REVIEW: Sly & The Family Stone – The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967

Sly & The Family Stone – led by the late Sly Stone - were pioneering figures in the late 60’s and 70’s with their innovative blend of funk, rock, pop and soul; and revolutionary social commentary.  In celebration of Stone’s life and legacy, High Moon Records recently released a previously unreleased live album titled, The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967.  Featuring the original Family Stone lineup – highlighted by bassist Larry Graham, percussionist Greg Errico, vocalist Cynthia Robinson, saxophonist Jerry Martini, and multi-instrumentalist Brother Freddie Stone - the dynamic live recording captures a band totally locked in and ready to breakthrough;  just a year before their chart-topping single, “Dance To The Music”. 

This deluxe edition is highlighted by a 24-page booklet featuring tons of amazing photos, an in-depth essay by Grammy-nominated archivist Alec Palao, as well as incredibly insightful interviews with band members including, Sly. 

Many of the tracks recorded in March 26^th, 1967 are unique covers including lively renditions of Ben E. King’s “What Is Soul?”, Otis Redding’s “I Can’t Turn You Loose” and a fast-paced cover of the Joe Tex original, “Show Me”.  Side two opens with a rousing cover of “Baby I Need Your Loving”, originally made famous by The Four Tops.  The album opens with an original tune, an early incarnation of “I Ain’t Got Nobody (For Real)”, which would find its way onto their second album, Dance To The Music.          

The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967 is the perfect addition to Sly & The Family Stone fans’ collections as an early document of Sly and his band and a tribute to their lasting legacy.   

Stream the album here:

REISSUE: 311 – 311 (30th Anniversary)

 

90’s alt-rock legends 311 recently celebrated the 30^th anniversary of their 1995 breakthrough self-titled third album with an expanded reissue of the “Blue Album”.  Out now on Volcano/Legacy Recordings, the 2LP set is highlighted by the inclusion of seven bonus tracks, taken from their comprehensive 2015 box set, marking the first time on vinyl for these bonus songs.  Featuring a “pearlized” embossed gatefold sleeve, the reissue is available on limited edition citrine or smoky blue vinyl. 

311 finally made the jump to mainstream success with the release of their self-titled album in July of 1995 with their seamless and unique blend of radio-ready rap, rock and reggae.  Singles such as “Down”, “All Mixed Up” and “Don’t Stay Home” were in rightfully in heavy rotation on MTV and rock radio and the Nebraska-based band – featuring Nick Hexum, SA, Chad Sexton and P-Nut - remain rock royalty, touring every year and have released 14 studio albums. 

Of the 7 bonus tracks, a few stand out including, the astro-disco grooves of “Gap”, the insanely infectious hooks of “Outside”, the fun and funny “Juan Bond” and the warped, mud-thick version of “Firewater (Slo Mo)”.  Be sure to grab this 30^th anniversary edition of 311! 

For more info: https://311.com/

Relive the video for “Down” here:

Stream the standout bonus track “Juan Bond” here:

REVIEW – skymender – skymender EP

 D.C.-based quintet skymender recently returned with a new, 4-song self-titled EP on Steadfast Records -  recorded earlier this year with legendary producer J. Robbins (Jawbox, Government Issue) - available on CD and very limited edition blue cassette.     

Building off of their brilliant 2023 debut album, If and Only, skymender creates a swirl of sounds where the lilting dream-pop melodies created by the male/female vocals of guitarist Kenny Grose and Ashley Scurto soar above molasses-thick shoegaze textures.  Standout tracks include the opener, “u.s.s.r.”, with its nostalgia-inducing 90’s vibes and stop-start rhythm, and the aptly-titled, “billows” with its hazy, smoke-thick atmospherics, chugging rhythm and cloud-scraping vocal melodies.    

So far, skymender hasn’t missed; delivering the goods once again and once again blurring the lines between blissful melody and chaotic noise. 

For more info, https://steadfastrecords.net/blogs/artists/skymender

Stream skymender EP here:

REISSUE: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Self-Titled (20th Anniversary)

 

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s excellent eponymous debut album.  To celebrate the band has self-released via a partnership with Secretly Distribution, a limited deluxe gatefold edition of the album on clear 140g vinyl with yellow, white and pink splatter.  The deluxe package also includes a 7” flexidisc featuring the original 2004 version of standout track, “Heavy Metal” as well as peel-off stickers on the “design your own” album cover. 

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah was released seemingly out of nowhere in 2005 and found immediate success from indie music blogs that touted their fun, ambitious and eccentric sound.  The band, led by Alec Ounsworth - and his unique voice - created a new brand of “kitchen-sink” indie rock beholden to Bob Dylan and Brian Eno and everything in between; with wobbly sea shanties (see, the carnival-barking opening track) and strange synths making their way into the raw yet immediately catchy indie-pop songs.  Standout tracks include, “Let The Cool Goddess Rust Away” with its buzzing, bass-led rhythm and the shuffling, danceable beat and bright, bendy guitar melodies of “The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth”; as well as “Is This Love” with its frantic energy, bubbling bass and ear-worming, sing-along refrain.     

For more info or to order: https://www.cyhsy.com/

Watch the newly-created video for “The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth” (the album’s first ever official music video) below; it was co-directed by filmmaker David M. Helman and David Henry. 

REVIEW: Goose – Everything Must Go

Connecticut-based jam band Goose recently released their eagerly-awaited fourth studio album, Everything Must Go; out now as a 3-LP set via Denver’s No Coincidence Records. 

Led by the lead single, “Give It Time”, with its spirit-lifting lyrics and tumbling tom-heavy percussion; the new album is chock full of their unique blend of prog-rock, funk, folk and indie rock.  Standout track, “Dustin Hoffman” follows with a lithe funk groove offset by blasts of horns and a danceable rhythm.  Next, “Your Direction” takes the band down a familiar path with sunny, laid-back melodies and “Thatch” provides another spaced-out funk jam.     

Later, “Animal” weaves in flutes and other World Music atmospherics for another standout moment.  “Red Bird” offers both acoustic drums and 80’s drum programming alongside shimmering synths and a sing along chorus.  “California Magic” sounds more like it was born in Louisiana with its swampy groove and liberal use of horns.  Finally, the last standout track, “Iguana Song” should prove to be an instant live favorite with its slippery rhythm and long, improv-ready jam that ends the song.       

While the initial album announcement was sullied a bit by the accompanying news of percussionist Jeffrey Arevalo’s abrupt departure, Everything Must Go breaks through the negativity with a positive message and another solid collection of songs that  - along with their beloved live show - cements their place at the top of their genre.

For more info and tour dates: https://www.goosetheband.com/

Stream Everything Must Go here:

 

REVIEW: focused – Devil’s Kiss EP

 

Out today on Steadfast Records is Devil’s Kiss, a 3-song EP from 90’s Christian hardcore band Focused.  The three tracks were recorded in 2000 during a short reunion and were previously only released as MP3s.  Steadfast gives this piece of unflinchingly heavy hardcore history its first physical release in the form of limited edition cassette, 7” vinyl and CD.  Originally produced by Bob Waddington in 2000, the songs were recently remixed and remastered by Steven Dail of Project 86. 

Led by the title track, the EP is a beast of 90’s era metallic hardcore that shows why this Southern California band was so influential to the Christian hardcore scene.  “Devil’s Kiss” opens with a haunting intro before unleashing righteous fury as vocalist Tim Mann bludgeons his vocal cords for our enjoyment.  The aptly-titled, “We’re Here To Show You How” follows and does just that with anthemic propulsion.  The EP closes out with the emotionally-charged “Fighting For A Soul” with its vulnerable yet passionately uplifting lyrics and matching guitar churn.   

For more info and to order: https://steadfastrecords.net/                  

Stream “Devil’s Kiss” here:

REVIEW: Rage Against The Machine – Live On Tour 1993

 In case you missed it, Epic/Legacy Recordings issued a new live Rage Against The Machine album as part of their Record Store Day offerings in April.  Simply titled, Live On Tour 1993, the double LP features three sides of raw and unmixed previously unreleased live performances taken from their first world tour.  As an added bonus, the fourth side features an etching of the flag draped over Tom Morello’s guitar amp. 

The 10-song track list follows in order their self-titled debut album; as the perfect companion to the legendary original.  Many cities and countries are represented with recordings taken from Paris, Toronto, Milan, Chicago, Atlanta and D.C., among others.  Included are meaningful song intros and dedications from vocalist Zach De La Rocha, for example, he dedicates “Bullet In The Head” to those fighting the war in the Persian Gulf at the time.  Elsewhere, Morello improvises on his already wildly creative guitar solos, for unique takes on the well known and loved songs. 

For those that were there and for those that weren’t, the intense and incendiary Live On Tour 1993 provides the perfect raw document to Rage Against The Machine’s beginning.  A must have! 

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18521

Though not from this release, listen to one of my favorite R.A.T.M. songs here: 

REISSUE: Shudder To Think – Pony Express Record

 

This review first appeared on Icon Fetch here: https://iconfetch.com/reviews/record-store-day-preview-shudder-to-think-pony-express-record-review 

Record Store Day is on Saturday, April 12 this year and Epic/Legacy Recordings is offering up a 30^th anniversary edition of Pony Express Record, the major label debut from D.C. alt-punk band Shudder To Think.   Originally released in 1994, this new edition is sourced from the original tapes and pressed onto vinyl for the very first time in the United States.  The expanded 2-LP set is presented on crystal clear vinyl and features 5 bonus rare live 2-track recordings from 1994 that revisit their independent catalog. 

Shudder To Think emerged from the D.C. based Minor Threat and Dischord Records-led hardcore scene of the 80’s with an experimental post-punk sound all their own.  The unorthodox yet highly-influential band - led by dynamic vocalist/guitarist Craig Wedren’s vivid vibrato and glam-inspired falsetto – blended unpredictable rhythms that stop and start on a dime and touches of jazz and metal with angular art-rock and sometimes dramatic, off-kilter power-pop melodies. 

Pony Express Record was produced by Ted Nicely (Fugazi, Jawbox) and mixed by Andy Wallace (Rage Against The Machine, Nirvana) and features the album-opening single, “Hit Liquor” with its slinky staccato groove and noisy freak-outs; alongside standout tracks such as “Kissi Penny” with its soaring vocals and guitars that alternate between a serene shimmer and a crooked crunch as well as their defining, critically-acclaimed single, “X-French Tee Shirt” and the romantic, jazz-inspired vibes of “Own Me”.

Alongside the original album, side D features the bonus tracks, “Heaven Here”, “Baby Drop”, “Lies About The Sky, “Day Ditty” and is highlighted by fan-favorite, “Red House”; all which were recorded live to 2-track tape in January of 1994 and are songs previously released via Dischord Records prior to their signing to Epic Records.      

On the heels of Pony Express Record, Shudder To Think also released the amazing album 50,000 B.C. in 1997, and the First Love, Last Rites Motion Picture Soundtrack in 1998 – the latter of which is also available on vinyl from Legacy for Record Store Day this year.

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18514

Watch the video for “X-French Tee Shirt” here:

REVIEW: My Morning Jacket – is

 

My Morning Jacket recently released their 10^th album, titled, is, via ATO Records.  After self-producing for years, the band brought in producer Brendan O’Brien (Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen) who was able to showcase the long-running band’s numerous strengths, including their warped experimentalism, resulting in a 10-song collection of some of their best songs in years. 

is opens with the stirring “Out In The Open” with its driving rhythm and soaring vocal melodies before giving way to standout track, “Half A Lifetime” with its jagged beat and catchy, sing-along vibe.  The album is led by the uplifting lead single, “Time Wasted” which incorporates a gorgeous piano part sampled from an album by pedal-steel player Buddy Emmons.  Other standouts include the easy-going 50’s rock romanticism of “I Can Hear Your Love” and the slinky funk/psych-rock hybrid “Squid Ink”.  

With is being released the same year as My Morning Jacket’s celebrated experimental album, Z, celebrates its 20^th anniversary, fans of the band can revisit Z and listen to the excellent new album and fall in love all over again. 

For more info, https://www.mymorningjacket.com/

Watch the video for “Squid Ink” here:

REVIEW: Dave Matthews Band – Where Are You Going – The Singles

Recently released via Bama Rags/RCA/Legacy Recordings is a new singles collection by Dave Matthews Band titled, Where Are You Going – The Singles.  The 2-LP set collects 22 tracks spanning 1994 to 2023, in honor of the recent induction into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame.    

The A side is loaded with beloved hits from their 1994 major label debut album, Under The Table And Dreaming, including, “What Would You Say”, “Ant Marching” and “Satellite”.  Rounding out the first side is “Too Much” and “Two Step” from their breakthrough 1996 sophomore album, Crash.  Side B opens with Crash cuts “Tripping Billies”, “Crash Into Me” and “So Much To Say”.  The last two songs come from 1998’s Before These Crowded Streets; “Stay (Wasting Time)” and “Don’t Drink The Water”.

The first side of the second LP opens with “Crush”, the remaining of the five singles taken from Before These Crowded Streets.  Oddly, the electrified Dylan-like divisive lead single, “I Did It” is omitted but the other three singles from their fourth album, Everyday are included; “The Space Between”, “When The World Ends” and the title track.  Also included are “Grey Street” and “Where Are You Going” from Busted Stuff.  The D side features the more recent DMB singles, starting with “Dreamgirl”, taken from, 2005’s Stand Up and “You & Me” and “Funny The Way It Is” represent 2009’s Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King.  “Mercy” stands in for Away From The World, the band’s eighth album.  Completing the singles compilation is “Madman”, the lead single from their most recent album, 2023’s Walk Around The Moon, as well as “Samurai Cop (Oh Joy Begin)” from Come Tomorrow, released in 2018.     

Housed in a gatefold cover, the album design harkens back to Dave’s South African heritage with embossed elephants printed along the bottom.  Dave Matthews Band’s Where Are You Going – The Singles is the perfect introduction to new listeners and the perfect companion for longtime fans.     

For more info: https://davematthewsband.com/

In honor of this singles collection, I will throwback to my 3 Songs: On Repeat feature with my 3 favorite songs from Where Are You Going.  Enjoy!

“So Much To Say”:

“Crush”:

“Samurai Cop (Oh Joy Begin)”:

REVIEW: Fullbloods – Playing It Safe

K.C.-based multi-instrumentalist/singer-songwriter Ross Brown (Shy Boys, Snacky) records and performs as Fullbloods and returns with Playing It Safe, his long-awaited new album, out now on High Dive Records.  The excellent new album is built upon Brown’s blissful, 70’s-inspired indie-pop melodies, strange synths, funk textures and elements of folk-pop for another lushly-layered musical trip.   

Standouts include the groovy album opener, “Troubleshooter” with its funky bass, stabbing synths and lead guitar heroics; and the single, “Fish In A Bowl” with its sly lyrics and layered vocal melodies over a bubbly beat.  The more solemn and subdued “Writing It Down”, features cyclical finger-picked acoustic guitar and weeping slide guitar melodies for a change of pace.  Later, “Warrior 2” and “No Hesitation” both stand out with their thick yet effervescent 80’s-inspired synth-bass lines and catchy melodies.

Ross Brown’s studio project Fullbloods and new album Playing It Safe is what makes music so much fun; equal doses of instantly familiar nostalgia and wild sounds and memorable melodies that bring a smile to your face.        

For more info: www.fullbloods.com & https://www.highdivekc.com/bands/fullbloods/

Watch the video for “Fish In A Bowl”:

REVIEW: Riot For Romance – Learning To Unburden Myself

 

In case you missed it, Valentine’s Day saw the release of Learning To Unburden Myself, the debut album from Riot For Romance, via Steadfast Records.  The Denver based trio - featuring members formerly of Underoath, Further Seems Forever and Maylene and the Sons of Disaster – delivers a stellar sound that blends post-punk rhythms and shoegaze-laced atmospherics with melancholic yet catchy alt-rock melodies and heavier post-hardcore textures to great results.

Vocalist/guitarist Jason Hansen’s higher registered vocals cut through and soar above the wall of swirling sound that bassist Brett Miotti and drummer Kelly Nunn create on the New Romantic-inspired standout, “Sitting In View”.  The previously released single, “This Way Comes (Something Wicked)” returns as does their excellent cover version of the Radiohead classic, “Karma Police”.  The instantly memorable hook that drives “For Ages” delivers another standout moment on the 8-song album.    

Riot For Romance has created a headphones-worthy debut album; put yours on and get lost in their sound. 

For more info and to order the limited edition pink vinyl, please visit: https://steadfastrecords.net/blogs/artists/riot-for-romance

Stream Learning To Unburden Myself here:

REVIEW: The Lumineers – Automatic

On Valentine’s Day, the folk-pop band, The Lumineers, led by the duo of Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites, released their highly-anticipated fifth album, Automatic, via Dualtone Records.

From the thumping album opener, “Same Old Song” with its soaring refrain to the piano-led title track, Schultz and Fraites once again showcase their expert ability to craft emotion and capture feeling in their songwriting.  The album - co-produced by David Baron and Simone Felice – is highlighted by standout single, “You’re All I Got” with its instantly catchy and familiar chorus, along with “Plasticine” and its chiming, psychedelic atmospherics and the melancholic yet anthemic “Keys On The Table”, which circles around with a callback of the catchy hook from “You’re All I Got”.

After 20 years as a band, The Lumineers – pioneers of the 2010’s folk revival - prove with their new album, Automatic, that they remain at the top of their game. 

For more info, https://www.thelumineers.com/

Stream “You’re All I Got” here:

REISSUE: Rage Against The Machine – Democratic National Convention 2000

 In case you missed it, on Record Store Black Friday last year, Epic/Legacy Recordings reissued the infamous live set from Rage Against The Machine, recorded guerilla-style outside the 2000 Democratic National Convention.  Originally issued in 2018 as a Record Store Day exclusive, the 6-song EP was reissued due to popular demand on crystal clear 180g vinyl and limited to 5,000 copies. 

This recording is Rage Against The Machine at their most incendiary, putting their protest music into practice; as they setup across from the Staples Center in Los Angeles during the summer of 2000 during the Democratic National Convention.  The band blazed through meaningful hits such as “Bull On Parade”, “Testify” and the appropriate, “Guerilla Radio”; before ramping up to “Sleep Now In The Fire” and “Freedom”, then closing out the fiery performance with the anthemic “Killing In The Name”, whipping the crowd into a frenzy. 

Though the recording is a little raw due to the nature of the performance, Zach, Tom, Tim and Brad are at their best in this environment and this EP is testament to their legacy, both musically and politically.   

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18341

Stream “Sleep Now In The Fire” taken from, Democratic National Convention 2000 here:

TOP 5 ALBUMS OF 2024

 

Wild Pink – Dulling The Horns https://wildpink.bandcamp.com/album/dulling-the-horns

 

Adrianne Lenker – Bright Future https://adriannelenker.bandcamp.com/album/bright-future

 

Bonny Light Horseman – Keep Me On Your Mind/See You Free https://bonnylighthorseman.bandcamp.com/album/keep-me-on-your-mind-see-you-free

 

Jack White – No Name https://officialjackwhite.bandcamp.com/album/no-name

 

Kim Deal – Nobody Loves You More https://kimdeal.bandcamp.com/album/nobody-loves-you-more

REISSUE: Modest Mouse – Baron Von Bullshit Rides Again

 

In 2004, Modest Mouse released their first and only official live album as a tour-only bootleg titled, Baron Von Bullshit Rides Again.  Originally released on CD only and sold during their touring that year (I got my copy back then!) the long out of print album has been sought after by fans on the secondary market.  But on Record Store Day Black Friday, Legacy Recordings and Epic Records did us a solid and reissued the live album on vinyl and to the public for the very first time in celebration of its 20^th anniversary. 

Recorded live at The Social in Orlando in February of 2004, shortly after the release of their breakout album, Good News For People Who Love Bad News, Baron features a 10-song track list highlighted by fan favorites, “3^rd Planet”, “Interstate 8”, “Doin’ The Cockroach”, “Broke” and “The Good Times Are Killing Me”.  The best part might just be the between song stage banter from Isaac Brock, one hilarious example is when he dismisses a person in the crowd calling for a cover of “Free Bird”. 

For as much as Modest Mouse tours and is revered for their live show, it’s surprising that Baron is the only true live recording released of the band over the years.  Even more surprising is that it wasn’t widely available but now it is; Modes Mouse fan rejoice! 

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18340        

Listen to “The Good Times Are Killing Me” from the album here:

REISSUE: Hawthorne Heights – The Silence In Black And White (20th Anniversary)

Dayton, OH based emo band Hawthorne Heights celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their landmark debut album, The Silence In Black And White, with a new limited edition vinyl pressing, out now on Craft Recordings.  The 2-LP set is presented in a gatefold jacket with alternate artwork, tons of photos and expanded liner notes, including a reflective essay written by the band.  The original album comprises the first two sides and sides C and D feature early demos and live acoustic versions of album tracks.   

Hawthorne Heights hit the scene running with the release of The Silence In Black And White in 2004 with instant hit singles; the ultimate emo-anthem “Ohio Is For Lovers”, the equally anthemic and passionate “Niki FM” and the surging “Silver Bullet”.  In the years since, the band has carried the torch for “emo”, acting as ambassadors for the music scene; continuing to release amazing music and having curated the annual music festival, Emo Is For Lovers.   

This 20^th anniversary edition of The Silence In Black And White is a testament to the DIY attitude that has been at the heart of Hawthorne Heights since the beginning and a landmark for future emo-punk generations. 

To order or for more info: https://craftrecordings.com/collections/hawthorne-heights

Watch the video for “Ohio Is For Lovers” here:    

REVIEW: Kim Deal – Nobody Loves You More

 

Dayton, Ohio alternative rock legend Kim Deal of The Pixies and The Breeders just released her debut solo album, Nobody Loves You More, via 4AD Records.  On the 11 song collection, Deal pushes the boundaries of her buzzy brand of alt-rock by adding big band horns and sweeping strings, brash electronic beats and aching pedal steel.  Though a solo effort, Kim is assisted by longtime collaborators such as her sister Kelley and fellow Breeders bandmate Jim Macpherson as well as Jack Lawrence of the Raconteurs, Fay and Ayse of Savages and the late Steve Albini, who engineered 8 of the tracks.

Standout tracks on the album include the touching album opening title track, “Nobody Loves You More”, with its soaring string section and horns as well as the infectious and fun first single, “Coast” with its jangly guitars and driving horns.  Standouts on the B-side include, “Big Ben Beat” which is led by a bombastic buzzing bass line and booming electronic beat and “Summerland” with its heart-tugging nostalgia.    

With her debut solo album, Kim Deal continues to show why she is a beloved figure in the indie rock world; a true gem from the Gem City. 

For more info: https://4ad.com/artists/kimdeal

Stream “Coast” here:

REISSUE: Bush – Sixteen Stone (30th Anniversary)

Celebrate the 30^th anniversary of Sixteen Stone the debut album from 90’s alt-rockers Bush with new remastered colored 2-LP vinyl pressings, out Friday, November 22 via Craft Recordings.  Available in six new limited edition colors; opaque red, a silver indie store exclusive, translucent lemonade Best Buy exclusive, sepia Barnes & Nobles exclusive, highlighter smoke from Revolver and a “fog” colored pressing exclusive to the band’s Spotify followers.

Led by engaging and energetic frontman Gavin Rossdale, Bush took the post-grunge alternative rock mantel and ran with it in 1994 with the release of their world-conquering debut album, Sixteen Stone.  With chart-topping singles, statement-making album opener “Everything Zen”, the soaring, sing-along  “Comedown”, the heavy “Machinehead” and the post-grunge power ballad “Glycerine”, the album turned the band into one of the most successful bands of the 90’s.  As a testament to their greatness, these songs remain rock radio mainstays and probably will until the end of time!

Much like the lasting legacy of these songs, Bush endures; remaining active to this day, touring hard and releasing new albums.   

To order: https://craftrecordings.com/products/sixteen-stone-30th-anniversary-opaque-apple-red-lp?_pos=1&_sid=bbd7b3698&_ss=r

Relive the video for “Comedown” here:

REVIEW: The Cure – Songs Of A Lost World

The Cure recently released their fourteenth studio album, Songs Of A Lost World via Fiction/Capitol Records.  After a long 16-year wait, the highly-anticipated new album is their best of the four albums they have released in the 2000’s.

Opening the album is the moody “Alone” that builds; slowly churning with ethereal yet uplifting synths until Robert Smith finally breaks in with his unmistakable voice and a devastating line, “This is the end of every song that we sing”.  The album holds to a slow pace and a dark atmosphere, although, the standout single, “A Fragile Thing”, is more in line with classic Cure, beaming with a bright and memorable chorus.  Another standout “Drone:Nodrone” is driven by a funky danceable beat and heavy fuzzed-out bass line alongside jabbing piano and noisy guitar squeals.  Closing out the 8-song album is the foreboding and aptly-titled, “End Song”, though I hope to hear more from The Cure in the near future.      

It’s amazing that nearly 50 years in, The Cure remains timeless and true with a new album – Songs Of A Lost World - that holds up to their storied discography.     

For more info: https://www.thecure.com/

Listen to “A Fragile Thing” here:

REISSUE: Bad Brains – Vinyl Remaster & Reissue Campaign

 

A couple of years ago, hardcore punk pioneers Bad Brains began an extensive reissue campaign of their early albums via their re-launched Bad Brains Records.  Overseen, manufactured, distributed and marketed by ORG Music, the campaign continues and is led by their iconic self-titled debut album – originally recorded in 1981 - which sounds even better now, having been remastered by Dave Gardner at Infrasonic Mastering.   

Bad Brains’ highly-influential sound was a one of a kind blend of hardcore fury and dubbed-out reggae rhythms highlighted by the frantic vocal style of H.R. and frenzied fretwork of Dr. Know and driven by the raging rhythm section of bassist Darryl and drummer Earl Hudson.  The NYC-by-way-of-D.C. based band also delivered a politically-charged message of unity and positivity on standout songs like, “Attitude” and “I”.      

Alongside their debut, the other albums receiving the reissue treatment are I And I Survive, Rock For Light, and Quickness; along with the fan-favorite Omega Sessions and their legendary live albums, Live At The Fillmore 1982 and The Youth Are Getting Restless (Live at the Paradiso, Amsterdam, 1987).

The most recent release in the reissue series is their critically-acclaimed third album, I Against I.  Released in July of this year, the album – led by the anthemic title track with its positive message - was the perfect melting pot of all of their influences; punk, reggae and heavy metal.     

These impressive new vinyl reissues ensure that future generations will have record of one of the most influential bands in history. 

Each release is pressed onto quality black and colored vinyl and are available to order or pre-order here: https://badbrainsrecords.com/

Listen to one of my personal favorite Bad Brains songs – “Re-Ignition”, taken from I Against I:

REVIEW: Jack White – No Name

 

Earlier this summer, Jack White surprise released his sixth solo album, titled, No Name, on his own Third Man Records.  In fact, the album was recorded at his Third Man Studio and pressed onto vinyl at Third Man Pressing.  True to White’s renowned DIY spirit, No Name is an energetic and rocking set of no frills blues-punk songs, for his best solo album yet.  Thirteen years after disbanding the White Stripes, White channels his former duo as most songs rely on a simple guitar, bass and drums approach with the occasional keyboard and well placed percussion.      

The album opens with the stomping blues crunch of “Old Scratch Blues” and the heavy riffage of “Bless Yourself”, followed by the nervy bounce of the anthemic standout single, “That’s How I’m Feeling”.  Another standout is “Archbishop Harold Holmes”, on which Jack adopts a fire and brimstone preacher-barking, rap-like cadence.  Other standouts include the fast and heavy blast of hardcore punk “Bombing Out”, the funky “What’s The Rumpus?”, the scratchy staccato riffs of “Tonight (Was A Long Time Ago)” and the infectiously catchy hooks and slide guitars of “Underground”. 

After many creative curves, Jack White has given his fans the rawness and immediate catchiness of the White Stripes they have been eagerly awaiting with his stellar sixth solo album, No Name.       

For more info: https://jackwhiteiii.com/

Stream No Name here:  

REISSUE: Third Eye Blind – Blue (25th Anniversary)

 

This review originally appeared on Icon Fetch here: https://iconfetch.com/reviews/third-eye-blind-blue-25th-anniversary-vinyl-review

Celebrate “Rocktober” and the 25^th anniversary of Blue, the sophomore album from 90’s alt-rock legends, Third Eye Blind.  Out now on Rhino Records is a new limited edition 2-LP set pressed onto clear with blue splatter vinyl. 

Third Eye Blind, led by Stephen Perkins, burst onto the post-grunge scene in 1997 with one of the most successful debut albums of the decade boasting five hit singles; “Semi-Charmed Life”, “Jumper, “Graduate”, “How’s It Going To Be” and “losing A Whole Year”.  Their highly-anticipated second album, Blue, was released in 1999, led by the infinitely catchy power-pop crunch of the lead single, “Never Let You Go”. 

At the time, Blue didn’t quite live up to the lofty expectations their multi-platinum self-titled debut begot but has since garnered cult status and proved to be no “sophomore slump”.  The power ballad ballast of “Deep Inside Of You” and the heartfelt opening track, “Anything” were the other satisfying singles on the album.  But the deeper cuts like the head-bobbing bounce and arena rock riffs of “1000 Julys” and the ear-worming fan-favorite “10 Days Late” showcase why Perkins and crew were titans of the 90’s.

Third Eye Blind created ever-lasting songs that will be in radio rotation until the end of time.  Be sure to check out this limited edition 25^th anniversary pressing of Blue via Rhino Records and relive your glory days like I just did!

REISSUE: Jenny Lewis – The Voyager (10th Anniversary)

 

This review was originally posted on Icon Fetch here: https://iconfetch.com/reviews/jenny-lewis-the-voyager-10th-anniversary-vinyl-edition-review

Come celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Jenny Lewis’s excellent third solo album, The Voyager with a new limited edition vinyl release as part of Rhino Records’ “Rocktober” promotion. The album is available on translucent sea blue colored vinyl and housed in a gorgeous gatefold package.          

The former front-woman of indie darlings Rilo Kiley released her third solo effort in 2014, assisted in the studio by producers Ryan Adams, Mike Viola and Beck.  After indulging in the psychedelic rock of 2008’s Acid Tongue, The Voyager saw Lewis at her most vulnerable and real, as she grappled with life – past and present - armed with her smart, sharp-tongued brand of humor and nostalgia-tinged lyrics. 

One of the standout tracks on the album – which features impeccable production as vibrant as the suit Jenny wears on the album cover - include the single, “Just One Of The Guys”, produced by Beck who also lends his vocals to the self-deprecating track.  Other standouts include; “Late Bloomer”, on which Lewis gives her best charming Stevie Nicks impression and “The New Year”, led by guitars that shimmer and jangle like the Byrds alongside a shuffling beat.  One of my favorite songs on the album is the opening track of side two, “You Can’t Outrun ‘Em” which features the classic Casio “human voice” setting on the chorus.  I was gifted a Casio keyboard for Christmas when I was 9 years old and that unique sound was my favorite to use.

Jenny Lewis continues to impress with her chameleonic career, having just issued the fantastic Joy’All last year.  This chance to revisit The Voyager, a decade after its release, proves once again that Lewis is one of the best at what she does.      

Watch “Just One Of The Guys” here:

REISSUE: Wilco – Summerteeth (25th Anniversary)

This review originally appeared on Icon Fetch here: https://iconfetch.com/reviews/wilco-summerteeth-25th-anniversary-review

Once again, Rhino Records is offering up new limited edition vinyl reissues with their yearly “Rocktober” promotion.  One of the highlights of this year’s list - which includes offerings from Bush, INXS, Stone Temple Pilots, The Ramones and more – is Wilco’s fan-favorite third album, Summerteeth.  In celebration of its 25^th anniversary, Summerteeth is out now as a 2-LP set pressed onto opaque electric-blue vinyl.    

Originally released in 1999, Summerteeth was the perfect bridge from the early experimentation of its predecessor, Being There, to their landmark album, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.  Together, principal songwriter Jeff Tweedy and multi-instrumentalist, the late Jay Bennett, created a new sound that leaned more toward dreamy power-pop than the rustic roots rock that was the bands trademark.  This was most likely a snub to those who tried to pigeonhole the band as “alt-country”.      

Much like the standout single, “I’m Always In Love”, with its New Wave-inspired synths and rhythm and sing-along chorus and the equally bouncy “Nothing’severgonnastandinmyway (again)”; the album blends Tweedy’s dark, confessional lyrics with bright, catchy melodies and Pet Sounds-informed instrumentation with Mellotron organ, synths, timpani and horns.  Likewise, later in the album, the anthemic “ELT” and the lo-fi “Candyfloss” prove to be a pure power-pop prescription, offering a nice lift after the more solemn and serious “How To Fight Loneliness” and “Via Chicago”.

This new 25^th anniversary pressing of Wilco’s third album, Summerteeth is the perfect chance for fans to fall in love with these messy love songs all over again! 

Stream “I’m Always In Love” here: