Starry Eyed and Listening

Peter Case Live

2011-08-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

They don't promote shows for folks my age. So when I decided to step out of the office for a cup of coffee and saw a bill in a shop window for Peter Case at Triad Stage, I was pumped. I won't be needing that caffeine after all. Reading the "fine print" (somebody needs lessons in poster design) I noticed the show was TONIGHT! Being less than a block away, I ran over to Triad Stage (a beautiful facility in what must be a 100 year old brick building) a bought my tickets.

I'm guessing that there were about 50-60 people there to see Peter Case perform, which is pretty good for Greensboro on a Thursday night...with no promotion. Peter sung many of the more recent songs from his last few CDs, told some hysterical stories, and even did an old Breakaways number. You may remember the Breakaways as Case and Collins' follow up to The Nerves.

Having met Peter before when he was performing a few years earlier in Winston Salem NC (before his heart attack), I would have loved to say "hello" after the show. He often makes himself available to speak with fans after shows. I doubt he would have remembered me, but it would have been interesting. Regardless, Case's songs and voice were an important part of my youth and I got a chance to relive it to a degree that Thursday night.

Thanks, Peter.

Have a beer with Del Fuegos

2011-07-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

This week we're having a beer with Del Fuegos. Enjoy!

More Commercials

2011-06-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

This time it's A Flock of Seagull's Bud commercial. Yeah, I know they're not really power pop, but they're a lot of fun. So Here it is.....

Cheap Trick's Commercial

2011-06-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

Over the years, powerpop bands have made some great contributions to Madison Avenue, occasionally raising commercials above noise pollution to, dare I say it, art. I'd like to showcase a few. Here's Segment one for your listening pleasure. Enjoy Cheap Trick's contribution to superbowl history and the ecosystem, The Green Police.

Nick Lowe - The Old Magic Coming Soon!

2011-06-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

In "Checkout Time", one of the cuts from his soon to be released CD, Nick Lowe sings "I'm sixty-one years old now, Lord I never thought I'd see 30". When YepRoc releases his LP, The Old Magic, in September of 2011, it will be Lowe's 13th full length effort (14th if you count 2004's live "Untouched Takeaway"). 'The Old Magic' was recorded in London with Lowe's backing band anchored by Geraint Watkins (keyboards), Steve Donnelly (guitar), and Robert Treherne (a.k.a. Bobby Irwin, drums). Additional musicians include Ron Sexsmith, Paul Carrack, and Jimmie Vaughan among others.

On the heels of YepRoc's release of FOW's Rithcie & Rubin, it promises to be quite a summer for music fans.

New Fountains of Wayne On The Way!

2011-06-03T08:36:00.001-07:00

Various outlets have reported that a new FOW LP is on the way, due out
this summer. Richie & Rubin" will be the first ever release for the
band on YepRock out of North Carolina. In the last few years YepRock
has released CDs from Nick Lowe, Liam Finn, and The Baseball Project (think Scott McCaughey and Young Fresh Fellows) so this seems to be a good fit. The video of the first single, Richie & Rubin, is available
here.

Could Gene Simmons Be Running?

2011-06-02T06:16:00.000-07:00

When I'm president my cabinet will consist of Gene Simmons, Richard Simmons, and Homer Simpson. Gene will be my Secretary of State. Here's why:

Nuff said.

The Bangles and Records Together!

2011-05-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

If you were really lucky, you attended a recent performance of The Records in LA. Powerpop fans went ga-ga when Debbi Peterson of The Bangles joined John Wicks and the rest of The Records for a song entitled "Liverpool 6512", a great new song about growing up a Beatles fan. This was an incredible treat and thanks to a concert goer with an iphone, I've got a video of it for you right here. Enjoy!

Go Gos Remastered!

2011-04-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

On or around May 17, Capitol/I.R.S. will release a 30th Anniversary Edition of The Go-Go's double platinum debut album, Beauty and the Beat, which has been digitally remastered and expanded.

The commemorative edition will be available in a 2CD package and in two digital collections featuring the remastered original album plus exclusive, previously unreleased concert audio recordings from 1981.

On the same date, the remastered original album will be reissued on pink vinyl with replicated original artwork.

I remember hearing "Our Lips Are Sealed" for the first time (the first single from Beauty and The Beat), then the only recorded track for the band, on the Rutgers University student run radio station and running out and seeing the band the following Saturday night at a converted Go-Go bar in New Jersey (no kidding). I have to be honest, I remember very little about the evening due to my overindulgence of alcoholic libations. That being said, I recall there being a small crowd of about 30-50 of us all cramped up near the edge of the "stage". I was about 10 feet away from Belinda Carlisle when a fight broke out right in front of me. Carlisle stopped the band and, shaking her finger in a dismissive gesture, said "Now, now boys". Bouncers threw the fighters out and the show resumed. I'm told I had great fun that night.

The Go-Go's will hit the road this summer on their Ladies Gone Wild tour in support of the new release. Here are the dates:

August
12 Vancouver, BC Commodore Ballroom
13 Portland, OR Oregon Zoo Amphitheatre
14 Seattle, WA Woodland Park Zoo
16 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore
17 Los Angeles, CA The Greek Theater
20 Temecula, CA Pechanga Resort & Casino
23 Aspen, CO Belly Up
24 Denver, CO Ogden Theater
26 Dallas, TX House of Blues
27 Houston, TX House of Blues
28 Austin, TX Paramount Theater

The Trashmen - Surfin' Bird

2011-04-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

SURFIN' BIRD
(Frazier - White - Harris - Wilson)
THE TRASHMEN (GARRETT 4002, 1963)

A-well-a everybody's heard about the bird
B-b-b-bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, the bird is the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, well the bird is the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, well the bird is the word
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, well the bird is the word
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a don't you know about the bird?
Well, everybody knows that the bird is the word!
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a...

A-well-a everybody's heard about the bird
Bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird, bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a don't you know about the bird?
Well, everybody's talking about the bird!
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word
A-well-a bird...

Surfin' bird
Bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbb... [retching noises]... aaah!

Pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-
Pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow

Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Oom-oom-oom-oom-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-oom-oom-oom
Oom-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-a-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, ooma-mow-mow
Papa-oom-oom-oom-oom-ooma-mow-mow
Oom-oom-oom-oom-ooma-mow-mow
Ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
Papa-ooma-mow-mow, ooma-mow-mow
Well don't you know about the bird?
Well, everybody knows that the bird is the word!
A-well-a bird, bird, b-bird's the word

Papa-ooma-mow-mow, papa-ooma-mow-mow
[repeat to fade]

I always loved this song so I decided to post the lyrics. After glancing one more time
at them and then the song credits it struck me. It took four guys to write this? Ouch. Still love the song.

Smithereens 2011

2011-04-16T07:30:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you can come home. I spent my formative years as a New Jerey native, listening to the best the state had
to offer. Brought up on Sinatra and surrounded by Springsteen fans, I was a restless teen in need of something new.
A chance stop at the Court Tavern in New Brunswick introduced me to a new, local band called The Smithereens. That
night some 30 years ago changed my life forever.

So I was thrilled to hear that there would be a new Smithereens "record" after 12 years (there I go again, showing my age). The classic Smithereens records, Especially for You, Green Thoughts, and "11", changed the way I thought about music, how much of it I consumed, and how much it consumed me. To say that I was looking forward to hearing the first new material from Pat DiNizio and company in a long time is an understatement.

Produced by Don Dixon right here in my NC backyard, my expectations were raised even higher. Dixon had produced the best of their past releases as well as outstanding recordings by REM, another of my faves. And his production work here is outstanding as usual.

The "single" (if there is such a thing anymore), "Sorry" is drawn from a familiar Smithereens template. Like most of the songs in the disc, it's the hook-filled, chord driven powerpop fare we've come to expect from these guys. "One Look At You" really sticks in your head. You'll find yourself humming this tune after just a listen or two. Jim Babjak's guitar work is still powerpop's best, imo, Diken great as well. Still, after repeated listenings I couldn't help feeling like something was missing though. Bassist Severo “The Thrilla” Jornacion is fine, but there were no killer "Girl Like You" or "Behind The Wall Of Sleep" like cuts on the record. Perhaps Mike Mesaros' contributions were bigger than originally thought. I dunno.

The middle of the record has some filler, but songs like "Keep On Running", "Nobody Lives Forever", and "All The Same" make this a satisfying record nonetheless.

It's that classic Smithereens sound, and its good to hear again...even if there isn't a Smithereens classic here. Despite the absence of a classic, I find myself going back to it fairly often. Feels good...kinda like coming home.

The Records go acoustic with a new DVD!

2011-04-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

John Wicks, the lead singer and songwriter from the legendary power pop group, The Records, has released a live, acoustic DVD. The first release since his comeback record entitled "Rotate", Wicks (with the help of new Record Dennis Taylor) performs some old favorites as well as some great new material. Fans of The Records will enjoy the Wicks/Birch penned "Her Stars Are My Stars" as well as the quintessential classic, "Starry Eyes", performed with the assistance of one Matthew Sweet. Sweet's contribution is minimal, but its great to see him with the band nonetheless.

The performance is also chock full of new material, with all the hooks we've grown accustomed to from a Wicks/Records release. They also do a nice cover of The Beatles' Things We Said Today" and Graham Gouldman's "Bus Stop". All in all, a very good time.

You can check out the lyrics or view a clip by going to WicksWirks or order it here through Kool Kat Musik.

PopFilter - Pop This!

2011-02-21T08:53:00.000-08:00

Chris Anderson and friends have created a polished power pop sound that, albeit a familiar formula, is crisp and fun. As well as having several standout songs, this disc is worth the price of admission just for the fact that it may be the final work left behind by the late, great Will Owsley who co-produced and played bass and piano on parts. Also worth noting is the participation of Ducky Carlisle. Those who remember the Syracuse NY scene in it's heyday remember The Flashcubes, Screen Test, and The Ohms, all of which Ducky played an integral part in. Here he co-produces with Bleu and Owsley, lending his pop sensibilities to help create a pretty decent pop record. This one is worth picking up. Highlights are the second cut, "Take The Shortcut", which could pass for a long, lost Hall and Oats song and "Holly Would" is as sweet a powerpop confection as you'll find anywhere. Available thru Kool Kat Musik

Paul Collins Tour Dates for 2011

2011-01-25T18:10:00.000-08:00

Don Kirshner Dies At 77 Years Of Age

2011-01-23T18:15:00.000-08:00

Don Kirshner, legendary American music publisher, died Monday in Boca Raton, Florida of heart failure. He was 77.

Time magazine once dubbed him “The man with the golden ear.”

Kirshner is best known for managing the songwriting talent behind the successful pop music television series The Monkees and later The Archies, and also for his signature television program Don Kirshner's Rock Concert.

He achieved his first major success in the late 1950s and early 1960s thanks to the "Brill Building'" artists he had under contract including Carole King, Neil Sedaka, Howard Greenfield, Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. He was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2007.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sheila and his children Ricky and Daryn.

Top Ten of 2010

2011-01-15T18:17:00.000-08:00

I recently had the honor of having my top ten posted to Powerpop Overdose, a fantastic site featuring everything that's good about the powerpop genre, old and new. Curt, the webmaster and all around good guy, not only posted my top ten list, but also included cooresponding mp3s for download. Check out Curt's site and download his sampler here. In the meantime, here's my list of top ten releases for 2010:

10) Paul Collins - King of Power Pop
Energetic and emotive as all get go.
Proof that PC still matters.
Highlights: C'Mon Let's Go, Many Roads To Follow

9)The Well Wishers - Post Modern Romantic
Jeff Shelton (formerly Spinning Jennies)
delivers another standout effort. Highlights:
Gramareater, Sorry About Your Politics

8)Scott's Garage - Soul Magnet
Jangle and a sense of humor. Great stuff!
Highlights: The Girl With The Yippy Dog,
You Were Such A Tool (I Remember High School)

7)Knit Delicate- Fulton Hill
With Tim Buckley (Blow Pops),
evidence that the Madison/Milwaukee area
has a better powerpop scene than many would think.
Standout cuts: Lovely, When I See You

6) Peter Case - Wig!
More electric blues than power pop, this LP is
no doubt a product of his recent health and money
issues. Highlights:
Ain't Got No Dough, House Rent Party

5) Lannie Flowers - Circles
Handclaps and hooks, turn this one up on
your radio (if only they played this kind of thing
on the radio today). Highlights: Turn Up Your
Radio, Around The World

4) Greg Pope - Blue Ocean Sky
Same formula that worked so well on Popmonster
and his EP, Pete, but the songs are
alittle more focused...his best yet.
Highlights: I Tried To Like You, Driving Tricks

3) Smash Palace - 7
When I saw the "Revolver" style cover I wondered
how this disc can possibly live up to the build up.
It does and then some. Their best yet.
Highlights: How Can You Say, Somebody Up There
likes Me

2) Farrah - Farrah
ELO fans will love "Swings & Roundabouts".
My teenager overheard me playing it and
asked "Is that the Beatles?". My kid's question was
a testament to how mature these guys sound.
Highlights: All of it, but since
I have to pick two, Swings & Roundabouts, Heavy Metal

1) Seth Swirsky - Watercolor Day
More diverse record than "She's about to cross
my mind". McCartney, Bacarach, Wilson...
He's chanelled them all. This disc was more fun to
listen to than any disc this year. Highlights:
Watercolor Day, Distracted

Gerry Rafferty, Mick Karn Pass Away

2011-01-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

Winter always seem to bring bad news. This time it's the passing of two very talented musicians. We all know Gerry Rafferty from his classic "Baker Street" although I always loved his "Stuck In The Middle With You" a whole lot more. Such a huge talent. He'll be missed. We also lost Mick Karn, bass player for Japan, one of my favorite art-rock bands of the early 80's. Not as well known but just as talented, we heard him in the classic "Gentlemen Take Polaroids" among other great tunes. Guys, thanks for the memories.

A New Adam Ant Record?

2011-01-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

According to Music-News.com, Adam Ant has a new self produced LP out this spring. From their website...."The shows lead up to the launch of his new Album, 'Adam Ant is the Blueblack Hussar in Marrying the Gunners Daughter.' Which is due for release this Spring on his own label 'Blueblack Hussar Records'. The self penned, self produced album, written and produced by Adam Ant along with his long time friends Boz Borer and Chris Macarmack, will be his first record release since his 'Wonderful' album in 1995, which achieved great critical acclaim."
I don't rmember "Wonderful" getting much critical acclaim, but I love his late 70's and early 80's stuff. Let's hope for a good one this go-round.

Power Pop Top 10 for 2011

2011-01-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

I did a guest post on Curt's Powerpop Overdose site. If you haven't seen his site, check it out. It's extraordinarily well written and he's got great taste! You can check out my top ten as posted on Powerpop Overdose by clicking here. If you miss it, fear not. I'll post it here in a couple of days.

Kool Kat Kristmas

2010-12-17T09:20:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas music and particularly power pop Christmas music. There's a new compilation put out by America's best powerpop label (now that Not Lame is gone, are they the only power pop label?), Kool Kat Musik, and it's a lot of fun. Most of the cuts are first rate. Parallax Project's "All I Want for Christmas is a Chance" is very catchy,
and Maple Mars' "Christmas Time in the City" has a melody that sticks. But the standout tracks are The Britannicas' "Chris Hillman Christmas", The Goldbergs' "Channukah Guy", and John Wicks' "Star of bethlehem". The first two are written with a keen sense of humor (an inportant ingredient to any holiday cheer) and the Wicks cut his a nice tune written with Duncan Mackay, formerly of 10CC.

This is a holiday disc you'll play again and again.

My Mistake

2010-12-16T16:30:00.000-08:00

In an earlier post I'd stated that Betty Drake's Grape of Red was being reissued....not the case. Kool Kat Musik happened ot have a few extra copies they'd found so they sold 'em. False alarm. SORRY....

An Old Friends Returns...Betty Drake

2010-12-10T17:18:00.000-08:00

A few years back, a friend who lives in Barcelona sent me a CDR and prefaced the letter that accompanied it with "You're gonna like this...". He was right. Inside the envelope was a CD by Betty Drake, a band I had never heard of. And the photocopied art did me no service as it was unreadable. But what a great record!

Years later I find myself working with this guy who is really talented and we start talking about music. I discover that, not only does he know the bands I listen to, be knows the guys in Betty Drake. He was in the Beatifics with two of them! (insert "small world" cliche here). We had a long chat about the band and the music.

Keeping a long story short, Christmas is here early. Betty Drake's second CD, Grape or Red, has been reissued by Purple Pit! Purple Pit may be Andy Schultz, I dunno. But that's neither here or there. The re-release of Grape or Red is a wonderful surprise.

Here's the vital statistics on this recording:

Personnel: Andy Schultz, vocals and guitar / Paul Novak, vocals and guitar / Heath Henjum, bass / Nate Jaqua, drums

Songs: Just Like That / Time Will Never Tell / Funny Forever / Movietown / Oh Claudine / A Place To Stay / Lock & Key / Summer Grass / Curtain Call / Last In Line / Lucky Star

This album showcases the songwriting talents of Andy Schultz and Paul Novak, both veterans of the Minneapolis powerpop scene. The songs are witty, soulful sweet. If you like the Beatifics' How I Learned To Stop Worrying you'll love this as Schults picks up right where he left off (minus Chris Dern's contributions). You can buy it at Kool kat Musik. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Rumors, Rumors...

2010-12-08T10:18:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since I last posted so please forgive me for my not so brief hiatus. Word is that if you're a Beatifics fan there is plenty to be excited about. Firstly, I got word that Betty Drake's Grape Or Red is being reissued. For those who may not remember, guitarist Andy Schultz. and bassist Paul Novak started Betty Drake from the ashes of The Beatifics and, joined by a couple of guys who's name I've forgotten (they were from a power pop band in North Dakota or something) released Grape or Red in 2002.
I've not yet seen or heard the reissue yet so I don't know if it includes any bonus cuts or extraordinary additions. I'll keep you posted.

Also, rumor has it Randy Seals of Beatifics fame has an upcoming release. AND, Records fans will be thrilled with another offering from John Wicks. More on those very soon!

Marketing At It's Best

2010-10-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

For Harry Nilsson Fans

2010-10-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the new Harry Nilsson film? I hear it's a must see. Check out this little piece about it....

Brian Eno is back!!

2010-10-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, he's not exactly power pop, but he has had such an influence on so many great bands in the 70's, 80's, 90's, right up to today. Well, here's the news....
Brian Eno is returning after many years spent as mostly a producer with "Small Craft on a Milk Sea", and the first single from said album has just hit the net. Small Craft on a Milk Sea is due out on Nov. 2.

Check out a sound sample HERE.

Our Little Secret....but not for long.

2010-09-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

Out of nowhere comes Edward OConnell with one the the best albums of the year, Our Little Secret. Equal parts Elvis Costello and Tom Petty, OConnell has managed to meld the two influences into his very own sound, not too derivative of either. Acres of Diamonds starts the disc off to a rip roaring start but the coup de grace is the fourth cut on the album, Happy Black. My sole criticism of the disc is that its all at roughly the same tempo throughout, but I'm willing to deal with that one shortcoming in exchange for this collection of brilliant pop tunes crafted like they used to back in the day when guitars jangled and we still wanted that irresistible pop hook. Rates as...BUY IT...NOW!

The Real Elvis

2010-08-24T05:28:00.000-07:00

Check out this sound clip....it's Elvis Presley getting down and dirty. I have no idea where or when the show was. Someone went me this soundclip and there is no doubt that it's the king. In all his glory. Check it out here.

Some Exciting New Releases

2010-08-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

There are new releases on the horizon from some of Power Pop's best alltime performers. September will bring us new material from Paul Collins and Dom Mariani (DM3, Stems), rarities from Ultimate Fakebook, and a new one from Peter Case (this is actually a June release). Look for reviews shortly!

Join The Beat Army!

2010-08-06T05:28:00.000-07:00

Paul Collins is at it again...sign us up!

join the beat army from bobby A on Vimeo.

News of a Graham Parker film bio

2010-08-06T05:24:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite songwriters and performers of all time, Graham Parker, is the subject of a much awaited film bio. The filmmaker needs a bit more cash to bring this to fruition so they're actively fundraising. More info to come.

John Hiatt put on one helluva show

2010-07-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Last night we saw and heard one of America's songwriting treasures, John Hiatt. He performed with is new band, billed as John Hiatt & The Combo, and they were truly fantastic as Hiatt plowed through one classic after another. Starting with "Slow Turnin'" Hiatt had everyone into it from the start. "Cry Love" was next. Two songs and two classics...and they'd barely warmed up. He launched into some of the new songs then and, if memory serves, performed the first cut off of the new LP, "The Open Road", this song being the title cut, followed by "Homeland".

Then, for this blues enthusiast, things got REALLY good. The band followed up with "Like A Freight Train" which reminds me of a Muddy Waters number and "My Baby", a new classic if there is such a thing.

We heard many of the favorites including "Tennessee Plates", "Your Dad Did", and "Have A Little Faith In Me". The crowd loved it and the band clearly enjoyed the crowd's enthusiasm.

The band came out for an encore and performed two songs, one being "Riding With The King", a song BB King and Eric Clapton covered a few years back and one of the best songs of the last 30 years in this blues enthusiast's estimation. In fact, it occurred to me that this was one of those rare shows where I could identify each and every song the band played with the moment in my life when I'd first heard it. It was a truly special night.

I'm writing this as a "flow of consciousness" thing before I lose certain details, so I'll add additional details as I recall it. One thing is for sure, I will never feel more at home than I felt last night listening to the soundtrack to my life.

Go see John Hiatt if you have not already. It's quite a feeling. The new album is called "The Open Road". Go buy it.

Another favorite...John Wicks and Paul Collins

2010-07-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

Enjoy...

A favorite Buzzcocks song/video.....

2010-07-09T07:13:00.001-07:00

Tommy Hoehn Passes On

2010-07-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Memphis musician and power-pop scene staple Tommy Hoehn has died.

Hoehn, known for his solo work and collaborations with Big Star members Alex Chilton and Chris Bell, had been battling cancer for the past year. The 55-year-old Hoehn died on Thursday night at Methodist University Hospital in Memphis.

The Importance of the Sex Pistols

2010-07-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

They reminded us that Rock and Roll didn't have to be pretentiously deep, that it could be fun again....and slightly dangerous. That's what was truly great about The Great Rock n Roll Swindle that was the Sex Pistols. I was reminded of this after a brief conversation I had with a co-worker today (okay, actually she's my boss).

The Sex Pistols are only slightly less responsible for Rock N Roll's return to the masses than The Ramones (and maybe Screeching Weasel). They almost single handedly returned us from the musical wasteland known as Prog Rock and the tedium known as the Grateful Dead.

Too bad it had to end. In the eternal words of John Lydon, "Ever feel like you've been cheated?". Indeed.
Thank You, boys.

Top 40 PowerPop Bands Of All Time

2010-06-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

This by no means an absolute list but the best 40 bands I can think of off the top of my head. Note that all these bands are post British Invasion. This is on purpose as this list could easily be comprised on solely 60's bands like The Beatles, The Who, The Kinks, etc. That would be pointless. Anyway, here they are:

1. Badfinger
2. The Raspberries
3. XTC
4. The Records
5. The Knack
6. Material Issue
7. Big Star
8. Nick Lowe
9. Cheap Trick
10. The Plimsouls
11. Sugar
12. Super Deluxe
13. The Ramones
14. The Heats (aka Heaters)
15. The Sweet
16. Paul Collins Beat
17. The Nerves
18. Squeeze
19. The Blow Pops
20. Greenberry Woods
21. Fountains of Wayne
22. Jellyfish
23. The Posies
24. The Romantics
25. Hoodoo Gurus
26. DM3 / Someloves
27. 20/20
28. 92 Degrees
29. Emmitt Rhodes
30. Buzzcocks
31. The Spongetones
32. Split Endz
33. The dB's
34. Bram Tchaikovsky
35. Eddie and the Hot Rods
36. The Chevelles
37. The Red button
38. Velvet Crush
39. The Beatifics
40. Weezer

Honorable mention: The Flashcubes, Dwight Twilley, The Jumpers, Owsley, IKE, Knit Delicate, Lackloves, Myracle Brah, Copperpot, Wondermints, Windbreakers, Jumping Windows, Shoes, Evelyn Forever, Chewy Marble.

Will Owsley Passes Away

2010-06-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

Singer and guitarist Will Owsley, a power-pop solo artist and guitarist for Amy Grant and Shania Twain, died Friday, April 30. Owsley was pronounced dead at Williamson County Hospital in Franklin, Tenn. around midday. According to the Tennessean, the 44-year-old's death was "an apparent suicide."

New Release From Major Labels

2010-06-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

Talk about a "blast from the past". Many years ago in Syracuse NY I spent numerous hours, significant money, and many brain cells going from one bar to another to hear the best powerpop bands the town had to offer. This guy, "Ducky" Carlisle seemed to show up a lot. Bands like The Flashcubes, Screen Test, and The Most occupied my Saturday nights and turntable and "Ducky" seemed to somehow be involved with all of them as a producer or other.

So I was quite surprised when I stumbled upon the name Ducky Carlise recently. This is not the first time I "stumbled" upon Ducky by the way, as I believe I once threw up on his shoes after a Most show in 1979...I doubt he'll ever read this, so I'm safe. Anyway, I digress...It appears he has teamed up with a couple of his powerpop cohorts to produce a new record...umm, CD (there's the age giveaway). "Aquavia" is the most fun I've had listening to a CD in quite a while. What a blast! I've only had the opportunity to listen to it once, but on first impression it was highly enjoyable. These guys have obviously been listening to a lot of Beatles and ELO records, but they don't sound overly derivative. I'll write more on this disc as I listen to it again...and again. I encourage you to buy it and help Ducky get a new pair of shoes. Later.

The Records and The Beat Meet

2010-06-06T06:28:00.000-07:00

Why does that sound x-rated? LOL! Regardless, I thought this a good time to post a clip from the highlight of last summer's concerts. John Wicks of The Records (remember the hits "Starry Eyes" and "Teenama") and Paul Collins of The Beat (remember "Rock N Roll Girl" and "All Over The World") teamed up to do some acoustic shows that were fantastic. Here's a clip from the show they did at McCabes in California last summer. They plan on doing some more this year. I've learned they've started booking shows and will once again be in CA this fall in October. Check 'em out if you can. It was a fantastic show full of back to back to back hits from my college days. Even if you're not over 45 yrs of age you'll love these songs.

A Few Excellent Recent Releases

2010-05-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

Some of these are just released, others within the past 6 months, but all are recommended. Here's the list. Go out and get 'em:

The Madd - Are Pretty Quick (Beatlesqe, but not overly derivative)
The Meadows - 1st Nervous Breakdown (The second best band in LA)
Farrah - Farrah (Their fourth effort, single is very XTC-ish)
Green Pajamas - Book Of Hours Reissue(best Psych-pop disc of the 80's)
Hoodoo Gurus - Purity of Essence (30 years and Faulkner still kicks ass)
Graham Parker - Imaginary Television (NY's Poet Laureate, or should be)
Seth Swirsky - Watercolor Days (may be the best disc of 2010)
American Professionals - The Specialist (MUCH more energy than "Faking It")
Well Wishers - Post Modern Romantic (Lots of guitars! I love this record)
Greg Pope - Popmonster (some really good singles here)

All these discs are available though Kool Kat Musik, btw.

Exile On Main Street Reissued!

2010-05-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

Many Stones reissues have hit the market over the years, often shrewdly timed to a new tour or technology. But none has matched the anticipation and nostalgia stoked by this Tuesday’s deluxe re-release treatment of “Exile,’’ which will include 10 previously unreleased tracks as well as reworked “Exile’’-era songs. For several generations of fans and critics (most of whom have radically revised their initial assessments of the album), the Stones’ 1972 opus remains the band’s definitive, enduring statement.

The New Improved Farah

2010-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

I've liked this band for a long time since 2001's "Mustache". The second full length, "Me Too" was fairly good as well as their EP which followed shortly after. They've gotten progressively better and the new release simply entitled "Farrah" is their best effort yet. Standout tracks include "Stereotype", "If You Were Mine", "Heavy Metal", and the single (if there is such a thing anymore) "Swings and Roundabouts". Imagine a heavy dose of ELO with a small dash of XTC and you get an idea how infectious "Swings and Roundabouts" is. I've heard it only twice yet I've heard the song's been sticking in my head all morning..and that's a very good thing! Highly recommended!

Roger and Malcolm

2010-04-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

This just in:
Prompted by the recent death of Sex Pistols manager and punk honcho Malcolm McLaren, film critic/writer Roger Ebert recently posted an unfinished film script
he wrote for the pioneering English punk band in the summer of 1977. Read Who Killed Bambi? Intended to be the punk version of "A Hard Day's Night", his screenplay
never made it to fruition and the film never made. Bits and peices of fopotage wound up in "The Great Rock n Roll Swindle" though.

Jim Caroll, poet and creator of "Catholic Boy" Dies

2010-04-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

Jim Carroll, the poet and punk rocker in the outlaw tradition of Rimbaud and Burroughs who chronicled his wild youth in “The Basketball Diaries,” died on Friday at his home in Manhattan. He was 60.

I've read two of Jim Carroll's books, "The Basketball Diaries" and "Living At The Movies". I highly recommend them both. "The Basketball Diaries" was exactly that, a diary of his high school years. "Living At The Movies" is a great collection of his early poetry.

One of the most memorable rock shows I ever saw was back in 1982 I believe, when I saw Jim Carroll open for The Boomtown Rats. The Rats were great, but Carroll was extraordinary. He had an incredible stage presence and from the moment he took the stage you knew you were experiencing something really special.

Bye Jim. We'll miss you.

FOW Guitarist's New Release

2010-04-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

Fountains of Wayne guitarist Jody Porter will release his solo debut Close To The Sun via Engine Room Recordings on May 11, 2010.

According to his website, the US version of Close to the Sun will include two new tracks called Twilite and Good to be Alone. Jody recorded the songs with drummer Jared Nissim throughout January 2010, in NYC.

Known for his impressive...[read more]

Nirvana Bassist Runs For Office

2010-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Former Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic has entered the race to become county clerk in Wahkiakum County, Washington, to protest the way the state elects officials.

He is running for office on behalf of the fictional Grange Party, reports Contactmusic.

He strongly...[read more here]

Ten of the Greatest LPs You've Never Heard

2010-04-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

I promise that listening to any of the LPs below will change your life forever, compelling you to quit your job and become a middle aged groupie. I urge you to check 'em out...NOW!

1) Greenberry Woods - Rappledapple
2) Randy Weeks - Sugarfinger
3) The Beatifics - How I Learned To Stop Worrying
4) Jumping Windows - Belly Of The Beast
5) The Chevelles - Girl God
6) Windbreakers - Disciples of Agriculture
7) The Heats - Have An Idea
8) Velvet Crush - Teenage Symphonies
9) The Beat Farmers - Manifold
10) The Tearaways - See The Sound

Review: The American Professionals "The Specialist"

2010-04-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

Band lead by singer/guitarist Chuck Lindo, guitar player Mike Corcoran, drummer Steve Moriarty and bass player Cheryl Hendrickson produce
an EP full of large loud guitars and catchy melodies that are sure to please any fan of power pop. This release rocks a lot harder than "Faking It", which was
kinda lame in this humble listener's opinion. This EP is a very welcomed change. The fast pace kinda reminds me a little bit of Paul Cook and Steve Jones' post Sex Pistols band The Professionals....just a bit.

No two tracks are similar and the harmonies are just right. "Jump This Train" has a bouncy beat unlike anything else on the EP although
the title track, The Specialist, is exceptional. Probably my fave on the EP is "Down Low", a reminder that it can always get worse.
This EP will leave you wanting for the full length (which is hopefully in the works).

Check these guys out or buy there EP at CdBaby.

Malcolm McLaren Dies at age 64....

2010-04-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Malcolm McLaren, the former manager of the Sex Pistols
and impresario, has died. He was 64.

McLaren had had cancer for some time. His condition recently suddenly worsened and he died this morning in New York. His body is expected to be brought home to be buried in Highgate cemetery, north London.

I never knew Mr. McLaren of course, but I'd heard an interesting story about him from John Wicks, lead singer and songwriter (along with Will Birch) of the classic powerpop band of the late 70s and early 80s, The Records. I hope I can do the story justice. Here's the way I recall John telling it....

John saw this ad in NME looking for a lead singer. He phoned up the telephone number in the ad and this guy on the other line, a guy who owns this London S&M clothing boutique starts telling me about this band he's putting together. He was very specific in what he wanted. The way John tells it he would have auditioned if it weren't for Mr. McLaren's last stipulation...that he cut his hair. There is no way Wicks was cutting his hair for anyone! The conversation ended there. It was a few years later after the Sex Pistols became popular that John put two and two together and figured out that he had been on a phone interview with Mr. McLaren for the job John Lydon would later fill so very well. From this story its easy to see that McLaren was a man with a vision, a specific plan that he could see through according to his specification...one of the rare breed of entrepreneur who could succeed on his own terms. A very rare breed indeed.

That's my Malcolm McLaren story and I'm stickin' to it.

Alex Chilton Leaves Us

2010-04-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

Alex Chilton, the pop hitmaker, cult icon and Memphis rock iconoclast best known as a member of 1960s pop-soul act the Box Tops
and the 1970s power-pop act Big Star, died Wednesday at a hospital in New Orleans.
Read more here....

Remembering Doug Fieger

2010-03-31T18:14:00.001-07:00

On February 15, 2010 the music world lost Doug Fieger, lead singer and songwriter of The Knack. Doug, who was best known as the voice behind the smash hit "My Sharona" passed away at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif. He was 57. Having been asked his recollections of Doug for the latest issue of PopDose online.

The full article can be found here.

Letter of Intent day and Fanfest at Syracuse

2010-02-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

Okay, it was actually national letter of intent day for several division one sports on Wednesday of this past week. With fresh faces promising their allegiance to the Orangemen this coming fall, hope springs eternal.

It just so happens that I stumbled upon some old photos from the 2002 football season's Fanfest the other day. Now you get treated to my version of my Uncle Jule's home movies....Gotta go? Well, tough luck! (if you promise to sit still there's some club soda mixed with orange juice and a bagel for you, sonny. Here they are:

I skipped work and my son skipped school (don't tell on either of us!) to visit Paul Pasqualoni and his football team for Fanfest 2002. We started out in the early morning and if memory serves we pulled into the skytop parking lot around 2 or 3 in the afternoon. The practice field is not too far from Manley Field House where we used to watch Rossevelt Bouie and Louis Orr defeat one Georgetown team after another (what...we lost one?). I can remember Jim Boeheim's plaid suit and Clive Gregson-like glasses like it was yesterday though.
Our spirits were high, anticipating the crisp air and the sound of the big hits and helmet to helmet crashes we'd soon bear witness to. But..Uh-o, we forgot....a football!! One can't get autographs without a football. One trip to Manny's on Marshall Street and $25 bucks later, problem solved!

We got back in time to catch practice, something every football fan really must experience. Whistles, yelling coaches, pads crashing against pads...it was beautiful! But the coup de grace would come soon. The players leave the practice field and then, one or a few at a time, they wonder back out to mingle with the fans who came out to get an early glimpse at the team. We met Walter Reyes, Steven Gregory, and others, all of whom were very good to us. There is no question that Coach P recruited guys of high character. I still remember Coach P remarking to my son how much he admired his new football. That's passrusher extraordinaire James Wyche with my son on the right, btw.

To the left you'll find a picture of Steve Gregory signing a football for my son. I'm told Gregory now starts for the San Diego Chargers.

Fanfest 2002 was quite a day! I don't know if Doug Marone plans the same type of thing for this August, but if so....ROAD TRIP!!!

Next post, what we learned about Carmelo, and G-Mac while at the barber shop on M Street. Stay Tuned!

John Wicks and Paul Collins at McCabes - Best of 2009

2010-01-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

I don't see as many live shows as I once did, so I have to be selective these days. That having been said, within the last year or so I've seen/heard The Cheeksters, Don Dixon, Pat DiNizio (Smithereens), Peter Case, X, Suzanna Hoffs (Bangles) and Matthrew Sweet just to name a few. While all are unique talents, some have aged better than others. As I'd mentioned in an earlier post, Suzanna Hoffs hasn't aged a bit in voice or looks, and The Cheeksters haven't been around long enough to age (although I'm hoping they will be as they were very entertaining).

None compare, however, to the experience of seeing John Wicks and Paul Collins at McCabes. With so many memorable hits in their respective back catalogs (John with The Records and Paul with The Beat), it was just one great song after another. And they seem very personable. The room wasn't quite full but it was a good crowd nonetheless, and both John and Paul seemed really appreciative of those who trucked out to Santa Monica on a sunny Sunday Afternoon to see and hear them. They were conversational from the start, sharing humorous stories between the trunk full of hits each singer/songwriter carries with him from town to town.

For powerpop afficionado the coup de grace came when Peter Case stepped onstage to join the guys for a few songs. Again, the stories flowed and the hits kept on coming.

After the show they ventured out to say "hello" to those in the crowd, taking time for friendly conversation with those who hung around a few minutes after.

Here's a video from the performance where the guys play one of John's hits with The Records called "Hearts Will Be Broken" from the second LP entitled "Crashes":

If you want more info on John, Paul, or what they're doing together stop by here:

John Wicks and Paul Collins Official Website

John Wicks and The Records Official Website

Paul Collins Beat Official Website

The 12 Days of Christmas in NJ is in stores!!

2010-01-03T06:10:00.001-08:00

What's all this fuss about the healthcare bill, terrorism, and the supposed global warming when there's something truly important going on...my book is out!! Published by Sterling Publishing, it's a children's book about, well, Christmas in New Jersey. Retailing for $12.99 before Christmas, I did what any recession period children's book artist does...I scoffed up five copies after the holiday at a discounted price. So get to a Banrnes & Noble near you. Okay folks, calm down. Don't start a Wallmart style stampede.

Best Releases of 2009

2009-12-27T19:20:00.000-08:00

1) The Tripwires - House To House
2) Valley Lodge - Semester at Sea
3) Young Fresh Fellows - I Think It Is
4) The Leftovers - Eager to Please
5) Willie Nile - House of a Thousand Guitars
6) Greg Pope - Pete (EP)
7) The DomNicks - Hey Rock N Roller
8) Bruce Springsteen - Working on a Dream
9) Kyle Vincent - Where You Are
10) Cheap Trick - The Latest

Hangin' With The Power Pop Elite

2009-11-21T09:23:00.001-08:00

Okay, the picture to the left is really blurry, but take my word for it. That's me and Matthew Sweet. Today's post is brought to you by the letter "S", as in Syd and Susie. Let me explain.

A couple of weeks back I went to Carrboro to see Matthew Sweet and Suzanna Hoffs of the Bangles perform songs from their "Covers 2" release. I'm actually quite the Bangles fan and have always liked Matthew Sweet's work as well. A friend gave me the heads-up on the show. What I hadn't realized was that he was playing bass for "Syd and Susie", as they are calling themselves on this tour.

Dennis Taylor of John Wicks and The Records is an incredible talent, as anyone who was at the show can attest. Little did I know that Paul Chastain would also be performing with them, adding not only his expert guitar but this vocal support as well.

It was a fantastic show, one I would highly recommend. But what was noteworthy was the after show happenings. The Bangles manager, John Calucci, stopped by to say "hello" earlier in the show and make sure I had a good seat where the acoustics were best. What an absolutely great guy. After the show Dennis waved me into the back room to say "hi" to Matthew and Suzanne. I'd never met them before and, having been bitterly dissapointed in meeting some of my musical "heroes" in the past, I'd become a bit cynical. A good friend of mine, showbiz veteran and very funny comic, Lord Carrett, once said to me "Sometimes your heroes are not what you expect them to be". Truer words have never been spoken, but fortunately in this case they didn't apply.

I had the opportunity to speak with Paul Chastain first. I've always been a HUGE Velvet Crush fan (Teenage Symphonies is one of my most played CDs) and had a great conversation with him. He's friendly and approachable and shared a story with me about arriving at Mitch Easter's studio to record the record. I hope I tell this right....He asked Mitch why there was a large cable leading out to the corn field in back of the studio, to which Mitch replied "That's where we recorded Micheal's (Stipe) vocals", presumably for REM's Gardening at Night. A great guy with great stories, that's all I can say.

Dennis then brought me in to meet Matthew and Suzanna. Matthew was sitting down on a couch in a darkly lit make-shift room, complete with half-working lamps and a fridge full of Coke (or diet Coke, I'm not sure). He was approachable and talkative. We spoke about numerous things from his website to the next recording. The real interesting information came when Mitch Easter walked in. I had always admired Mitch's work but had never met him. I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real. Matthew Sweet, Suzanna Hoffs, and Mitch Easter in the same room....with me! Mitch and Matthew started to speak about the next record so after eavesdropping a bit I took the opportunity to excuse myself and say "hi" to Suzanna.

A few immediate observations....my first thought was, how does such a big voice come from such a small person? Secondly, I thought "she hasn't aged a bit". It was a darkly lit room, but there was no mistaking the fact that she still looks, well, fantastic.

I commented that I thought the show was really fun. That's the best word for it, fun. There were some gaffs, what with it being the first show of the tour, but Suzanne and Matthew have a repore that always puts you on their side, like we're all friends and all in this together. And we, the audience, couldn't get enough of it. When I shared this thought she seemed genuinely surprised and modest. How refreshing!

My sincere thanks to Dennis Taylor and John Calacci, two VERY talented, wonderful people, who have a way of making everyone they deal with feel special.

In closing, here's a photo I took of Mitch Easter and Suzanna Hoffs. Again, the room was very dark, so I apologize for the bad quality of the photo...also, my cell phone takes shi**y pictures. In closing, if you can catch these two on this tour, DO SO. It's wonderful people doing a wonderful show.

92 Degrees, an overlooked classic

2009-10-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

If your a fan of Shoes, you'll like these guys even more. Not quite as tame as Shoes but with a similar knack for catchy hooks and multi-layered harmonies, these guys produced a debut that I still listen to often. On the Black Vinyl label and produced by Jeff Murphy, it's consistent with the Chicago power pop sound of bands like Shoes, Material Issue, and Cheap Trick...with a lot more in common with Shoes than the later two.

The band consists of Mike Galassini on vocals and bass,
Steve Steffens on lead vocals and guitar, and Dane Svoboda on drums.
Standout tracks include: I've Been Thinking of You, I'm Telling You Now, Sharon Won't, In Her Glow, and She'll Never Know. If you should find this in teh cut-out bin of your local Wal-Mart grab it. It's a keeper.

Nu Look From An Old Dog

2009-10-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

If you're familair with North Carolina pop, you know Don Dixon is a giant among giants. Even if you're not familiar with North Carolina pop, you know Don Dixon's work. He's produced hit records for the Smithereens and Marshall Crenshaw among other. I was amazed at what a soulfull voice he has when I last saw him in concert.

His new record (which is actually over a year old) is a collection of pieces written by himself with several contributions from other NC luminaries. You'll hear songs by Jamie Hoover (Spongtones) and Hollsapple/Stamey (dB's) as well as Dixon's originals. There's also a few old blues covers that are really outstanding.

This disk comes highly recommended to anyone who's taste straddles the line between pop and soul. If that's you, pick this one up right away.

PS-Don Dixon performs in Winston Salem NC tonight at The Garage. If you're in the neighborhood don't mess it.

House of a Thousand Guitars...Thanks A Million!

2009-10-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

I must admit that I've never been a Willie Nile fan. I'd heard very little of his music and I was under the impression that he was nearly a Dylan / Springsteen knock-off. Boy, was I wrong. Someone sent me the latest release (thanks, Gary!) and I figured that it couldn't hurt to give it a listen. House of a Thousand Guitars is nothing short of a top notch pop record.

I never thought of Willie Nile as pop. I doubt if he does. This collection of songs runs the gamit from protest songs to anthems, to introspective pieces...and they're all outstanding. But I'm a pop guy so it's those songs that I focus on. While you may think of Nile in terms of Dylan like protest songs or Springsteen like social commentary, this guy writes pop hooks that stick like bubblegum. You can't ignore it. The irresistible "Her Love Falls Like Rain" makes me think of Tom Petty, who's songwriting has as much in common with Nile as anyone else in my estimation. In fact, had the Traveling Willburys done this song we'd all be hearing it on the radio as it would be in constant rotation. The anthemic "Give Me Tomorrow" is likely about the hope and promise of a new administration in Washington (a viewpoint I do not share, by the way) but one can't deny how catchy this song is, with a hook that will grab you and carry you away until you find yourself shouting along "Give me tomorrow, nah, nah, nah, Give me tomorrow, nah nah nah, Give me tomorrow nah, nah nah, right now". Great stuff. Nile and power pop mutually exclusive? I think not! Give "Magdalena" a listen and tell me you couldn't see the Romantics doing that number. With another undeniable hook you simply cannot escape, you'll be humming this one for days. In short, go out and buy this CD. It's an order.

Charlotte Pop Festival 2009...Well Worth It

2009-09-27T04:03:00.000-07:00

I traveled two and a half hours for the much anticipated Charlotte Pop Festival, and my experience was nothing of what I had expected. Firstly, the festival is done in cooperation with the city and takes place at Freedom Park, a gorgeous piece of real estate. Beautiful lakes and foliage surround you, and it's so very well kept. Parking is easy as everything is well organized and directed by the police officers on duty.

Although there were a lot of kids particularly around the stage where the bands play, it's a family friendly atmosphere with food vendors throughout serving everything from chicken kabobs to italian sausage to soft-serve ice cream.

Now to the important stuff, the music. I arrived about the time Scott's Garage went on, and they were a pleasant surprise. I had come primarily to see the Jellybricks and The Singles, so I wasn't prepared for the "lesser" bands (and I use that term VERY loosely) being so good. They had the requisite guitar jangle and the harmonies were good, everything one expects from a good power pop band. Things got off to a great start, then it started to POUR down rain. I ran for cover but still caught a glimpse of several other bands, one of which really stood out. The Star Explodes were excellent. It was raining so hard you could almost hear the rain hitting the sidewalk more-so than the sound coming from the amps, but The Star Explodes produced a full sound and had great songs. Check these guys out when you can.

The torrential rains forced the end of the show at that point. I never got to see the Singles or the Jellybricks (The Singles seem to have been removed from the roster for the day). Still, it was time and travel well worth it. Next year, I'm in for the full three day festival package.

Spain doesn't only have great food......

2009-09-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a new release on the best power pop label in Spain, Rock Indiana, by a band called Collection 2....I think. I've only had the chance to give this two or three listenings, and I always hate bands who attempt to sing in something other than their native language...but these guys are GOOD. If I were to describe them in a word, it would be "Jangly Ramones". Okay, so that's two words. Wise-ass. The disc starts out with guitars a janglin' on the Plimsouls / Paul Collins influenced She Said She Loves Me, what would have been a natural single. Beat Me Up could be a Ramones out-take if it weren't for the guitars (which I LOVE), and the beginning of The Swing Time made me think I was about to hear the Ramones doing Needles and Pins (Remember that one?). All in all, a very nice effort.

Pleased To Meet Me....uh, You.

2009-09-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, this is my first post, so please be gentle. The title of this post has nothing to do with The Replacements, I just needed a way to say "hello"... Anyway, I thought I'd start this blogging adventure with a post about a disc I really like. But then I'm not a writer by trade, so I figure I'll begin by borrowing a couple of reviews from some writers I really admire, John Borrack and David Bash. By the way John, I really enjoyed your history of Power Pop book (available thru Not Lame) and David, I really dig that black hat. I'll put links to their respective sites as soon as I figure out how.

Here's what these guys had to say about Chewy Marble's "Modulations"...

After a long hiatus, pop whiz kids Chewy Marble are back in the
game with Modulations. Brian Kassan still writes wonderful tunes,
Stu Forman still sings them with an understated grace and pop stalwarts
such as Nelson Bragg, Jim Laspesa and Don Mogill lend instrumental support.
The addition of Kassan as an alternate lead voice lends power to obviously
heartfelt compositions such as "Hey Dad," a love letter to Kassan's late
father, and "Somewhere Else," a scathing breakup song.

--John Borrack

On their third album, "Modulations", you'll find much of the kind of hooky,
melodic power-pop that has made Chewy Marble a fan favorite. The band also
expands their horizons a bit as songwriter Brian Kassan takes on lead vocals
on several of the tracks, giving the band a darker, more introspective side.
This is an album that could end up as many fans' favorite Chewy Marble disc
because of the varying hues.

--David Bash

Thanks to John and David. I'll try to be a bit more original with future posts. I hope to post often with news and reviews about new music you won't ordinarily hear on the corporate airways (in other words, you're not likely to hear any American Idol grads here....not that there's anything wrong with American Idol, mind you).