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)

Sadistik - The Balancing Act - CD
(Sadistik) "In Review"
-- (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)

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)

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)

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 Screwdrivers - 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 Replacements, 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) "In Review"
-- (2008)

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)

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)

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) "In Review"
-- (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) "In Review"
-- (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) "In Review"
-- (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)

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) "In Review"
-- (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)

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)

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) "In Review"
-- (2007)

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) "In Review"
-- (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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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) "In Review"
-- (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 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)

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) "In Review"
-- (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)

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)

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)

SPF1000 - Witch Hunt- CD
(Dark Future Music)

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) "In Review"
-- (2007)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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) "In Review"
-- (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', he