Issues: Issue 305 - May 2014
Local Review: Echodog – Mine
Echodog reeks with potential. With a short five-track album, these locals know how to play. Each track is rock-oriented, with the exception of “Mine,” which feels more along the lines of acoustic, alternative coffee-shop rock—not that that’s a bad thing. … read more
Review: Ghetto Ghouls – Self-Titled
After surviving the brutal assault of “Peepshow,” I can see the subtle brilliance that makes Ghetto Ghouls something special. … read more
Review: Frances England – Paths We Have Worn
I can see it now: Visions of mommies on Pinterest from all over the blogosphere will pin a picture of this “indie-rocker” girl with all sorts of hashtags littering the title: #cute #seriouslyadorable #indiemusic #fashion! … read more
Review: Faderhead – Atoms & Emptiness
This is a release that invites a personal connection from the listener. There has obviously been some personal growth prior to and during the production of this album on Faderhead’s part—there is a lot of emotion put into the lyrics. … read more
Review: Feel No Other – Self-Titled
Like blind men in a theater, we’re taken through a cinematic story of sounds: Lush vistas of synth and layered orchestrations, courtesy of Brian McKenzie, pillow strong operatic vocals from Claudia Gregory, whose voice is rarely off-pitch and acts as a striking complement to the vast soundscapes. … read more
Review: Dex Romweber Duo – Images 13
Hillbilly garage punk madman Dex Romweber has been tearing up roots music since the mid ’80s when he was in the seminal Flat Duo Jets. Dex knows no fear when it comes to playing rock n’ roll. … read more
Review: Donovan Blanc – Self-Titled
Donovan Blanc are New Jersey natives and the most recent artists signed to the Captured Tracks family. Captured Tracks and New Jersey are known to provide blissed-out guitar work, and Donovan Blanc deliver. … read more
Review: Dead Rider – Chills on Glass
Imagine a funky psychedelic trip where the ‘70s meet the ‘90s, minus the angst. “Blank Screen” is a perfect description of what this band is about: smooth vocals, experimental electronic sounds and a funky rhythmic beat. … read more
Review: Curtis Harding – Soul Power
If I were a betting man, I’d wager everything I’ve got that Allen Toussaint’s Southern Nights is Curtis Harding’s favorite record. It’s a good favorite to have, too. (This review prompted me to spend the weekend listening to it). … read more
Review: Craft Spells – Nausea
With a record label that fosters the likes of Wild Nothing and Beach Fossils, it’s expectable that most Craft Spells compositions will be aimed toward the average pop-loving introvert. … read more