Hallo folks. It’s been quite a week. As we sit back and think about the invention of America, we must reflect on all the stuff we blowed up real good. I am also realizing it has almost been an entire year since I started writing these reviews. In fact my first review blog was on July 8 of last year. So, I suppose I should have waited a week to post that fact. But whatevs, I might not even blog next week. So yeah, that’s interesting. Here’s some stats for ya!
I have posted 32 blogs, with 5 reviews each, so I have reviewed 160 records. Wow. That actually surprises me. My weakest month was November, with only 1 post, but I made up for it, with 4 posts each the next two months. Overall, a successful experiment, I have felt really good, writing these and delivering you, my fans, a heaping helping of cool records to give a listen to. I hope you all have enjoyed it. Let’s make it 200 records for the next year!
Tony Cox – Unpublished – ***1/2 – A fantastic record from this guy, which in the end plays out much like a Dodgy record, using the singing and playing of Nigel. But all the songs are written by Tony Cox, which definitely gives it a new flavor. Tony seems to be a very good songwriter and producer.
The Smithereens – Play Tommy – *** – I’ve never really listened to Tommy, with the exception of Pinball Wizard. I’ve also seen a few clips from the movie, so I was well informed about it. So it’s interesting to hear this tribute first. I liked it quite a bit, there is definitely the Smithereens flair to the whole thing, which is good.
The Simple Carnival – Girls Aliens Food – ***1/2 – A really fun record, very Beach Boys/Brian Wilson-esque. I like how it kind of takes this template, which many have used, but makes it sound interesting by subverting things, both lyrically and musically. Whether it’s singing from odd persepctives, or playing strange sound effects or instruments, makes for a very interesting experience.
Michael Carpenter – Redemption #39 – *** – You really can’t go wrong with Michael Carpenter. This album carries on the great tradition of his music, adding a bit more of the alt.country elements as well. Overall a good listen, and fun album.
Former – And Nothing But The Truth – **1/2 – A nice example of this heavier pop sound, very good clean soaring rock/pop. A little on the long side, but still enjoyable. Great in small doses.
