like the second track "Forget to Remember" makes me think of Peter Bjorn and John. "The Elephant Fell to Earth" makes me think of Ben Folds meets Joe Jackson. The song "You Make Me Want to" is just a great rockin' song in the vein of mid 90's Goo Goo Dolls. "Run and Hide" brings out a bit of the New Pornographers but a bit darker sounding. A great release that has enough difference to really keep me interested and great songwriting to keep me listening to it again and again.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Secret Hate - Pop Cult Vomit - CD
(Cornerstone R.A.S) Track 3 entitled "Hamwater" reminded me of my ex wife with it's touching chorus of "you're so fat". This stuff turns corners on ya real quick, it sounds pretty hardcore but they throw in a bunch of cool guitar stuff that keeps you on your toes. There are some ballads and mellower stuff and then some crazy shit like my favorite track "Things You Never Do" which is decidedly Dead Kennedyesque. For you Dio fans there's even a metallic track called "Holy (duck) Diver" Diverse and cool.
-- Howard X (2001)

Talia Segal - Nonprophet - CD
(Talia Segal) Whenever we get music in I pop in most of the discs just to get a quick taste before seeing which ones I'll review and which get passed to other reviewers. The disc from Talia Segal caught me off gaurd and I listened to it all the way through twice. I was instantly captured by her sweet voice and catchy songs. The most I listened the more I heard similarities to come of my favorite female singer songwriters such as Rhonda Everitt, Natalie Merchant, Ani Difranco and Kristin Forbes. The five songs on this disc are all excellent and range from the tango tinged, pop rock with strings of "Been There" to the fun, catchy, folk-rock lesbian cheerleader song "Anna Joy". This release stands at the top of my best releases for the year. If you're on the east coast you might get a chance to see her live, if you're like me you should do what you can to get her to come to your area.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Jan Seiden - Memory of Time - CD
(Flute Journey Records) While I have heard quite a bit of Native American flute music during my time at WYSO, Brian Akipa is the only player that I know by na&d that's because he's a friend of a friend. There's something about the tonal quality of wooden Native American flutes that just totally relaxes the body, mind and spirit. That's one of the reasons why many massage therapist or yoga teachers play it while they ply their craft. The flute here is in very capable hands. Jan has the talent and the intelligence to know just the right notes to play to lull the listener into a peaceful rest. There is subtle use of other instruments on some of the tunes, but they are there to cushion the listener as the flute helps to lull you into an almost hypnotic state.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Seizure Crypt - Under the Gun - CD
(Bad Elephant Productions) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Seksu Roba - Pleasure Vibrations - CD
(Eenie Meenie Recordings) So many keyboards and sequensizers.and floating harmonies. I feel like I'm back in the 70's or something. Most of this makes me think of an Asian disco due to the vocalist, but a few tracks "Afternoon Rendezvous" in particular sounds like the soundtrack for an older softcore Skinamax film. Actually most of this could be used in a cheesy porn film.OK, I guess that is redundant. Still there is something fun about this disc that makes me smile. It seems so innocent and upbeat.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Selby Tigers - Charm City - CD
(Hopeless Records) Pretty straight forward old style late 70's feel punk rock. Short and to the point release that's just for fun.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Seldon Plan - Making Circles - CD
(OTP Records) You would never know that this indie rock CD is the first full release from The Seldon Plan. The mix is great, the band sounds very professional and it has very catchy lyrics and music. I couldn't help but tap my foot al,ong with the music, and after the first time listening to the CD I began singing along. This band has a sound all its own and I would recommend The Seldon Plan to anyone who enjoys a little mellow indie rock.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

Senses Fail - Still Searching - CD
(Vagrant Records) Senses Fail has been one of my favorite bands over the last couple of years. I was really looking forward to this release, but my thrill dissolved on my first listen. It's still the same band, but instead of the great hard rock / emo / scream-o that I'm used to, it sounded like the death of the hair metal bands in the late 80's. Way too much guitar wanking and extended solos ("Sick or Sane"), plus parts that seem made for an arena rock tour. They seem to have headed to more of a Fall Out Boy and My Chemical Romance direction instead their own path. There are still a few bright spots on the release like "Stretch Your Legs to Coffin Length", but I still have the feeling that they have headed off into a dead end. The finish out their album they cover "Salvation" by one of my favorite 90's bands, The Cranberries. They have a lot to aim for and they miss their mark.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Senses Fail - Life is Not a Waiting Room - CD
(Vagrant Records) Senses Fail happens to be one of my favorite bands of the last several years. However, when we had received their previous release I was disappointed in the direct. So, I was tentative about getting my hopes up for this release. Luckily they have bounced back on this release and deliver some great emo / scream-o tunes with some great lyrical stories even if at times the words used are a bit basic. I really do think they are developing as a band and still have a great future ahead of them. I think in many regards they compare to My Chemical Romance, but are better. My only complaint is that on a few songs the guitarist goes into 80's hair metal guitar wanking sessions (but not as bad as their last release). Thankfully the other elements make up for this hideous lapse of reason.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sentenced - The Cold White Light - CD
(Century Media Records) Wow, I was expecting the typical death metal that I've come to expect from most Century Media releases. Instead I was treated to a Queensryche style band from Finland. These guys sound very much like an updated Queensryche (who happen to still be one of my favorite metal bands) and have great songwriting to back it all up. The lyrics aren't as good as Geoff Tate's in my opinion, but they are close and soon could be on par. This totally kicks and is currently my favorite release ever from Century Media. Yes!
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Sergeant - Midnight to Midnight - CD
(Sergeant) This is one of those bands that although all the parts are there (great vocals, great music, great production) there doesn't seem to be any real synergy created by all of the parts coming together. The sound is heavy and goes well with the smokey-gruff female vocals, but none of the songs really stand out. Maybe it just all comes down to songwriting. The band needs to fade back on the distortion, bump up the rhythm and put out songs that are a bit more catchy, something that someone can sing to.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Louise Setara - Still Waters - CD
(Manhattan Records) Louise has a rich soulful voice that is very close to Norah Jones and even makes me think of Shakira at times. However, she never really lets go and reaches beyond the ballads that she does so well. A majority of these tracks are covers and while she does an excellent job with them I don't see her standing out on her own. Louise Setara is a wonderful singer and has a great voice, I just feel that she should put it to its full potential and stretch herself.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Bola Sete - Windspell - CD
(Samba Moon Records) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Setzer, Brian '68 Comeback Special - Ignition - CD
(Surfdog) Heading back to his rockabilly roots, Mr. Setzer belts out 14 '50s flavored melodies. The chorus for "5 Years, 4 Months, 3 Days" sounds very similar to the song "6 Days on the Road". My favorite song "Got 'em on the Ropes" has an almost "Rock 'n' Roll Music" Beatles flare. While this is a solid release by itself, it blushes in comparison to the gems that the Stray Cats put out in the '80s. Still you can hear why Brian Setzer is one of the few '80s artists who is still going strong and is so well respected among fellow musicians
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Brian Severn and Those Victorious - The Wonderboy E.P. - CD
(BDS Music) Elvis Costello‘s nerdy younger brother? (Or I guess at this point possibly his son?) Yeah, that’s saying a lot. Hearing the title track “Steady Set Ready Now” I get the image of a really weedy nerd trying to act and sound like a bad ass. It’s not like the lyrics are acting tough, it’s just the inflection in the vocals. Overall their music is somewhere in the realm of Toad the Wet Sprocket or Dishwalla, really great, melodic college rock with plenty of hooks. It’s just that the vocals rise to the top and the singer has a bit of nerdcore to his voice similar to the male singer from Baby Calendar or the aforementioned Elvis Costello. Overall a nice introduction to the band, I’m not hooked, but I am looking forward to their next release.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sewing with Nancie - Take a Look at Yourself - CD
(Fast Music) www.sewingwithnancie.com This is friggin great! Good old punk-pop from the great white north, played by some teens. These canuks have the sound and style of one of my all time favorite bands Sicko! If you like Blink 182 or Green Day, listen to these guys instead since they need more attention and seem to be fun guys who don't take themselves too seriously. Fun, fun, fun...this is a keeper. BTW - BUY THIS and see them live!
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Brian Setzer Orchestra - Jump, Jive & Wail 1994-2000 - CD
(Universal Records) This is a greatest hits collection featuring 23 songs that the BSO did from 1994-2000. Six of the tunes are covers some old; Jump, Jive An' Wail by Louis Prima some newer; The House is Rockin' by Stevie Ray Vaughan. The rest are a mix of songs by Mr. Setzer himself all done in modern style swing. Some of the songs lack the depth and feel that I love in good swing, but others bust out into full flavored break out your zoot suit swing! Overall it's a great collection and really fun to listen to. I think it could be shortened a bit and a few of the weaker tracks taken off, but still a fine release.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Seven 13 - Unleashed - CD
(What Matters Records) At first I thought that this band was going to be a bit on the cheesy side, and to a point I guess it is, but it's that good cheesiness. A movie equivalent would be The Lost Boys. When I got this CD from Grog, he said he had a hard time putting his finger on what it was about this band. I had the same feeling and then it hit me. A vision of Metallica's James Hetfield doing a rock musical popped into my head. It's like he saw the movie Moulin Rouge and was inspired. The songs are solid and just plain out rock. If the band really has killer theatrics as rumored, combined with this music, I can see them reaching semi-cult status.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Seven 13 - Drink - MPEG
(What Matters Records) www.seven13band.com I have to start out by saying that I actually do like the style of this band. On their CD review I described them as Metallica's James Hetfield doing a rock musical. And it seems like they try to bring a little theatrics into their live act, so maybe I wasn't so far off. However, having a gothie-looking chick chase around a bottle of wine (blood?) onstage like she's a crack addict is just a little hokey. And the reason I questioned if blood was in the bottle is that it looks an awfully lot like the bottle that contained vampire blood in the movie The Lost Boys, which I think was the inspiration for the song in the first place.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

The Seventh Season - Liquid Water - CD
(Independent Records) First off, the album cover of the band is a bit creepy. Here you have this Final Fantasy airbrushed-looking pretty boy being flanked by two older gentlemen. The music is a merging of European hard rock with a way off Broadway musical. Think of a typical Jack Black "metal epic" song being done seriously and you will have a pretty good idea of what this band sounds like.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Shades Apart - Sonic Boom - CD
(Universal Music) The band has a slick rockin' alternative sound. The vocals have a roughness about them that goes perfectly with the music. For some reason I keep thinking this is the type of band that I would see as the guest band on a late night talk show like David Letterman.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Shady Side - Later in the Past - CD
(Ex-ex-Records) These guys place great melodic hardcore much like you'd have heard on Victory Records circ late 90's. They have a bit too much screamcore for my taste, but on most songs it works really well and adds weight. In a way it feels like Fifteen at times, but their style is more akin to NOMEANSNO or System of a Down.

My favorite track is The Standstill with its slow build and well placed melody and harmony lines. Shadyside is one of the best bands who've been lurking around Dayton in the last few years.
-- Grog Mutant (2005)

The Shakedowns - Move! - CD
(VMS Records) Get a new drummer! I was annoyed beyond belief trying to listen to this cd. It took me four times listening to it before I could keep from blocking out the terrible lyrics, the horrid singer and the exact same drumbeat used in almost every song.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)

Glenn Shambroom & Friends - Band Math - CD
(Broomer Records) Glenn is a saxophonist / guitarist who plays really sax driven jazz that is akin to Benny Goodman but dragged into the 21st Century. The release is broken down into Quintets, Quartets and Trios making me imagine members leaving the stage after a few songs until at the end of the night you only see a classic jazz trio. Overall Glenn’s baritone sax playing is a thing of beauty with its rich, full tone guiding along the melody and the spacey B-3 organ bringing to mind the height of hip jazz. This is the type of music I’d expect to hear at a classy jazz club.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

The Sharp Things - Foxes & Hounds - CD
(Bar None Records) About 30 seconds into the first song the vocals reminded me a bit of Fish the former lead singer of the band Marillion. The music sounded like a lighter version of his style as well. This feeling was solidified the deeper I got into this CD. The songs all sounded like they written for a cool musical, which is how Marillion’s music sounds to me. The biggest difference is that while Marillion’s music with Fish had a dark and bitter sweet edge to it, while The Sharp Things music feels a bit lighter.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Shelflife - Ductworks - CD
(Public Eyesore Records) Ductworks is thirteen tracks worth of random musical sounds. The entire album reminds me of an orchestra warming up. This was not my style; in fact I don't know many non-drug users that would enjoy this.
-- Simi Mutant (2007)

Shelflife - Rheuma - CD
(Public Eyesore Records) This is one of those releases that is definitely not for everyone. It's basically experimental noise-scapes with guitars which fade in and out over top of an Erasurhead-like industrial whoosh. This is what I would imagine the soundtrack to be like for a stop motion experimental German film. And like expressionistic art (I'm thinking someone like Jackson Polack here) with this kind of music you either have it or you don't, and Shelf Life manages to pull it off.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Shelflife - Concerning the Absence of Floors - CD
(Public Eyesore Records) I knew a guy from the early '90s who mashed together various industrial noises and his synthesizer and put together a minimalist noise collage that was reminiscent of the industrial white noise at the beginning of the movie Erasurehead. He called his project Noise Coitus. This CD is similar. I wasn't too impressed with it then and I'm not impressed with it now.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Shift F7 - Crimson Diablo - CD
(SML Records) The music on this release has a darkness to it that reminds me of bands like Bauhaus when they were the standing for Goth. The vocalist has a deep Peter Murphy/David Bowie/Iggy Pop quality to his vocals at times, at other times the lyrics are sung in a hushed secretive tone. Most of the songs reminded me greatly of the band Wedding Present especially "Broken Parts" and "A Fool in Love." There is a brooding Cure-like quality on the song "Cure for the Pure", and "Straight to Hell" reminded me of Love & Rockets. This is another one of those CD's that I love more each time I listen to it, and I've been listening to it a lot.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

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

Shiner - Starless - CD
(Owned and Operated Records) Noisy alt rock that reminds but never exactly sounds like any useful reference point. I hear bits of Built to Spill, Polvo and others of their ilk in this but it has its own thing going. Some of the choruses sound pretty radio friendly. I generally prefer my existential angst backed by a more Stooges/Dead Boys type of band but I have always been, as the Third Bardo said "Five Years Ahead Of My Time" In summation I would say not good, not bad, just there.
-- Ryan (2005)

Shrimp Boat - Something Grand - CD
(Aum Fidelity) The music on this CD is simply awful. How awful? Let me just say that I remember in the early ‘90s when people said that The Frogs were the greatest band in Chicago. I went’ and saw them when they came to town. They turned out to not only be one of the worst bands I’ve ever saw, but assholes to boot. I’d rather go see the Frogs in concert again than have to listen to 3 CDs worth on the crap that was represented on this sampler of the band Shrimp Boat’s (I guess you would call it) music.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

The Showgoats - Lift Off - CD
(Mud Oyster Records) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Shrug - Shrug - CD
(Rock Records) Shrug has been a Dayton favorite for years and over the time they have continued to grow and evolve musically. Their latest change was the addition of a new bass player, Bryan, and a fourth member, Eric, who really fills out their sound onstage and adds a different style to Tod's already excellent guitar work and vocals. This is their first release in several years, but featured a few songs that they have been playing live for years and includes their older three piece lineup with Adam on bass before Bryan replaced him. One of my favorite songs on this release is "Little Trophy" due to the excellent line "I've paid my dues, I've paid my don'ts as well. I want some wills, the won'ts can go to hell.". Still every song on this release is excellent and a slight step up from 1998's Everything's Blowing Up Roses. For those who are unfamiliar with Shrug let me enlighten you to their sound. They have evolved to a point where they are unique and draw from a combination of folk, standard rock and a bit of jazz thrown in for good measure. Other than the rich, flowing melodies you are also treated to well crafted lyrics which are a times dark, but also very honest and fitting for the music. Currently Shrug is one of my favorite bands in the area and are always fun to see live. Hopefully, they will carry on for quite a while and get the notice that they truly deserve.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Mishka Shubaly - How To Make A Bad Situation Worse - CD
(Mishka Music) Mishka Shubaly sings folksy tales of woe with a drunken swagger vocal. On the tune "When I Was Young" Mishka's voice takes on a Crash Test Dummies deepness, while he emits a Tom Waits growl on "Fourth of July. The deepness to his vocals surfaces again and further helps accentuate the disparity on the tune "Kansas City Misery". Mishka's voice marries perfectly with the female singer on this duet, which is by far my favorite on this release. So pour yourself a glass a gin and put this CD on whenever you need accompaniment as you drown your sorrows.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Shuggie - What It Is...And How To Get It - CD
(Good Ink Records) This is one of those bands that I have a hard time reviewing. They are good, but I can't think of exactly what to say. I have listened to Shuggie for about a month now and I really like them. They aren't anything spectacular, however I do like them and enjoy having their music on. They have pretty standard rock sound to them, in some ways they remind me of early Black Crows with their heavy blues rock influence. All their songs are upbeat and most deal with relationships. Shuggie seem like they would be a great bar band or one to just kick back and listen to with friends around. Great if you like a straight rock band that doesn't sound dated.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Sick on the Bus - Punk Police/Suck on. - CD
(Go Kart Records) Punk rock attitude with a rock 'n' roll soul, Sick on the Bus delivers the goods on this release. At times the song structures reminded me of the defunct local band ColaVision, with the lyrics being pure Dave Graeter. Hop on the Bus.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sick Puppies - Dressed Up As Life - CD
(Virgin Records) Boy is this CD overflowing with teen angst or what. Sick Puppies cranks out a dozen heavy pop alternative tunes on this their debut CD. Most people know them for their “Free Hugs” video on You Tube which has a feel good quality about it. Most of the songs on this release are a bit harder music wise with guitar leading the way. While I can be appreciative of that whole “angry teen phase” that they focus on in many of their lyrics, I found it to be a tad too much on this release, especially on the tune “Asshole Dad” where the narrator comes off as a mentally abusive asshole in his own right. I guess in the end I enjoyed their lighter acoustical leaning tunes like “All the Same” a bit more. Still, the other tunes like “Cancer” and “Deliverance” are great to rock to as well. This is definitely worth the listen.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sig Transit - Gloria - CD
(Johann's Face Records) This is fun power pop with a surprise-great keys-synth and piano. Would sound great on any college radio station, especially "Pink Skies".
-- Regan (2001)

Sig Transit Gloria - 2>8>00 - CD
(Johanns Face Records) These guys sound quite a lot like the now defunct Knapsack who were one of my favorite late 90's bands. The have that great poppy punk sound along with a keyboard, that boarders on emo-core, but they don't seem to take themselves that seriously. Fun music to listen to and have a good time. This is one of the better releases I've heard recently.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Elaine Silver - The Art Of Peace - CD
(Elaine Silver Music) If you have ever skipped through channels on your television and came across an odd looking show on PBS called the Lawrence Welk Show where the folks dress in scary looking polyester suits and flowery dresses and sing in skinny microphones, then you might have a sense of what this CD is all about. Yeah, they need to cancel that show.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

SilveRoot - Full Measure - CD
(Silverado Records) Silveroot has a nice acoustic folk sound. The violin, banjo and guitars go together beautifully. The vocals aren't too bad either on a few of the tunes, on others they are a bit typical. While most of the songs retain a traditional folk sound, they do stretch things a bit. I really liked the distorted violin on the tune "Long Train", which helped add a bit of grit to the tune. The opening songs "Overland Road" and "Full Measure" are wonderful songs which quickly caught my interest. However, the deeper I got into this release the worse the lyrics got and that was a bit of a turn off for me. The political tune "No Revelation" comes off as a weak war protest song that's easily forgettable. The music remains wonderful throughout though, so maybe a different lyricist is the answer. Still, I would go see them live.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Keaton Simons - Currently - CD
(Maverick Records) Following the trend of popular artists like Jack Johnson, John Mayer and others Maverick Records has released Keaton Simons. This disc is full of decent blues rock on the light side which has been fairly popular recently. If you like your tunes mellow, folksy, soulful and down to earth then this disc is a sure thing.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

The Simple Carnival - Me and My Arrow - CD
(Sundrift Records) While listening to this 4-song EP, Alan Parsons kept popping into my head. Jeff Boller is the person behind this one-man band and his vocal and musical style has an Alan Parsons feel to them, which is to say they are both gentle and melodic. There are times while listening to this disc that I felt the addition of other musicians, especially in the harmonizing, would help to fully flesh out the sound and make it fuller. I'm thinking along the lines of a band like Jellyfish. Still, the title song on this EP is perfect the way it is. I'm looking forward to the full length release that comes out on 10/1/2008.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

The Simple Pleasure - Alive with Pleasure! - CD
(The Simple Pleasure) The Simple Pleasure fully immerse themselves into the very cheesy and very bad new wave synth '80s. All the songs on this release are synth driven with herky jerky vocals. While most of the songs are cringe worthy, there is something catchy about the tune "Were Under Control" despite the inclusion of that electronic drum sound that anyone who grew up in the '80s is familiar with. In fact I believe this song would have been a minor hit back in the day.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Simpler Machine - 2013 - CD
(Simpler Machine) In the late '80s early '90s when I was working at the local college radio station there was a couple of guys who had a late night metal show that played music from the most obscure and under the radar bands at the time. Simpler Machine would have fit perfectly into the mix. Their raw metal sound and slap you upside the head delivery greatly reminds me of the band Agony Column. My biggest complaint with Simpler Machine is that the lyrics sound like they were written by a high school kid who just discovered the word fuck. Think I'm overstating it? Here is a sampling of the song titles; "Let's Fuck in the Van", "She Likes to Fuck A lot", "5 Minute Fuck", "Ratfuck". I would say that the lyricist needs to either grow up or the band needs to get someone new to write the words to the tunes, because while the music is great the lyrics just make the songs suck.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sin in Space - Asteroid Band - CD
(Pandacide Records) This release said "File under: Indie Rock" on the cover and they were right. However, I'm not really jumping for joy. Yes, they are Indie Rock, but they are also boring. There seems to be potential in the vocals and the music, but it never seems to gel and turn into that something special.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Sin in Space - Asteriod Band - CD
(Sin in Space 214 Plymouth St Santa Cruz, CA 95060) The first track was OK, but the second "Hell Fire" was just hideous. However on the third song they seem to be hitting a Cupid Car Club style, with a touch of Brianiac and the Pixies thrown in for good measure. In other words I really don't know what to make of this band. Sometimes they hit and make very good unique songs, other times they try and fail miserably. If you liked Brainiac or Cupid Car Club I'd say to give this a try.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Sinombre - Curves of Sirens - CD
(Fire Code Core Records)Sinombre reminds me of the mellower moments of Slant 6. I would call them post-emo goth/indie rock, if that makes any sense at all. The songs sound dark and textured with a vague deconstructionist feel.

On their first track, "Thanks, Anyway" they have done what so many others have and noticed that a cello really adds so much to a band. On other songs they keep up the sound but the power lies just beneath the surface and rides a wave until it slowly smoothers you and leaves you worn but wanting more. "Chaos" is one of my favorites with its slow and steady buildup and haunting vocal style.
-- Grog Mutant (2004)

Angela Siracusa - Drawn to the Flame - CD
(Angela Siracusa) Formulaic country-pop songs with a female vocalist. If you like the current crop of female country stars then this should be on your want list.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)

Sissies - Look Back and Laugh - CD
(New Disorder Records) Snotty and sweet female punk rawk vocals done with a bare bones quality. Something that's fun to listen to every now and then, but not anything special to be in regular rotation.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sixer - Beautiful Trash - CD
(BYO Records) Good, fairly typical punk rock. They have the attitude and style, but nothing to separate them from the years of similar bands. At times they get a bit melodic, still it's nothing that gets me all excited.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Sixer - Saving Grace - CD
(TKO / Flat Records) With a healthy dose of punk rock aggression and bar band attitude, Sixer pumps out a solid 12-track CD. It's almost has me thinking that this is what the Sex Pistols would have sounded like if they formed in Texas.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sixx: A.M. - The Heroin Diaries - CD
(11-7 Recording Group) This is a CD that is meant as a companion disc to the book "Heroin Diaries" from Motley Crue bass player Nikki Sixx. For those of you expecting to hear that heavy Motley Crue sound, you're in for quite a surprise. This release is more about a recovering drug addict baring his soul. This release begins with the spoken word piece "X-mas in Hell" where Nikki talks about hitting rock bottom while shooting heroin on Christmas over an orchestrial-rock take on "The Christmas Song". There are similar tunes throughout the rest of the release.

There are the traditional rock songs as well. While most of them were a bit on the cheesy side, there were a couple that stood out. "Pray for Me" reminded me a bit of the band She Wants Revenge. "Dead Man's Ballet" which is about not wanting to die is another standout. The rest of the songs sound like music from a tragic rock opera, and while they do have deep meaning, they just aren't that catchy.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Noush Skangen - Palomino - CD
(Noush Skangen) There’s a naked chick on the cover with an acoustic guitar, of course I’m going to want to listen to this. The title is also the name of one of my favorite restaurants in Indianapolis, and how cool of a name is Noush. It sounds like a word that Jay would use in a Kevin Smith movie. Noush’s vocals have a Natalie Merchant angst quality to them, while the lyrics reminds me of the passion that Rhonda Everitt of Rhe and Pale Beneath the Blue injects into her more emotional and heartfelt songs. The songs are all excellent and “Skid” seems to be a good choice for the focus which they give it on this release. There are only two issues I have with this release. This release has only 4 original tunes (“Skid” is on here 3 times, once as a live cut and once on a live performance bonus DVD), and had me wanting to hear more, and while the bonus DVD with a live performance video and snapshots was nice, it wasn’t anything special. Since it seems more of a promotional device, I think the DVD should have contained more info on the artist. This is what Jewel did on her debut release and the results were pretty decent. Great EP, but I want more.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)

The Sketties - Up?!? Yes!! - CD
(The Sketties) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Skip-Dawg - We Will Rise - CD
(Skip-Dawg) I must say, Skip-Dawg has won me over with his lyrics and passion. I wasn't expecting much out of this disc when I saw it, since I figured it would be another white boy rapper braggin' on himself. But not only does he have talent, he actually has a story to tell. Skip-Dawg has great flow, tight beats and lyrics that tell something real.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sky Cries Mary - Small Town - CD
(HooDooh Music) Whenever I think of Sky Cries Mary, the band Cocteau Twins comes to mind as well. I think this is due to the atmospheric female vocals and that they both hit the college radio airwaves around the same time. Sky Cries Mary has a bit more of an edge to their music and the combo of the male and female vocals help give the songs more depth.

"Land of All" had me looking at the liner notes to see if John S. Hall from King Missile was a guest vocalist on the tune. They get their trip hop groove going on the song "I'm Always Home", which will help pacify those of you who are eagerly anticipating the new Portishead CD which I hear is in the works. My other favorites on this disc include "Small Town" and "Travel Light".
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Skywire - To Write on the Hearts of the Others - CD
(Skywire) Fast and smooth emo / scream-o with just a touch a glam. These guys remind me of a cross between Taking Back Sunday, Hawthorne Heights, My Chemical Romance and Kill Hannah. I think they have a great sound and lyrics except when they give ballads a shot, like on “Anger is one letter away from danger” which is just weak. Skywire really does shine when they do what they know best which is to craft powerful songs with a lot of melody and catchy hooks.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Melani L. Skybell - Just a Chase Away - CD
(Skybell) While I'm always a sucker for Jazzy female vocals, I was more than impressed with Melani's vocals on this release of originals in which she wrote the lyrics as well as the music. Her vocals are strong yet smooth. I'm sad to say that the same can't be said for the music. I don't feel that music did her voice justification. It just seemed weak compared to her bold vocal style. Part of the problem might be the arrangement of the songs, because I feel if the backing band had a bit more oomph in their playing (maybe along the lines of Combustible Edison) it would have helped the songs soar even higher, especially since the lyrics are wonderful as well. I would also suggest changing the style of the CD cover on the next release, because the one she has on this one made me think with was going to be a religious new-age disc, instead of the nice jazz one that it is.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

The Slackers - Live at Ernesto's - CD
(Epitaph / Hellcat Records) This is a live recording of the Slackers in Sittard, Netherlands. This captures two nights of shows and the live spirit of the Slackers...one of the best ska bands in the world. Some of my favorites are on here including "Married Girl", "Sarah", "I Still Love You", "Soldier" and "The Fried Chicken Song". If you like ska or just want some great music to make your body move, get this disc...and the rest of the Slackers releases because they rule.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Slainte Mhath - VA - CD
(Maple Music Recordings) www.slaintemhath.com This is a great band which I caught at the Milwaukee Irish fest in August. I had never heard of them before, but I was captured by their music and stage presense when I saw them...ok the fact that they have an extremely cute fiddle player didn't hurt matters. Anyway, this is their latest release and it features 14 Celtic songs with a modern twist. Many of their songs are taken from traditional Irish folk songs, but Slainte Mhath makes them their own. The only downside to this release is the lack of vocals. They have a bit of vocals on two songs, but the rest is purely instrumental. Apart from this, they are one now one of my favorite Celtic bands and played one of my favorite shows of the year.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Joshua Slamp - Sketches - CD
(Joshua Slamp) "In Review"
-- (2008)

The Slang - The Big Get Even - CD
(Champion of the Arts) These guys play decent college rock, as we called it back in the day. Just catchy rock that isn't too hard, lacks pretense and is just plain fun for when you need a break from the books. I could see these guys playing at about any campus pub or house party. The Slang's singer has a friendly, unique voice that plays great to their style and really sets them apart from other bands I've heard lately. I think if they were playing locally I'd go see them, maybe you should if they're in your area.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)

The Slants - Slanted Eyes, Slanted Hearts - CD
(The Slants) The Slants are an all Asian American band, which I mention because they use it to define themselves. They play a great fusion of post-punk, emocore and ‘80s style electronica dance. A few of the many bands that come to mind while listening to this great release are Joy Division, J-Church, XBXRX, Freezepop, Nation of Ulysses and Depeche Mode…but that just scratches the surface. The Slants are one of my favorite new bands this year with their excellent combination of fast driving beats, dark lyrics, male / female vocals and tasty hooks galore.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Slavemachine - Disfigured Consciousness - CD
(Reality Entertainment) If metal bands were people, then Slavemachine would be the demonic love child of Metallica and Rob Zombie. Nutritioned with hearty helpings of industrial grit and prone to Marilyn Masonic temper tantrums, this hell spawn is a metal monster to be reckoned with.
-- Mite Mutant (2004)

Sleeper Car - Love & Anxiety - CD
(Sleeper Car) Every song on the release has a bit of country-western twang to it, however so slight. But the songs I liked best and the ones where the country-western components were most prominent. "Lay It Down" is one such tune except instead of fiddle they have violin which works great on this tune. The overall feel of "Caliber Eyes" reminds me of Kasey Chambers' style of playing, and that's always a plus. I felt that the male vocals were a bit too nasally on the final tune "Follow", but still this is an overall good release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Slick Idiot - DickNity - CD
(Itchy Records / Cleopatra) This release brings back memories of the early '90s dance club scene. And why not? The members of this band is none other than En Esch and Guenter Schultz of KMFDM. The songs still have that KMFDM industrial dance feel about them, only lighter. Thoughts of the band Yello come to mind. The song "I Feel Fine" is the tune that stood out most to me. It's also the song that is closest to the KMFDM that I remember.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Slightly Stoopid - Closer to the Sun - CD
(Slightly Stoopid) A mix of reggea, smooth R&B and dub with a stoner feel. These guys have connections to Sublime which is easy to hear in most of their songs. I recall hearing their track "Somebody" in the past which is a lot like Sublime mixed with Fun Loivin' Criminals. Slightly Stoopid are a great laid back band to just chill with, even if you don't indulge in any sweetleaf.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Slow Gun Shogun - Eve Adam and the Apple - CD
(Slow Gun Shogun) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Sloppy MeatEaters - Shameless Self Promotion - CD
(Orange Peal Records) Sigh......More of this stuff! ok kids here's the deal, get "Raw Power" and "Young, Loud and Snotty", a couple months worth of beer and stay in the practice space till you sound like an unholy mix of the aforementioned records. Some kind of heinous drug habit would help as well. On the plus side it sounds like these guys spent a lot on recording. Must be nice to have rich parents!
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sloppy Meateaters - Forbidden Meat - CD
(Orange Peal Records) This is the best sloppy meataeters albums yet. Sloppy Meateaters are great!!!
-- Spencer (2001)

Slot - Fiver - CD
(Third Gear Records P.O. Box 251481 W. Bloomfield, MI 48325) Now this is odd. I opened this CD case and saw the Third Gear catalog for 1994...that's right 1994...I know I'm a bit behind on reviews but this is insane. I can't recall exactly when I recieved this, but it wasn't back then. Now onto the music since that's why were're here...at least that's my assupmtion. Slot has a noisy, lazy sound that is very mid 90's, actually the third track "Emma Peel" is upbeat but that's all. There's a lot of dark heavy background with noisy feedback and mummbled vocals. It's like a mix of the Buck Pets, Sonic Youth and Sponge but that isn't always a great thing.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Slough Feg - Hardworlder - CD
(Cruz Del Sur) Like Widow (reviewed elsewhere in this issue), Slough Feg is another band signed to the Italian record-label Cruz Del Sur. And like Widow, Slough Feg are playing melodic metal, but instead of being all that hair-metal-ish, Slough Feg take on a more raw attitude fueled by inspration from 70's rock/metal. Unfortunately, though, Slough Feg aren't doing anything that anybody absolutely needs to hear, meaning that there's plenty of metal out there and a lot of it is better than this. That said, this doesn't suck or anything, it's just quite a long way from actually being good either.
-- Hans Mutant (2007)

The Slow Signal Fade - Steady - CD
(In Music We Trust Records) Female fronted The Slow Signal Fade has a very hypnotizing pop rock feel to it, that reminds me of Plumb. The vocals are very similar to The Cranberries' Dolores O' Riordan. Most of the songs on this release were unique and overall pretty good. Occasionally, though, they became very repititious.

I also have to mention that the track entitled "TBA" had music with an amazing similarity to the Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams." Steady is good debut full length CDthat shows promise. Hopefully, this band can evolve and show what they can really do.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

Slowjets - Good Morning, Stars - CD
(Morphius) These guys have that mid to late 80's college rock feel complete with a casio keyboard on some songs. The singer reminds me of the guy from Great Plains and the music is a mellower mix of Dinosaur Jr., The Replacements and R.E.M. from the 80's. This really brings me back to the days when I first discovered college radio and was blown away. A great release from a band that seems to have come into the future.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

The Slumber Party Girls - Dance Revolution - CD
(Geffen Records) This is a Saturday morning television manufactured girl pop band whose target audience is 10-12 year-old girls. It’s your basic overproduced girl pop band music with songs about the sort of things that appeal to 10-12 year-old girls, which is apparent with song titles like “The Texting Song”, “Bubblegum” and “Eavesdroppin’.” Still, I do like that they do have songs that have a more positive and promote a strong self image for the bands target audience. This disc also includes the theme songs to The Slumber Party Girls and Dance Revolution television shows.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Small Brown Bike - Dead Reckoning - CD
(No Idea Records) The best thing I like about this slightly more punk than pop flavored band is how the bass stands out. It helps to give the tunes a heavy churning sound, while the subtleness of the guitar playing keeps things from sounding too dark. Yes sir.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Smart Brown Handbag - Fast Friends - CD
(Stone Garden) The singer in this band makes me think of Robyn Hitchcock but the band has a bit more of the mellowness and feel found in a band like Inspiral Carpets or even middle period R.E.M. I really like the lyrics and the personal nature of them that really pulls the listener in. This is one of this CD's that pull you in and carries you away into their world. Smart Brown Handbag make me think about past relationships and what went wrong, but it doesn't make me see them in a bad light. They are at once intense, mellow, thought provoking and emotional. A great disc by a great band.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

The Smiling Strangers - All The Way - CD
(QCGS Records) When this CD started out I thought it might be pretty decent. Then the vocals kicked in and it all seemed drab. The songs have a folky/hippy feel to them and are as appealing as a bowl full of plain tofu.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Keely Smith - Keely Swings Basie-Style - CD
(Concord Records) Keely Smith and her old time sultry voice swings through sixteen classics. I think that Keely is the female equivalent of old blue eyes and she pulls it off with style and grace. Some of the classics on this release are "April in Paris", "How Sweet it is", "Lover", "Love for Sale", "Can't Take My Eyes off of You" and " Take the 'A' Train". The band backing her up is top notch and the whole package just screams Style. If you want something cool and familiar then grab a martini and put on Keely.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Melvin Smith - Portrait - CD
(Melvin Smith Music) On this disc, saxiphonist / composer, Melvin Smith plays gospel infused jazz. He is very talented as are the rest of his band, but this just doesn't reach me. I'm sure if you enjoy and appreciate good jazz, you would love this release. For me it's there, it's good but it isn't going to get played anymore.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Zak Smith - An Endless Doubt - CD
(Zak Smith) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Bethany Smith Staelens - The Big Band Theory - CD
(Kotteb Music) "In Review"
-- (2009)

The Smittens - The Coolest Thing About Love - CD
(HHBTM Records) Yay, another release from Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records. I think I’ve liked 99% of the releases they’ve put out and the Smittens are no exception. If you were to combine the fun and whimsy of Baby Calendar with the variations and range of The New Pornographers you’d have a band like the Smittens. Tons of great melodic hooks and sweet boi / grrl vocals with peppy guitars, keyboards and everything else I love about cuddlecore / tweepop. As a bonus the have a song called “Gumdrops” with lyrics “I really like you, my new librarian” which I played for my favorite librarian and she loved it! If I was 20 again and traveling with my band, this is what I’d want to be playing…
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Michael Smolens Sextet + 4 - VQS - CD
This release was recorded in 1992 and released in 1994. I have no idea who Vivian Quinn Sayles is, but she sure does compose some wonderful rainy day jazz. The recording was done live and when listening to it I felt like I was there in the room. This is one of the best 'listening music' releases that we received for this issue of MRZ.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Smooth Citizen - Shadows Of The Fading Light - CD
(Lazy Zeb Records) Smooth Citizen is a female/male jazz-like combo that likes to put their spin on various rock tunes. The results are less than spectacular. Quite a bit less. The vocals lack power and the guitar playing is just boring. This is just a lackluster release, that's all there is to it.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Rip Smops - Life is Sad - CD
(Rip Smops) "In Review"
-- (2008)

SNFU - The Ping Pong EP - CD
(Alternative Tentacles Records) Definitely an appropriate title: this five song release opens and closes with live ping pong playing a la Beastie Boys on "Paul's Boutique". SNFU sounds the same as usual: pretty good power punk, no big surprises. I must concur with the title of the final track, 'Quentin Tarantino Can't Act!'--good job boys!
-- Lizi 'BratBabyMonkey' (2001)

Dee Snider - Never Let the Bastards Wear You Down - CD
(Koch Records) Mr. Snider said that this would be his last CD and that he would be exiting the music business. I think that he should have gotten out sooner.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Todd Snider - The Devil You Know - CD
(Universal Records) Todd works his Jerry Lee Lewis mojo on the opening tune "If Tomorrow Never Comes," and things just get better from here. Todd always seems to have a few songs on every release, which help to exhibit his wry sense of humor. "You Got Away with It (A Tale of Two Fraternity Brothers)," which is a sly stab at George W. Bush, is one of those tunes. The excellent "Carla" with lyrics like "Leaving me was one thing Carla. Why'd you have to leave so slow?" is another. A few of my other favorite tunes are "Highland Street Incident" which is one of those songs that gets stuck in your head. "The Wild Mercury", a tale of Bob Dylan and Phil Ochs and "Unbreakable" sounds like a really cool Pixies cover.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Snot - Snot Alive! - CD
(Hip-O / Universal Records) I never had heard of Snot until after the singer Lynn Strait died. So due to all the press and the tribute CD I was really wanting to see what all the noise was about. Well, I don't know if it's due to this being a live disc but they really aren't anything special. His vocals are all over the place and most of the songs have a very disjointed feel to them. I could be that they hadn't quite found themselves live, or it could be that they just weren't that great of a band and the labels capitalized on his demise and made themselves some money. I can't see any of their songs getting radio airplay...not that it's a bad thing, just that they seem to have a limited appeal. I think they main reason they seemed to be talked about by other bands was probably because they were good guys. Other bands liked them and wanted to help them due to their lack of big egos.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Snow Machine - Snow Machine - CD
(Daemon Records) Listening to this release is like having an ice cream truck break down in front of your house and they're giving away free ice cream. Sure the sweet goodness would be good at first, but too much would make you a bit queasy after awhile. And the music is catchy at first but the repetitiveness of it would drive you nuts in the end.
-- Mite Mutant (2005)

So L'il - Dear Kathy, - CD
(Goodbye Better) An experimental mess. The CD starts off good enough with catchy guitar, but then the vo-oh-oh-ocals kick in and things go downhill from there. The songs are half-hearted sound collages that fail to impress. The longer I listened to it, the more annoyed I got with the music.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Soft Cell - The Very Best of Soft Cell - CD
(Universal Records) Most people know Soft Cell from their big hit "Tainted Love / Where Did Our Love Go?". However, though it is a great song it is not really a good representation of the band. Listing to this best of disc you get to hear the "real" Soft Cell and how much they sound like New Order and bands of that ilk. Many songs are pretty dark and have a gothic and cynical tone to them, but are still based in pop if only slightly. One thing I never realized is that Soft Cell was a duo...who'd a thunk it?
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Soft War - Soft War - CD
(Soft War) You know, after listening to this CD in full I somehow feel like the band owes me money for pain and suffering.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)

Joe Soko - Floss Like a Beast - CD
(Fuzzy Planet) I think the subtitle on this release sums this release up best; a collection of incredible strange folk songs. Joe Soko is like the poor man's Haywood Banks in that his songs are quirky and slightly amusing, but not gut busting. But still how can you not laugh at song titles like "Yum! Yum! Yum! (and I am insane)" and "My Nuts are on Fire".
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Solarcade - Songs for the Gathering - CD
(A&I Records) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Solberg, James - The Hand You're Dealt - CD
(Ruf Records) Filled with great soulful blues, this release just digs right into your spirit and fills you with the sound of heartache. James Solberg's guitar work shines bright on this CD. On the tune "Still Called the Blues", he is joined by the great Luther Allison. This is well worth checking out.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Solefald - Pills Against the Ageless Ills - CD
Well, usually John reviews most of the black metal but I gave this a try. This is a concept album, which usually are excellent (The Who's Quadrophenia or Queensryche's Operation Mindcrime) or they suck hard. Solefald's seems to be a good one, but I have no lyrics and only a vauge interest in the music. They alternate between low growling and higher pitched singing, not quite King Diamond operetics, but still high. The story itself involves two brothers Pornographer Cain and Philosopher Fuck, which should give you a basic idea of the storyline. Overall they keep things interesting and I would suggest this release to anybody into black metal or even progressive metal.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Lenny Solomon Band - Maybe Today - CD
(Solomon Band) This disc really surprised me. Looking at the cover I expected a blues band that had been relegated to playing bars for a few decades and finally decided to make a CD. (This has been the case way too many times). How mistaken I was, the Lenny Solomon Band are a really tight and talented folk rock band. Lenny has a knack for lyrics and writing a guitar riff that draws a listener in. The lead track started off slow and I wasn't expecting much until I heard the title track "Maybe Today". This song sounded like any great folk song written in the early '70s, at once familiar and emotionally connecting. A few songs get a bit too far into country territory for my tastes, but that is typical of the genre. One of the best songs is the hilarious "Let's Go To Mar's" sung from the point of view of Georgie Bush. Most of the other songs are introspective in nature and very well thought out. A wonderful release from a band that really deserves a close listen.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Somehow Still Alive - Afterall - CD
(Somehow Still Alive) Musically they jump around sounding like early Suicidal Tendencies, P.O.D. and Puddle of Mudd, but their vocalist has a smoother voice almost like pop metal. The music isn’t anything new or special, but if you like the aforementioned bands then you will get into Somehow Still Alive.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Son Of The Velvet Rat - By My Side - CD
(Star Fish Records) A line from a Leonard Cohen poem begins “I heard of a man, who says words so beautifully, that if he only speaks their name, women give themselves to him.” Well, singer-songwriter, Georg Altziebler is kind of like that, except the sadness in which he sings will make anyone listening to him want to cry. This is a guy who can do a cover of Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and make it even bleaker. Recording under the name Son of the Velvet Rat, Altziebler has a song arrangement, writing style and delivery that’s equal parts Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen and Nick Drake. From the opening strums of the guitar on “Leaving You” I had the feeling that I was immediately put into a gloomy mood. When I got to the second song “Play a Ghost Note on My Soul”, I just felt empty, and for this song that is a compliment. The song is just so beautifully sad, it makes every other sad song out there sound like “Walking on Sunshine” in comparison. He’s makes Goth bands sound like Dixieland.

There isn’t one bad song on this release. There’s also not one happy song. Yeah, a song might have a positive message, but the way he performs them is just heartrending. If you want a good cry, this wonderful release is for you.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Sona - Man In The Mirror - CD
(Imperial Records) Sona has rhymes, flow and great beats and on this two song sampler (two versions each) he does what he can to impress. While I can sense the talent his style isn't mine and all I can really say is that if you like flowing rap with great beats then check out Sona for something fresh and new.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Heather Song - Yo, It's Christmas! - CD
(Heather Song) I needed some new Christmas music and this disc seemed like it might fit the bill. My wife, who loves Christmas music in all its flavors, was really looking forward to hearing this disc. During the first track "Merry Christmas" she told me to hold back judgment, while there was the sounds of a family gathering, off-key vocals and a casio keyboard emanating from my speakers. Maybe it's just a quirky type of intro she says. Well, by the third track all I could say was "At least this song doesn't suck 100%". I think this has to be my least favorite Christmas disc ever and that's saying quite a bit. I like alternate versions of holiday songs, I like quirky, I like fun…but I don't like this.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Sonic Bliss - Loved to Death - CD
(Sonic Bliss) You can almost guess this is going to be heavy metal rock just from the name of the band. The sound seems like a combo of Queensryche and the Trans Siberian Orchestra for the most part. It looks like they are going the Queensryche concept direction with this release as they refer to the song titles as chapters. Not a bad CD really, even though it does have that late ‘80s/early ‘90s metal sound. “Far Cry” is a catchy tune, but by far my favorite on this release is “Dead Sea of Love (Pirate Song)”. It has a rock opera bigness to it that just gets you rockin’. There is a bonus track of the band making the tune “Superstition” their own by giving it just the right amount of metal makeover, while still keeping the bluesiness of the tune intact. Worth checking out.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)

Sonic Youth - Sonic Youth - CD
(Universal Chronicles) When it comes to Sonic Youth, I either like an album or I don't care for it. This one is in the "freakin' love it" end of the spectrum. This is a re-release of their debut album, as well as some tasty nuggets of live recordings from 1981. The disc opens with the guitar sound that we've all come to know and love from this unique band.

Kim Gordon's vocals on the catchy tune "I Dreamed I Dream" are instantly recognizable, because no one has a vocal style quite like hers. The guitar sound returns with a world music percusion sound on "She is Not Alone," with David Byrne style vocals helping to give the piece it's hypnotic feel.

I wasn't aware I was into the live stuff until I heard clapping in the background at the end of the song "Hard Work." The playing on the live recordings helped solidify in my mind how good this band really is. The CD is truely a special treat for any Sonic Youth fan.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Sonic Youth - Daydream Nation - 2CD
(Universal Records) While Daydream Nation isn't my favorite Sonic Youth album (that distinction goes to Goo) it ranks up in the top five. What makes this release extra special is disc two which contains live versions of the tunes from the original album as well as a few bonus cover tunes. Starting out with one of their best songs "Teen Age Riot", disc one shows Sonic Youth at their distorted best. Disc one ends with the home demo bonus cut "Eric's Trip".

Disc two, like I said, is the real treat of this Deluxe Edition. The tunes just seem more powerful when you listen to them performed live. The bonus cover tunes, including "Within You Without You" by the Beatles and "Touch Me I'm Sick". Yeah, I highly recommend this one.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sons of the Addicted - Fractal World - CD
(Phantasma Music) "In Review"
-- (2009)

The Sons of the Pioneers - The Best of - CD
(Universal Records) Any of you that are fans of the Coen Brother's movie Raising Arizona are already familiar with the music of The Sons of the Pioneers. The distinctive sound of three yodeling men that is constantly heard throughout the movie starts off this greatest hits CD as part of the song "Way Out There". The Sons of the Pioneers led by Leonard Slye (aka Roy Rogers) established the Western Vocal Harmony sound. They recorded over a period of twenty years and among the 21 hits on this release are a few of my favorites including "Tumbling Tumbleweeds", "Cool Water" and "Riders in the Sky". This is one of those releases where the title of the CD is right on.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

The Sort - Resentment, Despair, & Other Amusements - CD
(Black Bag Records) I just finished reading Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, so the Alice themed CD cover for this release caught my eye right away. The music doesn't disappoint either. The songs are guitar driven with punchy female vocals. It's a bit had to describe overall. I want to say it's alternative-pop with a hard rock feel, especially with the guitarist (just check out the little guitar twills on "Mistletoe" or the rocking out on "Not Impossible" and you will know what I mean). Just about every tune is a winner, which is a rarity for most of the releases that come out nowadays. "Found" is catchy with the male vocals reminding me of the backing vocalist for System of a Down. "Minus One", "Apology in G Minor", "Thursday" . all great.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

SOS - SOS - CD
(3:16 Productions) SOS is a hard rockin' group that takes me back my early days of seeing bar bands. The music is okay to drink to while playing pool, but nothing that really grabs you. The songs are guitar driven with vocals that make every word seem like it has deep meaning. I found many of the 19 tunes on this release starting to sound the same, which is sometimes the case when bands try to pack a CD with too many songs.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

SOS - A Guide To Better Living - CD
(3:16 Productions) There are actually two bands on this release. One has that late ‘80s hard rock bar band sound. While the vocals here have improved since their last outing on this type of music, the songs just sound dated. The other part of SOS is a kick ass punk ensemble. This is where the band really shines and I would suggest that they focus more on that part of their makeup. “Everything Must Go,” “Scenic Route,” “Hopeless” and “Counsel to the Crown” are in your face glorious punk hard rock. They even get in a little into waltzing stage music with the opening to the tune “Venice” which transforms into more glorious punk. So while I like the punk half of SOS, I could do without the Hard Rock part of the band. Hopefully they will chose the former in their future endeavors.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

SOS - Adult Situations - CD
(SOS) "In Review"
-- (2009)

Soul Purpose - Needful Things - CD
(Ruff Doggy Records) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Soulfood - Wingmakers: Chambers 11-17 - CD
(Soulfood Music) Love it, love it, love it, love it, love it. This awesome instrumental/world/ethereal CD kicked my butt. The different tracks on this release combine ambient, pop, electronica and hip hop beats with traditional sounds and chants and is reminiscent to the tunes that were on the Baraka movie soundtrack. To boot, there is also a multimedia treat contained on this CD, featuring outtakes from an extreme IMAX movie that features some of the music on this release. And just when you think there's no more, included on the CD is a killer screen saver that I put on my computer and get comments on whenever someone is at my house.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Soulful Behavior - Mixed by DJ Addiction - 2CD
(Run Recordings) This is a great two CD set full of great electronica / techno tracks. With this set you all you need to have a rave in your house is a CD player, some people and a great sound system... The songs that are mixed seem to be based in R&B with leanings in the realm of electronica. I think I'll let Mite review this too since he has a better background in this area...look for his review soon.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Space March - Without This You Can Never Change - CD
(Death by Karaoke) This is what it would've sounded back in the '80s if ABC and Erasure got together to do an album. This CD explodes right out of the gate with the tune, well, uh "About to Explode". It has the dancey synth goodness of any Erasure hit with a vocal delivery that's dead on for a Martin Fry of ABC with a cold. In fact "Canadian Girl" sounds like a straight up ABC tune. While Space March does infuse some modern electronica into their songs (I can hear a bit of Daft Punk robot screeches on the tune "Nothing Else") for the most part their synth is securely footed in the '80s. While the last two songs are a bit weak, overall this CD is pretty damn good.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Donita Sparks + The Stellar Moments - Transmiticate - CD
(Donita Sparks) Yes, it's the same Donita Sparks of the hard rocking 90s grrl band L7. Listening to these tracks I'd swear L7 never went away and can make the assumption that she was the main force of the group. Most of the tracks have that slow, heavy growling sound like "Pretend We're Dead" and other great L7 tracks of old. But if you're not really into that heavy grunge ala The Melvins or Soundgarden then you won't get this. It's hard to realize that music from my youth is now having a revival and damn if it doesn't sound dated. If you miss true grunge from the 90s and all that flannel then grab this disc and hit the nearest mosh pit.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sam Sparro - Black & Gold - CD
(Modusvivendimusic) This release has a nice little '80s R&B synth thing going on. The beats have the right amount of funkiness that gets your body moving and the robotic sound of the vocals on the opening track "Sam Sparro" took me back to my high school days. "Black & Gold" sounds like a song that Knarles Barkley would do, or should do. Things keep rolling along with the tune "Sick", and while "Cottonmouth" is a bit too R&B pop for my taste, I could see it becoming a bona fide hit. This type of music usually isn't my thing, but I have to say that this is one well-done CD and with the right publicity (because the music is already great) I can see this band going places.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Speed of Life - Catalyst - CD
(Active Soundz) Whoa, a lot of production on this disc. The release starts off with a depth that can only be achieved in a studio. Speed of Life has a smooth adult contemporary rock sound to them and uses a combination of musical skill and engineering to make themselves honey for the ears. Honey is always, but if you have too much it makes you a bit sick. That's the feeling I had after going through the release a second time. I find that while I like the songs and it's fine in the background there isn't anything captivating enough in the music to grab my attention. A great disc for the background though.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Speedealer - Second Sight - CD
(Palm Pictures) Speedealer used to be called REO Speedealer until somebody from REO Speedwagon threatened to sue them. Why am I bothering to relate this to you? Well, because it's the most interesting thing about this band. The music is very 80's metal like Motorhead meets Spinal Tap. So in a way it's cool, but it's more like a joke that was taken too far and is now just stupid and annoying.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Lesley Spencer - Moments Musicaux - CD
(Gabriella Music) Lesley is an amazing pianist who has the ability to write songs that are easily accessible, memorable, catchy and yet still sophisticated. This is her tenth release and is often heard on NPR programs as background or between stories. One of my favorite tracks is her "Ode to Harry Potter" which has some very John Williams' passages. Lesley has had music featured in a few documentaries, but I could see her music easily being used in any number of major productions. If you are looking for some great background music, then this is spot on.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

SPF1000 - Witch Hunt- CD
(Dark Future Music)

Spiraling - Time Travel Made Easy - CD
(Dancing Pawn Music) This is a concept CD with a nice melodic pop-alternative sound. The songs come off like they were conceived and performed by a collaboration of Ben Folds and Death Cab for Cutie for a Donnie Darko sequel. “The Future” pretty much starts off this release and immediately gets your toes a’tappin’. The harmonies are nice on “The Concept of the Quantum-Mechanical Bodymind Has Sparked a Great Idea”, while the song “Enemy” has me thinking of the movie “Moulin Rouge”. This is a release I can really get into.
-- Mite Mutant (2009)

Spiv - Everybody's a Rock Star Tonight - CD
(POP Sweatshop) Runs the gambit-from pop/punk to electronic/rap on this 4-song EP. If SPIV gave their lyrics as much attention as they do the music, this would be a killer product.
-- Regan (2001)

Split Sense - Purify - CD
(Split Sense) This melodic rock band sounds like it's influence comes from Staind with the addition of the annoying screaming of Linkin Park. On occasion the vocals actually sound good, but when Jason (lead vocalist) tries to yell-sing it sounds like he has too much phlegm in his throat. Not enjoyable.

However, minus the phlegm vocals, SplitSense has complete potential to make a living from their music.
-- Simi Mutant (2006)

The Spoon Benders - Resurrecting the Giants - CD
(The Spoon Benders) The Spoon Benders for the most part have a mellow blues-funk pop sound. They get things off to a great start with the catchy little ditty "Making My Name." Another nice tune is "Another Good Hook" which is infectiously catchy and just has a nice groove throughout. However, my favorite tune on the release is "I Fell Out of the Van This Morning" which sounds like it could have been written by Jack White with it's distinctive Jack White blues guitar riffing and delivery. Pretty good release.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Jason Spooner - The Flame You Follow - CD
(Jason Spooner) Jason Spooner has a slight smokey voice that goes perfectly with his catchy acoustic guitar folk sound. The opening tune "Black & Blue" reminded me a bit of singer-songwriter Lack, while the next tune "All That We Know" he has a bit of Paul Simon in his vocal style. The title tune "The Flame You Follow" reminded me a bit too much of James Blunt (which I'm sick of due to his overexposure), but Jason redeems himself on the funky tune "Fight the Fire". Overall, one solid release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Spring Heel Jack - Amassed- CD
(Thirsty Ear Recordings) When I started listening to this CD, I thought it was something I might like. It was a freaky kind of improvisational jazz that one might expect to hear on a David Lynch movie soundtrack, or as part of a Dalian nightmare. However, after three minutes into the release, I got the feeling that the rest of the tunes were going to be exactly the same. God I hate being right. The visual equivalent to the music on this CD would probably be random flashing images on a screen. It catches your interest and seems cool for the first few minutes, but after awhile it just gets annoying.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Spring Heel Jack - Disappeared - CD
(Thirsty Ear) A great CD full of experimental electronic grooves that manage to infuse themselves into your brain. At times the music takes a more experimental feel which is always a plus in my book. I like bands who not only stand on the edge, but who dare to leap into the abyss. Spring Heel Jack is one of those bands.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Springfields - The Springfields - CD
(VMS Records) It's a punk sound that I have heard too many times now, and it's on every song. The one thing that does make this band stand out is the immature lyrics that seems like they were written by a group of masturbating monkeys hurling their feces at each other.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Sprung Monkey - Get a Taste - CD
(Redline Entertainment P.O. Box 9312 Minneapolis, MN 55440) Reminiscent of the pop punk bands that initially drew me into the underground music community. Sprung Monkey is a welcome addition to my music collection. The music is solid and the vocals are the tops. This is one that I highly recommend.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Square Tape - Squaretape - CD
(Squaretape) This release starts off with the tune “The Wall’s Gonna Break You Down,” a syth-infused disco beat with dancy falsetto male vocals, all which give this song a fun dance floor feel. “Standing Offer” has a saucy alternative lounge groove going on, while the pulsating bass lends a creepy feel to my fave on this release, “Ragdoll” While most of the release is dancy, Squaretape end this release on an acoustical note with the ditty, “Shoshana”. This is just a fun listen.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Squeeze - Singles 45's and Under - CD
(Universal Music Company) Before I listened to this CD my only exposure to Squeeze was the few hits made popular on MTv, most notably "Tempted" and "Black Coffee in Bed" and to a lesser extent "Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)". This release opened my ears to the diverse new wave pop side of Squeeze. "Cool for Cats" and "Take Me I'm Yours" are gems that stand right up there with the hits I was familiar with. This is a release that the more I listen to it the more I like it. This is a perfect example of good '80s music.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Squirrel Nut Zippers - Bedlam Ballroom - CD
(Mammoth Records) This is another interesting release from the Zippers. You get thirteen songs that toss swing, rock, folk, jazz, blues, country and bluegrass into the mix to have a very original sound that's fun to dance to. While most bands in the swing vein seem to have disappeared it's good to see the SNZ still going strong.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

SRi - SRi - CD
(Bruised Fruit Promotions) This is a release that definitely lacks focus. The first tune "Edge of the World" is a hard rock guitar jam instrumental that is mixed very low. While it's not bad, it's just not my kind of thing. It's almost as if it's one of those tunes that's public domain and you can find it playing in the background of a local cable show. The second song "Rose of June" is a quiet piano piece. They decide to go the heavy blues route on "Puck" the third and final tune on the release. The weak Stevie Nicks inspired vocals are low in the mix and the repetitive lyrics are drowned out by the guitar playing. Since this is but a sampler of the entire album, I'm pretty sure I don't want to listen to the whole thing.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

SSM - Szymanski Shettler Morris - CD
(Alive Records) SSM is a hard rockin' band that loves to use layers of distortion in their music, so much in fact that just about every songs end up being a muffled ball of fuzz. There are times where they do shine. "2012" has a psychedelic rock Milo Binder feel to it, while "Viking's daughter" sounds like the Hives doing a Beck cover. Another nice song, which I would have enjoyed much better if it wasn't for the distortion is "Dinosaur", which has a nice Beatle's tinged bridge. Overall, I say the music isn't bad, but the production is. Next time cut back on the distortion.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Eric St-Cyr - The Media Is The Message- CD
(Eric St-Cyr) Eric engineered, produced, wrote and performed all the instruments on this release, and boy can you tell. Not to say that this was really horrible, it's just not that good either. Eric's music is basic singer-songwriter with drums. His vocals aren't that strong and the drums are basic. This is someone I would expect would be a regular at open-mic night in Anytown, USA.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

STB - Swerve - CD
(Elbo Records) I believe that this is the third STB (Sonia Totlow Band) release that I've reviewed. Each release keeps getting better, and they keep growing as a band. Three bands come to mind while listening to this release, the first is Siouxsie and the Banchees ,the second is Sonic Youth when Kim Gordon is singing and finally there is Concrete Blonde. I think that STB have elments of all three of these bands and have melded it into their own unique sound.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Stagger Stagger Crawl - Deju Vu Ultraman - CD
(Stagger Stagger Crawl) I love the name of this band. I wish I could say the same for their music. They're decent enough at playing; the music just lacks any feeling. It sounds like a group of high school aged guys playing in their first band. The male vocals are basic and the lyrics are nothing special. This is the kind of music where their friends may dig it, but few others will.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

The Standard - The Standard - CD
(Barbaric Records) Indie. Pop. Angry, distorted guitars. Vocals remind me of Adam Duritz or some old European guy from the 80s, like YES or something.
-- Regan (2001)

Standish Arms - There's A Distinct Possibility That I've Never Woken Up - CD
(Standish Arms) "In Review"
-- (2009)

The Stanley Brothers - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Records) Ever since the soundtrack to O Brother, Where Art Thou became a big hit, interest in old-time bluegrass music has grown.. All of the tracks on this release were recorded in the '50s and have that nice one room straight to tape studio sound to them. (yes kids, low-fi was around much longer than GBV) The music on this CD reminds me of a time when the musicians didn't need a million dollars worth of processors, effects and digital equipment to sound good. This was because they were good on their own. They choose to let their skills as players, singers and songwriters to make their music shine. Yet another great release from the folks at Universal records which will be a welcomed addition to any music collection.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

StanleyLucasRevolution - Greatest Hits - CD
(Stroboscopic) Yeah the synth based songs on this *ahem* greatest hits release might be diverse, but in the end I feel like I just wasted a bit over 51 minutes listening to this release.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Star Bag - Star Bag - CD
(Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records) Many of the tunes on this release have an early alternative sound that was heard on college radio throughout the country in the late '80s early '90s. This CD transported me back to a time when music didn't suck. The songs are catchy with slight pop undertones, they actually have lyrics that you want to listen to and the singer actually knows how to sing. The mixture of flavors represented in the songs make this a release worth getting.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Alex Statan - Go Big or Go Home - CD
(Alex Statan) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Stealing Jane - Say Something - CD
(Stealing Jane) Poppy jazz laced rock with a slight taste of the 80s spread liberally throughout the tracks. Overall Stealing Jane is an insanely catchy and danceable band being held back by sub-par lyrics. The musicianship on the disc is excellent and I really like the blend of styles, not groundbreaking just a nice blending of rock, jazz, pop and Latin. I really like the horns (ala Spoon) and the counter melodies of the bass guitar. Stealing Jane has a very broad based appeal and could easily have a huge following. A nice debut by a talented young band. Now to work on those lyrics.
-- Grog Mutant (2009)

Steely Dan - The Definitive Collection - CD
(Universal Records) Steely Dan is one of those bands that I feel defines the 70's. Kind of funky, kind of mellow, kind of hip, kind of stoner, kind of rock and very catchy. I think of movies based in the '70s when I listen to this disc since their music is so quintessential of the period. They have always been one of my guilty pleasures, even if their solos do go on a bit long in my opinion. A great meeting of rock and jazz-fusion, with very unique vocals and intelligent lyrics.

This is better than most definitive collections, since I've heard just about every song on the disc and I can't think of any songs that are missing. You get classics like "Do It Again", "Dirty Work", "Reelin' In The Years", "Rikki Don't Lose That Number", "Kid Charlemagne", "Peg" and "Hey Nineteen", plus a host of others. If you like classic '70s music than this is a must.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Fred Stein - Pizza & Ice Cream - CD
(Go For Broke Records) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Stereomud - Perfect Self - CD
(Columbia) This release features the song "Pain" which has been getting quite a bit of play on the Clearchannel stations. These guys are a little bit Alice in Chains, a bit White Zombie and very much 80's metal hard rock. If they aren't playing Ozzfest they really should. While "Pain" is the most radio friendly on this disk, if you like that song you should dig the whole set.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Stereo Total - Monokini - CD
(Kill Rock Stars) Stereo Total is back with more of their lo-fi retro trilingual pop songs. I find this band amazingly interesting and very sexy. I think a large part of that is their use of English, French and German sometimes mixing up more than one in the same song. Once again six of the twenty songs are covers, but I couldn't care in the least. This band is great and now I am a fan. True hipsters in every sense of the slang, this band is a romantic look at the 60's beatnick and making it a reality in today's world.
-- Grog Mutant (2005)

Stereo Total - This is SissiListening! - CD
(Kill Rock Stars) This brings to mind the movies BackBeat and That Thing You Do with that early 60's rock feel and sound. Seven of the twenty songs on this disc are covers, but either I haven't heard them or they are so different you can't really tell except for the lyrics, like on "Get Down Tonight".

If you're into lo-fi and very retro, then this is your Holy Grail. Everything has such a classic sound and feel it's hard to believe. Almost every song is sung in French or German which gives it such a nice alluring European, sexy sound. Near the lyrics there are some briefs regarding the songs in English and most are sexy in that early 60's hipster sort of way, which is the whole theme of this band. One of my favorite things is the name of the bass player, Izanogood. Well that and the fact that Alex Chilton guests on two songs. While you're thinking about it, head over to the very interesting and highly recommended website.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Sterling - Everest Eyes - 7"
(Beggars Banquet) Sterling has a solid alternative pop sound with male vocals, which have a British tilt to them. Both of the songs on this release “Everest Eyes” and “The Teacher” are catchy and remind me of the late ‘80s college radio days before there was such a thing as alternative music. This release begs for multiple plays on your turntable.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Peter Sterling - The Sands of Time - CD
(Harp Magic) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Sterling Y - Ten Comes Twice - CD
(SterlingY) Sterling Y has a great classic rock sound with the rock sensibilities of Tesla with a taste of a Black Crows blues groove. All of the elements align perfectly on this release. The music is solid and the lyrics and vocals are terrific. Of the few bands getting back to that good ol' solid rock sound, Sterling Y is one of the bands at the top of the pile. Go ahead and pick up this release and hear for yourself.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Cat Stevens - Footsteps in the Dark - CD
(Universal Records)

Cat Stevens - Chronicles - 3CD
(Universal Records) Cat Stevens is one of those performers who has a very distinctive sound. You can usually tell a Cat Stevens song by the first few chords, and once his vocals kick in all suspicions are confirmed. I like to refer to it as troubadour folk. This is a collect of three classic CDs. There are no remixes or bonus tracks here, because each of these disc stand very well on their own. Mona Bone Jakon contains the tunes “I Think I See the Light,” “Trouble,” and “Katmandu.” Tea for the Tillerman has “Where Do the Children Play?,” as well as the title cut. The third release, Teaser and the Firecat, contains the great tunes “The Wind,” “Rubylove,” “Moonshadow,” and “Peace Train”. A top notch box set.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Stevens, Cat - Mona Bone Jakon - CD
(Universal - Island Records) Believe it or not, I've really liked a lot of Cat Stevens' stuff since I was in High School. Someone showed me the classic dark comedy flick Harold and Maude in which all the music is by Cat Stevens, and I really loved it. Three of the songs from this album were in that film: "I Think I See The Light", "Trouble", (my favorite of the 3) and "I Wish, I Wish". These are actually some of the best of what's on this album, although there a few other gems I'd never heard before as well, such as "Time", "Fill My Eyes", and "Katmandu". I've heard better albums by Cat Stevens, but this one isn't bad. There's a lot of varied instrumentation throughout and it's good music to relax to.
-- Tom CoreKill (2001)

Brett Ryan Stewart - Necessary Lies - CD
(Brett Ryan Stewart) The music on this release firmly grabs you by the noggin', puts you in a semi-sleeper hold and doesn't let go for 35 minutes. Brett Ryan Stewart has a hushed acoustical singer-songwriter sound that can be likened to other such artists like James Blunt. While the guitar playing is subtle and the vocals are hypnotic, there's something about the songs that demand your attention. Just don't listen to this while driving late at night or operating heavy machinery, since the songs due put one in a mellow state of consciousness.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Rod Stewart - Reason to Believe: The Complete Mercury Studio Recordings - 3CD
(Mercury Records) The release contains the complete recordings that Rod Stewart made for Mercury Records between 1969 and 1974. This is one amazing collection and that's saying a lot since the only song that I am strongly familiar with on this release is "Maggie May".

Most of the tunes focus on the power of Stewarts vocals and how well it blends with the other instruments, especially acoustic guitar. The tunes have a folksy-blues feel about them. What I do like best about this is that you can hear Stewarts progression as a singer when listening to the disc. The songs have a more stripped down feel to them when compared to Stewarts later recording like "Hot Legs", "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" and "Young Turks".

With over 50 songs on these three CDs it is impossible to pick any favorites because they are all so fuckin' good.
-- Mite Mutant (2002)

Sticks & Stones - The Strife And Times- 2CD
(Chunksaah Records)

Still Time - Stream of Consciousness - CD
(Still Time Music) Still Time has a jazzy rock feel somewhat like Dave Mathews, but not a rip off of their sound, fronted by a vocalist that sounds like a mix of Adam Duritz and Van Morrison. The songs are full of catchy hooks and tunes like "Memory Lane" make it hard not to dance. Some songs head into a ska influenced area similar to Sublime with great results. I find myself liking this band more with each play of the album. Definitely a band to watch out for and as an added bonus they have a great bass player.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Stilo - Lisboa Avenue - CD
(Stilo) This is a mostly instrumental CD with a lean towards a world music feel. The songs are a bit light for my liking and after hearing great world music instrumentals by the likes of Dudley & Coleman, AfroCelt Sound System, Lights in a Fat City, etc. this release just failed to capture my interest.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Sting & The Police - The Very Best of - CD
(utv Records) Now this is everything that a greatest hits package should be. It has eighteen great songs and none of them are extras or duds. This collection showcases songs from every period of the Police and Sting's solo career all mixed together. It's amazing how well the songs that span two decades all fit together and a testament to Sting's song writing ability. The only bad part is that there are a few songs missing that I would have added such as "Synchronicity", but I really can't complain. The Police tracks span from "Roxanne" to "Every Breath You Take" and Sting's "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free" to "Desert Rose", so there is something for everyone.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Stolen Fish - Stolen Fish - CD
(Sticky Star Records P.O. Box 261053 LA, CA 90026) This band is good, but they don't really seem like anything very special. I like them, however I don't love them and can't get too excited about them. The songs are good, the lyrics are good and the vocals are good...it just doesn't have that something extra special. I think the best part of Stolen Fish is the singer, Karen Martin. I really do like her voice, but that just isn't enough to get me through.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Stoley P.T. - Lesson #1 - CD
(In Music We Trust) Now while I'm hip to CD's that have photos of kittie heads and bongs on their covers, and my favorite song on this release is called "Cat Bong", I'm not too sure how many other people will be into it, just because of the cover. This is too bad, because this release is 100 times greater than what the cover lets on. Depending on the song, I can hear elements of the Replacements, Dinosaur Jr. and even a more rockin' Weakerthans. Every tune on this release is toe-tappin', head-boppin' catchy. So if you're out and see a cheesy looking CD cover with a cats head in front of two crossed bongs, do yourself a favor and get it, it'll be better than you think. With all the crap that's out there, Stoley P.T. is a bright spot on today’s barren musical landscape.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Stoley PT - Winter-Summer-Winter-Summer - CD
(In Music We Trust) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Michael Stollaire - Holy Avenger - CD
(Platinum West Records) The music sounds like '80s public domain background tracks and the singing is the vocal equivalent. Throw in religiousness and you've got yourself one crappy CD.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Ariel Storm - Ariel Storm - CD
(Carefree & Bohemian Records) Sad to say, but Ariel Storm sounds nothing more than a weak version of Kate Bush. Ariel's vocals lack the passion and strength that Kate has. The lyrics are weak and the music is a bit too "hippi-ish" for my taste. I guess the name of the record label should have given it away.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

The Story So Far - When Fortune Smiled - CD
(Hopeless Records) These guys play fairly typical pop-punk. They are better than most and could be compared favorably to the currently super popular Jimmy Eat World. But The Story So Far have a bit more of an emo tinge to them than JEW. As for the band members the singer is in 88 Finger Louie (another great band) and other members are from King for a Day.
-- Grog Mutant (2005)

Los Straightjackets - Sing Along with... - CD
(Cavalcade Records) I haven't heard these guys for quite some time, but it seems like they are posed to get some recognition. Helping out on this release are Mike Campbell, The Reverend Horton Heat, Nick Lowe, Allison Moorer and many others. From what I recall Los Straightjackets were primarily a surf band with a Mexican tilt, especially since most of the vocals were in Spanish. Now they are a surf / rockabilly / blues that really fires things up, and still sing a few songs in Spanish. Their sound is really raw which brings to mind recordings from the 60's and causes Los Straightjackets to have a more authentic sound than most bands of these styles.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

StraitJacket - Vices - CD
(Beelzabob Music) A run of the mill rock cover band releases a CD of weak covers. Nothing to hear here. Move along.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Strange Day - Face the Change - CD
(Strange Day) "In Review"
-- (2008)

Strangers as Heroes - This is Not a Result of Chemistry - CD
(What Else? Records) Six tunes by this band that sounds so much like one of my all time favorite local bands, The Barnhills that it's scary. And no fucking wonder, now looking at the CD I noticed that my old friend Jeremy is in the band, Yup, the same Jeremy who was in The Barnhills. Bastard, he never told me about his new band. By the way, this CD is great. Pop punk melodies at their finest.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Nathaniel Street-West - Witness - CD
(Puffin Records) Street's recent offering pairs him with legendary producer Mark Howard, and the result is a folky collection of songs that are at once minimal and full of sounds. His songwriting doesn't necessarily help him to stand out from the singer-songwriter pack, but there are some cool sounds on the disc. While most of the material is loosely based on the standard I-IV-V blues progression, Street also has enough vocal tricks that it's apparent he'd prefer to reside in Jeff Buckley territory, although I suppose it might be difficult to find a singer-songwriter without a similar Buckley complex. A rougher sound might have benefited the collection and shown off a bit more of Street's personality, as this CD comes across as a fairly polished coffee shop singer's "big break" with a big-name producer.
-- Billy Catfish (2006)

Street Pharmacy - Free Delivery - CD
(Street Pharmacy) It seems like every song on this release starts off great with a punk alternative edge. Then while I'm just getting into the songs the band switches to a generic reggae beat. The first two times it wasn't bad, but on the third tune I just had to rip my headphones off. It's almost as if they were trying to be like Sublime, but instead of mixing the genres they just sandwiched them together on every song. Really I just can't take it. Too bad, because the punk alternative part of the songs I liked.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Joe Strell - Enormous Morning - CD
(Dansbane Elandet) "In Review"
-- (2007)

Joe Strell - In the Balance - CD
(Dansbane) Joe has an acoustical singer-songwriter sound. While many of the songs on this disc are decent, they just don't stand out. I found myself enjoying the music, but the lyrics and vocals just didn't do a thing for me. I did start to gain interest on "Mood (Clown Noire)", which is an instrumental that is in the middle of the disc, however my player locked up and when I finally managed to get the disc out I noticed a big ding on the CD. Then while putting it back into its case I saw the puncture as evidence that an outside force caused the ding and thus making the rest of the CD unplayable. So what it really all comes down to is that I didn't find this release interesting enough to request another copy.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Strings of Consciousness - Our Moon is Full - CD
(Central Control International) This one really lives up to its name. Have you ever read any stream of conscious writing? If so then image that style in music form with "strings" and many other instruments. Some of the songs turn out great, such as the pseudo industrial "Crystallize It", others really grate on my nerves like the falling apart "Cleanliness is Next to Godliness". The band is full of ex-members of bands known for their odd song structures and lack of melody. Musicians in this band have been involved with bands such as Foetus, Girls Against Boys, Oxbow, Frank Black, Pere Ubu, Soft Machine and Bob Mould. If you like things out of the mainstream then maybe this is just up your alley.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Strix Vega - Drunken Sky - CD
(Strix Vega) Decent sounding lo-fi college rock that sounds like something out of the late 80’s. I liked their music for the most part and even the vocalist’s voice, which was odd, had a certain charm to it. The only thing that bugged me where how the drums seemed to be getting off beat at times. I don’t think it was intentional, but every so often he’d drop a beat and try to catch up. This would be better if they hooked their drummer up to a metronome.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Struggle In The Hive - Struggle In The Hive - CD
(Future Apple Tree Records) Listening to this release is like taking a trail hike in the mountains on an early morning after it has snowed all night. Everything about the scenery is beautiful and peaceful. The sun is just coming out, the air is clean and you’re just enjoying it as you’re taking it all in. But after awhile you start to feel tired and the initial beauty of the new day starts wearing off. Right then, you slip and fall into a stream. You now march back home over a now mud laden path which sucks at your hiking boots every single step, making the whole thing all the more drudging. At this point you could care less about the splendor of your surroundings; you just want the whole thing to be over with. While this release starts off with a handful of catchy tunes, “Garden”, “Letter Written Home” and the slow waltz of “Angela”, after awhile the slothfulness of the songs just get to you. Hopefully the band will choose to put more variety in future tunes. Still a lovely release, just listen to it in segments and you should be fine.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Styrofoam Junkies - Styrofoam Junkies - CD
(Styrofoam Junkie) This is a quick five song taste of Styrofoam. While they do have some potential and decent song ideas, they kill themselves off by being too unfocused. They have a DJ who adds some scratching and a standard setup, but just when I think they're going to do a cool hybrid they tone things down into run of the mill rock. It really does seem like they have the ability to do something different, but they just aren't ready to move beyond the comfort zone.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Styx - Gold - 2CD
(Universal Records) “Pieces of Eight” was the very first album I’ve ever owned. I was 9-years-old. I wore that album out by playing it so much. Kevin, my best friend at the time was also a Styx fan Between the two of us we owned every release that Tommy Shaw appeared on and even a few earlier releases by the time their first live album “Caught in the Act” came out. After that our interest turned to other things and Styx’s creative output disintegrated along with the band member’s relationship with each other.

So when I say this release is awesome, that’s saying something. There are 35 songs on this double CD release and not one of them is a stinker. What I really like about this release, as compared to other Styx “Greatest Hits” releases is that it pulls music from earlier releases, and ignores the mediocre music they produced on later releases. They also include the original version of “Man in the Wilderness” which is longer than the version that appeared on “The Grand Illusion.” Now go away while I reminisce.
-- Mite Mutant (2006)

Subject to Thoughts - From Sunrise to Sunset - CD
(Subject to Thoughts) Looking at the cover I figured it would be a fairly lame new age sort of project. Wrong again. Instead my ears were assaulted by a spacey progressive rock band with a vocalist who evidently likes to sing flat while in an echo chamber. The guitarist reminds me of guitar wankers such as Joe Satriani or Yngwie Malmsteen if they were asked to hold back and play "thoughtfully". I do like the sound and feel that the bass, drums and keyboards manage to put out. A nice layered foundation to build a great song on top. However, that is not the case and the rhythm section appears lost in a serious case of ego embellishment.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Sublime - Best of Sublime - CD
(Universal Records) I have always been a fan of Sublime's ska sound and their risqué lyrics. Although I though the choice in songs was good on this release, I really did not consider them to all to be Sublime's "best". Still a great listen from one of the bands that introduced me to ska.
-- Simi Mutant (2002)

Sublime - Deluxe Edition - 2CD
(Universal Records) I was actually surprised by a couple of things while listening to this release. One is how this band was able to mix genres like rap, reggae and punk and produce such great songs. The second is just how they were able to have songs with lyrics that paint violent images sound so catchy. "Doin' Time", "Wrong Way", "What I Got", "Pawn Shop", Sangeria" . are just a few of the hits to be found on this release. Still, with all of the goodness that is on CD one of this two CD deluxe set, this is more of a release for hardcore fans. Disc two contains three instrumentals, two extra versions of "What I got" (one of them is an instrumental) and four of "Doin' Time". Yeah, it ends up being a bit of overkill.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Submission Hold - What Holds Back The Elephant? - CD
(G-7 Welcoming Committee) I really love this album. It’s like a mix of Avail, Nation of Ulysses, Sub-Humans, Bikini Kill all thrown together and wrestling for control of the sound being played in front of Jen’s soci-political lyrics. Primarily post-punk deconstructionist hardcore, they also branch out into other related areas musically. I’ve heard of people not liking the free form “Sealed June 16, 1994” but I like the feel as the disparate sounds come together to form a musical soundscape. If you like thought provoking lyrics that will get you upset at the way things are and music that is on the punk edge then Submission Hold is just for you.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Sucka Brown - What Elephant? - CD
(RoHo Records) Sucka Brown gets things kickin’ with the Red Hot Chili Peppers funk inspired tune “Throw Your Weight Around” which had me bouncing off the walls. I was thinking to myself that if the rest of the CD was as half as good as this first tune, I was in for a treat. Although the quality of the songs seemed to go down the further I got in the disc, Sucka Brown still didn’t disappoint. Most of the songs on this release had a slight RHCP feel to them, albeit with the songs having a smoother pop sound. The final cut on the release “What Elephant” is the most tradition rock song of the bunch. My other faves on this release include “Six in One Hand” and “Guinea Pig”. Go ahead and check ‘em out yourself.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sugarcane Mutiny - Your Town - CD
(Sugarcane Mutiny) This band reminds me a lot of the great LA band X. However, they just can't seem to get it together. The music is fundamentally sound, great punked out surf-rock with a bit of a goth twist. But the male / female vocals seem uninspired and just leave me flat. And while some of the lyrics are decent, others like "Your Town" leave me totally apathetic. While I think the Sugarcane Mutiny has a ton of potential, they just fall short on this release.
-- Grog Mutant (2008)

Suk - Suk - CD
(Incriminating Records 1021 E. Broadway #125 Long Beach, CA 90802) My first inclination on reviewing this disk would be just too easy. So I'll just say that this is very basic beginner 1-2 punk rock.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Summer Obsession - This Is Where You Belong - CD
(Virgin Records) Take the sound of Yellowcard sans violin, mixed with Good Charlotte and fairly typical late teen / early twenty lyrical meanderings and you have My Summer Obsession. Nothing special here at all for me. They look like "mall punks" and even have the old drummer from Good Charlotte in the band. I could see this appealing to many teens who want something a bit safer than pop-punk, but still want to listen to something a bit harder than standard pop.
-- Grog Mutant (2006)

Andy Summers & Robert Fripp - Advance Masked - CD
(Universal Records) Since the Police announced that they were doing a reunion tour I’ve been expecting not only re-mastered versions of their work as a group to pop up, but also releases of their solo work, including the music from the less famous members of the group, Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland. I wasn’t disappointed. On this release Andy Summers hooks up with the legendary Robert Fripp of King Crimson, whose name I’m used to seeing attached to Brian Eno’s on various releases.

With the pairing of these two guitar legends, this CD is exactly what you would expect it to be, guitar laden rock instrumentals. The CD starts off with the tune “I Advance Masked” which sounds like a lead in track to the Police album “Synchronicity”. The same can be said for the following two songs, the minimalistic “Under Bridges of Silence” and the first 2 minutes of “China – Yellow Leader”.

While the guitar work on the rest of the release is amazing, no of them outshined the first three. Still, this is a CD that gets better of each listen.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

The Sun - Love & Death EP - CD
(Warner Brothers Records) This is a six song major label debut by the Columbus, OH band The Sun. The release starts off with a bang, "Fell so Hard" is a full throttle song in the vein of The Strokes or The White Stripes, bringing to mind older groups like The Stooges or the Dead Boys. The second track is one I've been hearing a lot on 97X called "Rock Stop". This tune is mellower and features their keyboards and an over all spacey feel. The remainder of the tunes are fairly close to the first one, but not at full throttle. Still they have the power, but aren't quite as out in front about it. Overall they have that retro retro early punk / new wave sound. I think the one thing, which sets them apart from the others, is their upfront keyboard, which adds so much texture to their sound. Other than "Rock Stop" my favorite tune is "Carry It All" with its driving keyboard / bass line. A great band from right up the road, which hopefully will make something happen to radio.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Sunny Day Real Estate - The Rising Tide - CD
(Time Bomb Recordings / BMG) I've heard a few Sunny Day Real Estate songs in the past and really liked them, which is why this release disappointed me. It was very mellow without much to keep me involved. I really did nothing for me expect be a bit annoying.
-- Grog Mutant (2001)

Sunshine Club - Mary Lee - CD
(Ten Year Party Records) Fairly typical bluesy rock band from the inner city with a singer who smokes way too much. That pretty much sums it up for me. They're tight and play catchy rhythms and I'm sure they draw a crowd, especially the women. This is type of band that sounds good live and makes for a good show, but in my opinion they fall flat on a release.
-- Grog Mutant (2007)

Sunwheel Psychedelic - Compassion And Cruelty - CD
(Sunwheel Psychedelic) If you have ever heard Jack Black do one of his over the top rock tunes (they really all sound the same) then you will have a pretty good idea of what about every tune on this release by Sunwheel Psychedelic sounds like. This is beautifully illustrated on the tune "Swan Song". I have to say that the music isn't bad, even though it's over the top guitar and drum fueled rock machismo. The lyrics and vocals are another thing. With the "Alrights", "Ah Yeahs" and other assorted vocal grunts thrown in, the songs come off as parodies. I feel if this band would go in that direction and take things less seriously, then they would be great. It would be us laughing with them instead of at them.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Supagroup - Supagroup - CD
(Foodchain Records) Many have been making a big deal lately of the band The Darkness and their cheesy heavy metal rock and roll revival. Well you know what. Many bands have been doing the same thing, just as well if not better for years in the USA. One of those bands is Supagroup. Their a heavy metal hard rockin' band who you can't tell if they take themselves seriously or not. But you know what, who cares?!! It's kick ass music, with great hooks, great guitar leads, great lyrics and vocals, which remind me of "Big Balls" AC/DC. Lita Ford, your rebirth may just be just on the horizon.
-- Mite Mutant (2003)

Super Chikan - Shoot That Thing - CD
(Rooster Blues Records) With a name like Super Chikan, I was expecting to hear some weird cajun blues, ala Screamin' Jay Hawkins. What I got was good feeling, straight-up blues with beautiful grooves. It was all unexpected and a welcome surprise. The various tunes run from playful, to seriously smooth to heart bleeding. Mmmm yeah.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

The Superbeams - Keep Talkin' Dunce - CD
(The Superbeams) There's nothing spectacular about this two man band. The music is repetitious and played with the safeness of an inexperienced band. The lyrics and vocals don't stand out either. This is just not all that interesting.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Superdude - Pothead Punk - CD
(Superdude) This CD starts out with songs that sound like throwaway's from the Sex Pistol's movie "Never Mind the Bollocks." It's as if Mr. Fiend of Alien Sex Fiend was trying to do a bad impersonation of Johnny Rotten. The CD hits rock bottom on the fourth track "Beeper Man", and somehow manages to go even get worse from there. This release is nothing more than super yuck. (Thought I was going to put super bad, didn't ya?)
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Superjaded - An Inch Below E - CD
www.superjaded.com Rock out man! Superjaded has a sweet guitar/vocal alternative flavored sound. There's just a pinch of Smashing Pumpkins that I heard as I listened to this CD, but just a pinch. This is one of those CD's that I will be listening to over and over for the next few weeks.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Superstar Rookie - The Problem with Words - CD
(Diaphragm Records) Driven by distinct vocals and guitar, this band has a solid pop punk sound. While none of the tunes on this release really stood out, the overall CD is pleasing to listen to. Middle of the road is a good term to describe this disk.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Supertones - Hi-Fi Revival - CD
(Tooth & Nail Records) My favorite christian ska-punk band is back in a big way. I've been a fan of the Supertones since I first heard them on a Tooth & Nail compilation back in the mid 90's. I find them extremely catchy, fun, uplifting music...but at times a bit preachy and goofy. It's great that they are so into their faith and I don't mind most of the songs praising Jesus since they preach inclusion, but some of them are pure cheese and make me jump for the next track button. The best thing about this release, other than the great tunes, is that it has less cheesy moments than any of their previous discs.
-- Grog Mutant (2003)

Supertramp - Brother Where You Bound - CD
(Universal Records) This release is after Roger Hodgson left the group. Some people said that without him Supertramp would never be the same...they were right. The songs on this release go on way too,long and while they are musically adept they really lack something overall. The lyrics all fall on Rick Davies and while he's adequate, he just can't match up all the time. The best track on the release is "Cannonball" which was a hit for them and has some of the old Supertramp flavor, but it just heads downhill from there.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Supertramp - "...Famous Last Words..."- CD
(Universal Records) Listening to this release I immediately think of that long running show from the 80's Thirtysomething. I can't saw that I saw it more than a handful of times, but this could be the soundtrack for what remains in my mind. This disc is full of songs that have that unique Supertramp sound which seems to only hold for that time period which passed by so long ago. The songs are haunting, searching and full of antagonizing emotion. It portrays all the self-absorption and self-discovery which is synonymous of the "Reagan Years". I really didn't know much about this particular release before I listened to it, but I would have to say that it is one of their best, most consistent records and quite possibly their best release.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Supertramp - Free as a Bird- CD
(Universal Records) This was released after Brother Where You Bound, and seems to be the annoying precursor to Kenny G. This is basically a bunch of pseudo-jazz tunes set to weak lyrics. Ugghhh, this must be why so many people I know look at me as if I'm insane when I say I like Supertramp. I like their older stuff, but this is making me go into convulsions...
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Supertramp - Paris - 2CD
(Universal Records) This is a re-release of a show from 1979 and contains most of their well known songs. I haven't listened to Supertramp much over the past decade or so, but I recall them being one of my favorite bands when I was a little kid thanks to my older brother and sister. Listening to these CD's really takes me back and lets me know why I liked them so much. They were excellent songwriters and great musicians who composed many memorable songs such as "Ain't Nobody But Me", "The Logical Song" (my favorite song of theirs), "Hide in Your Shell", "Breakfast in America", "From Now On", "Dreamer", "Take the Long Way Home" and of course "Bloody Well Right". Supertramp never seemed to have the same lasting appeal as other art-rock bands of the time such as Queen or ELP, and that's most likely due to the fact that they were a bit more pop than their contemporaries, but no less talented musicians. Another benefit is the Monet like paintings that grace the front cover and tray cover. If you like Supertramp or music from this period, then this release is a must.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Swampdawamp - Swampdawamp - CD
(Swampdawamp) Swampdawamp belts out some good ‘ol southern bar band blues rock, I tell you what. The vocalist has the perfect voice for this kind of music, and the band just rocks it. While I was listening to this release thoughts of Eric Clapton’s song “After Midnight” kept popping up in my head. And when you do pick up this disc, be sure to check out the tune “Birthday”, you’ll be happy you did.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Matthew Sweet - To Understand - The Early Recordings of Matthew Sweet - CD
(Hip-O Records) This is a collection of Matthew Sweet's early releases and demos. If you're familiar with his music and songs it's very interesting to hear this release. The first five songs are from a 1984 release The Buzz of Delight, and the first two of those sound almost identical and his voice just doesn't sound right. However, the music is good and you can tell why he was signed to a developmental deal with a label soon afterwards. The release also contains songs from three other releases; Inside, Blast of Silence and Earth. But the most interesting tracks are the demos and the original version of his big hit "Girlfriend" which was initially "Good Friend". You also get an excellent booklet that tells the story of Matthew Sweet and unlike many others his story is actually interesting. If you like Matthew Sweet then this release is essential.
-- Grog Mutant (2002)

Sweet Baby J'ai - Introducing J'ai Michel - CD
(SMG Records)
-- (2008)

Sweet-Tooth Simpleton & The Simple Tones - Sweet-Tooth Simpleton & The Simple Tones - CD
(Sweet Tooth Entertainment) Sweet Tooth Simpleton has a nice quirky singing voice that can be likened to a twangy They Might Be Giants. The music is just as nice with its Texas twang. There are times when the twang of the band is overused. "Café Poster" would be a great song if it wasn't for the overuse of the lap steel. I also enjoyed "Bright Young Texan". The only problem I have is with the lyrics and the over reliance on the quirkiness. I think with a bit more maturity in the music and vocals this will be a pretty good band.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Sweet Water - Clear the Tarmac - CD
(Golden City) When the first track, "Grass is Green," barreled through my speakers, I thought, "I LOVE these guys!!!" It's a great song, with great lyrics, and "just-hard-enough" guitar hooks. It's just plain fun. Unfortunately, as is often the case, they hit you with the best straight away, and after that, everything else just kind of disappoints.

In all fairness, this album does have other highlights. Tracks like "Tonight," "Hesitation" (which brought to mind the British band Blur, actually), and "Elevator" make me hold onto the hope that this band will just keep getting better because they simply have too much potential not to. The rest of the tracks didn't interest me all that much, but I'd buy mp3 versions of the others for my ipod in a heartbeat.

Keep growing guys . . . I want to see what you're made of.
-- Fonda Mutant (2009)

Swell - The Trip - 7"
(Beggars Banquet) A 7" by a band that has melody, that's something I don't get in the mail everyday. A very cool sound that lovingly accentuated with a gong. This is the kind of find that makes me happy that I still own a turntable.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Sheila Swift - The Shape of Things - CD
(Sheila Swift) Sheila’s music is what radio folks call AAA. This is music that is geared to the masses and leans more toward the pop-rock end of the musical spectrum. The music is solid and Sheila’s vocals are superb. It’s not really the type of music I would listen to on a regular basis, but I wouldn’t change the channel if it was on. The opening cut “Feel Like I Do” is a perfect radio driving song. You should check it out.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

Switch - The Millennium Collection - CD
(Universal Music) This is a collection of tunes from a band that I have never heard of. Their sound is very light R&B. The kind of music that I would hear on the radio station that my mom listened to when I was growing up. Not really my cup-o-tea, but if you like this sound then check it out.
-- Mite Mutant (2001)

Anton Sword - A Sentimental Education - CD
(Kiss Chase Records) There seems to be a bit of Bowie-like ballading going on with this release, but after 4 listens, nothing really stood out. The songs aren't bad, they just aren't memorable.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Sybreed - Slave Design - CD
(Reality Entertainment) At first, I didn’t know what to make of this band but the more I spin it the more I like it. I’m not a sci-fi kind of guy per se but I do have to say that Sybreed does it and does it very well. The vocals are reminiscent of Rob Halford at times and of Meshuggah at others while the playing is flawless and intense. Each note of every song is played deliberately, with perfect timing and back dropped with light synthesizers lending a richer, fuller sound amidst the devastating apocalyptic crunch. This is Swedish Black Metal Sci-Fi at its best.
-- Chavez Trepas (2006)

Sylvarluxe - Big Bang - CD
(Skrymir Music) The feeble male vocals and music that kick off the opening tune "Big Bang" is just a precursor to how weak this CD is overall. The female vocal on the tune "Raining Glass & Steel" are good, it's just that it seems the vocalist has no sense of rhythm, and the male vocalist isn't much better. The singing doesn't go along with the music at all, and the electric guitar in the middle of the song is pure '80s cheese. The lyrics aren't much better. Maybe someone like Bjork could make something out of them, but not this band.
-- Mite Mutant (2008)

Syrup - Syrup - CD
(Feedback Symphony Music) Donning cowboy glam rock regalia, Syrup is a four-man heavy bar band rock machine. It’s like a late ’80 L.A. glam band traveled forward in time and landed in the south. Inspired by the local culture they injected southern references into their lyrics and married with their rockin’ sound decided to share their creation with the world via this CD. “Fatback High on the Hog,” “Chickens Out the Henhouse” and "Sexy Swimmin’ Hole” are just a few of the polished turds that will have you thankful that bands can’t really time travel.
-- Mite Mutant (2007)

System Noise - Give Me Power - CD
(System Noise) This six-track disc has a driving, sometimes bluesy rock feel. There are shades of Evanescence without the pretension. The production is good, but really the most notable part of the CD is the lead singer's voice. Vocalist Sarah Mucho has the force and grit of Chrissie Hynde but the quality is much smoother. She is the lyricist as well, and sometimes the actual lyrics get lost in her performance at times. But based on these few tracks, it was an enjoyable listen.
-- Tempus Mutant (2009)