A $1200 Glass of Wine

A word of warning – don’t drink and compute. The white wine I was drinking on Saturday night, while working on this blog, found its way to my keyboard, making it the single most expensive drink I have ever had and – God willing – ever will.

So now, with a new, smaller albeit faster, laptop, I will pick up where I left off.
RIP, shiny silver Mac powerbook. You were a good pal…

So, it’s been a month since I've written. That doesn’t seem very bloggy, does it? Sigh. Will try harder in future but, for now, must catch up with all the good stuff that came in BEFORE the trip to LA, which will be its own entry next. For now, enjoy a pic of the “House of Davids,” one of those only-in-LA architectural wonders that prove again that money is wasted on the tasteless.



Monday, June 5:
Sent:
1. BIRDMONSTER – No Midnight (self-released)
A classy package from the indie band (I’m a sucker for letterpress. Were at Black Cat on June 13th.
2. CURT KIRKWOOD – Snow (Little Dog Records)
Former meat puppet, also coming to town in July, with the Handsome Family, at IOTA.
3. A.J. CROCE – Cantos (Seedling/Redeye)
Son of the late Jim Croce, but (thankfully) a different style altogether, more of a Paul McCartney pop vibe, at least on this CD.

Purchased:
4. CASSANDRA WILSON – Glamoured (Blue Note)
Ooops. Bought this one for hubby via the YourMusic monthly queue and it turns out he already has it. I should have bought “Thunderbird.”

Saturday, June 3:
5. DAVID MEAD – Tangerine (Tallulah )

A favorite in our kitchen, and on the concert stage, as he was at Jammin Java on this night. He played solo, on the (off-pitch) piano at the club (gorgeous cover of “God Only Knows”), and on guitar and mandolin. I willingly paid $15 to but his latest at the show because I got in for free, and the guy needs to be encouraged.


Friday, June 2:
What a fun day for puffy envelopes!
6. DEVENDRA BANHART – Cripple Crow (XL)
The “freakfolk” hero was going to be part of this weeks Post preview, but I had to cut out the mention when it was announced that he’s canceling the tour (but will play Bonaroo) since the Magic Numbers had to bow out of the opening spot on his tour.
7. PAUL SIMON – Surprise (Warner Bros.)
Requested from the publicist and arrived just as I was despairing he forgot. As a longtime Eno fan, I am, or course, intrigued to hear how/if his production style meshes with Simon. Frankly, I was somewhat disappointed by the SNL performance. At first, the new songs sounded intriguing, but as they morphed and meandered, I wanted Simon, a frequently great songwriter, to make up his mind and stick with a tempo and a melody. Jury’s still out on this one,
although Terry has latched onto it as a new dinnertime favorite. The cover’s real cute, though.
BTW, who bribed who to get Simon mentioned in the recent Time magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in entertainment? That may have been true at one point, but I can’t see it now. Sorry, Paul.
8. The FRAUDS – self-titled (High Wire Music)
9. ARMA SECRETA – A Century’s Remains (Smith7 Records)
Out August 29.
10. COLLECTIVE SOUL – Home (El Music)
A Post preview, in conjunction with their appearance at the Celebrate Fairfax! Festival last weekend. This is a greatest hits live show, recorded with the Atlanta Youth Symphony Orchestra. That could be dangerous. And do I really want to hear “Shine” again?

Thursday, June 1:
11. HURRA TORPEDO – Kollossus of Makedonia (Duplex Records)
You could think of these guys as crazy Norwegian cousins to The Blue Man Group. Three dudes in royal blue tracksuits who play – and simultaneously destroy – kitchen appliances while singing songs in their native tongue, or cheesy covers like “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Pitched for the Post, since they were coming to the State Theatre, but my editor went for the aforementioned festival instead.
12. The SCOURGE OF THE SEA – Make Me Armored (Alias)
One of those albums that sounds better if you don’t listen too closely to the lyrics. Lovely, gentle melodies, but the words fall short.

Monday, May 29, 2006
Purchased (Circuit City was offering all CDs for $9.99. Too bad their selection sucks and their inventory is totally random):
13. NEIL YOUNG – Living with War (Reprise)
Of course, I am 100% behind the sentiment here. Neil is pissed and I will join him in baying at the moon against the current administration’s madness. But oh, how I wish that “Let’s Impeach the President” was a better song. Like most of the tracks here, it sounds slapped together in a rage, without the full attention needed to raise a tune above a chant. “When the President Talks to God…” now that’s a protest song! When I saw Bright Eyes at Constitution Hall, and Oberst sang that snotty wonder, I was ready to burn something down!
14. The STROKES – First Impressions of Earth (RCA)
The music is okay, maybe sometimes even really good, but I am getting sick of these boys. Emma and Grace saw them at HFStival and were less than knocked out. They said the band barely acknowledged the audience and tossed the songs off as if they had somewhere else more important to be. Some people mistake rude for cool. Add in the annoying video for “Juicebox,” and you’ve got a band that’s starting to reek of desperation.

Thursday, May 25
15. DAVY ROTHBERT – This American Life (This American Life & 21 Balloons Productions)
At the PostSecret/FOUND Magazine event, which I had previewed for the Post
I spoke with both of the featured artists beforehand. I’d met Frank Warren before, but chatting even briefly with Davy Rothbert was like reconnecting with an old pal. I handed him a copy of the article (he had heard about it, but hadn’t seen it) and was so pleased, he told me to go to the merch booth and tell brother Peter to give me a CD. Which I did. And then, after the show, which was as poignant and hilarious as I hoped it might be, I went back and got…
16. PETER ROTHBERT
Songs inspired by stuff the guys found (natch), like “The Booty Don’t Stop” and “Bus or Beer?” Singalong goofball fun.

Saturday, May 20
17. EAGLES OF DEATH METAL – Death by Sexy (Downtown Music)
Another cheap purchase (at $7.99 I can take a chance; it’s a price point thing). Saw the band perform “I Want You So Hard (Boy’s Bad News)” on Letterman and developed an earworm that had to be sated. Happy to say that the rest of the CD has the same playful hard rock sound, more like T. Rex, Weezer, or Cheap Trick than actual bone-head metal dudes.

Other purchases:
18. The RACONTEURS – Broken Boy Soldiers (Third Man/V2)

I was hoping to score a press ticket for the show last week at the Henry Fonda Theatre (what would Henry say?), but that didn’t happen. Instead, I finangled my way into the free-instore show at Amoeba Records and got a great half-hour (the CD isn’t much longer than that) and some good concert pics. And now I’m hooked on “Steady as She Goes.”
BTW, when I first heard the band, I didn’t realize the Jack White/Brendan Benson pedigree. I reacted to the music and liked it lots (RollingStone.com has some nice live footage available). So it ain’t just about the hype, folks.
And it's nice to see that Jack White really does seem to have fun when he's playing.

19. WOLF PARADE – Apologies to the Queen Mary
At first listen, I thought it was a new Arcade Fire album. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. Now let’s see if repeat exposure can open up some new doors and give the Parade its own divine spark.
20. UNCUT – The Playlist June 2006
A particularly good example of the magazine freebie, with tracks by Siouxie and the Bansheees, The Waterboys, Fiery Furnaces and some new friends.
21, 22. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (KCRW)
I gave my money to KCRW ‘cause I frequently listen to “Morning Becomes Eclectic” and I thought the Fringe Benefits card would come in handy on my trip to LA (and it did). And they sent me two separate copies of my bonus premium. An old-world Hollywood all-star cast – Malcolm McDowell, Elliott Gould, Michael York - with narration by Harry Shearer, - retells the classic kids' (??) story.

And lots of other acquisitions via the mails:
23.VELVET – The Juggernaut (Double Decker Bus Records)
24. BROOKVILLE – Life in the Shade (Unfiltered Records)
There’s something quietly engaging about this CD, at least on first listen. I’ll be back.
25. DIXIE CHICKS – Taking the Long Way (Open Wide/Columbia)
As with Neil Young, I admire the sentiment, but the Chicks are perhaps taking themselves a little too seriously – but that’s easy for me to say, since I’ve never received a death threat. Still, I miss the sassy fun of a track like “Goodbye Earl,” which made some heavy points in a light-hearted way (and talk about your death threats!) This album has a beautiful “Lullabye” but there are only a few other songs I transferred to the iPod and even those I’m not sure will wear well.
26. RIVERBOAT GAMBLERS – To the Confusion of Our Enemies (Volcom Entertainment)
These guys tore the place up at last year’s Warped Tour, and I had the radar up to find out when and where the intensity would break through to a label deal. Coming to DC later this summer with the Rollins Band and X. The roof will be on fire!
27. PLAIN WHITE T’S – Hey There Delilah (Fearless/EastWest)
28. BLUE DOGS – Live at Workplay
29. 1986 – Nihilism is Nothing to Worry About (Palentine Records)
30. INDIGENOUS – Chasing the Sun (Vanguard)
The guy’s obviously a fine blues guitar player and, if I was a fan of that style of music, I’d probably be ga-ga over this. But I’m not, so I’m not.
31. ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO - The Boxing Mirror (Back
Porch/Narada/EMI)
No Depression magazine’s Artist of the Decade and, though I can’t say I’m all that over the moon, there’s a lot here that’s caught my ear. After personal difficulties and health scares, Escovedo is touring with an 8-piece orchestra, including Matt Nathanson’s stalwart musical companion, Matt Fish on cello. This new CD was produced by the Velvet Underground’s John Cale, Coming to the 930 Club this Saturday in an the odd but intriguing pairing with those scruffy Philly rockers, Marah.
32.The MESMERS – DVD press kit
They got me before I even opened the box, since it came with two finger-puppet sized Rock ‘em Sock ‘em Robot toys. The days of sharp press swag are over, but these little local indie boys bring back the magic. Mentioned briefly as part of a Post preview on an arts and crafts fair, the retro-hipster trio is playing soon at a DC Gay Pride event, so more points for them.
33. JEAN – On (Norte/Columbia)
34. RADIO 4 - Enemies Like This (Astralwerks)
Nice bio writing: “They’ve streamlined and stretched their sound, cut the fat, trimmed the filler, and focused on the meat that makes the music, not the spices that can bury it. “
35. P.F. SLOAN – Sailover (HighTone Records)
Anyone remember the Jimmy Webb song, “P.F. Sloan”? After many chart hits in the 60's (including "Eve of Destruction"), the folk rocker/street poet walked away from the music business 30 years ago. Willing to revisit, given the pedigree of the guests hereon (Lucinda Williams, Frank Black, Felix Cavaliere and Buddy Miller), but the first impression was bad – overwrought lyrics that made me cry “ouch” (like I said, he wrote ”Eve of Destruction.”) Out August 22nd.
36. MESSER FUR FRAU MULLER - Triangle, Dot & Devil (AeroCCCP Recordings)
Formed in St. Petersburg, Russia, the band’s name translates to “Knife for Mrs. Muller” in German. Whatever they’re singing, it’s hysterical, some of the best fun I’ve had listening to music all year.
The band samples 50’s and 60’s-era pop-culture, citing influences from music styles as varied as surf, twist, and mondo – echoing lounge masters like Esquival, Martin Denny, Les Baxter, Ennio Morricone on his trippier days. Added bonus - features the talents Theremin player, Lydia Kavina, grand-niece of Leon Theremin, who invented the instrument. Wicked, wacky and wonderful.
Out August 1st
37. ELEFANT – The Black Magic Show
Frontman Diego Garcia, described as walking “a tightrope between David Bowie and Morrissey while simultaneously mocking the pretty boy image he has acquired.” Also: "Garcia has the weary heartbreak of a Bryan Ferry fronting a well-oiled, guitar driven machine.”
Reminds me why I need more hours in the day, just to catch up on my listening!

YTD Total:339

God Only Knows

Watching "Big Love" (my daughter got me hooked) while I finally get to the lastest...

Friday, May 19, 2006
Quite the little stack of bundles today:
1.YOKO K and friends – PostSecret show demo (self-released)
If you haven’t seen the amazing PostSecret art project, go now to the site and experience this simple – and simply brilliant idea for yourself. Curator Frank Warren asked people to mail in anonymous postcards with written, drawn and/or illustrated confessions. The results, which some MTV watchers may know from the All-American Rejects video for “Dirty Little Secret,” can be hilarious and heartbreaking.

The music is chill – gentle washes of sound and a breathy female vocalist – that sounds fully realized, not demo-lite at all.
A theatre presentation- of PostSecret material on the big screen, plus dramatic readings and songs from FOUND magazine, are the subject of next week’s Live! preview for the Post, hence my getting this disc of original music for the show.

Two sides of the same story? (Funny they should arrive on the same day)
2. DARRELL SCOTT – The Invisible Man (Full Light Records)
I thought this might be another generic country dude, but I read the bio and perked up immediately. No, I didn’t know that this is the sixth album from a guy who’s an active member of Steve Earle’s Bluegrass Dukes, nor that he’s written songs for the Dixie Chicks, Keb Mo and Guy Clark, but them’s good credentials in my book. And I’m gonna pay attention when a guy is quoted saying, “There were times when I got up on my soapbox on this record. But I think we’re living in the weirdest time of my lifetime, and I’m going to say something about it.” The Earle connection reassures my that the outrage is one I can relate to.
Out June 27th.
3. PAULETTE CARLSON – It’s About Time (Pandean Records)
With her big mane of wavy blonde hair and a song called “Thank You Vets,” I’m hesitant. Could be a serving of red state meat-and-potatoes country…(and no, I’m not anti-vets; it’s just another example of the sad state of affairs that the self-righteous right has commandeered the flag and the troops as if only they care)…ah, says here she was lead vocalist for Highway 101 and critics’ quotes compare her to Kitty Wells, Stevie Nicks, Dolly Parton, Maria McKee and…Randy Travis (as in “the female…”) And she wrote the “Vets” song for her brother, a Vietnam vet. If I ultimately disregard the CD, it’s just ‘cause I’m not the biggest country fan. Out in June.

Two cardboard-encased pitches to preview:
4. MARIANNE DISSARD – demo (self-released)
Dissard and Amor are coming to the IOTA, and she asked if I might preview them, Her CD features music by Joey Burns of Calexico, and she did the all-French lyrics. He is also helping her re-record these songs with the intention of releasing an official album this fall.
5. NAIM AMOR – Sanguine (Amor Music)
Dissard’s husband and touring partner also gets Joey Burns’ help for his jazz/lounge/experimental rock. Amor also released a pair of CDs, “Soundtracks” (Vol. 1 and Vol. 2) on Howie Gelb’s OWOM Records, so he’s got street cred, too.

Two delightful reissues in the same puffy envelope:
6. DELANEY & BONNIE – Home (Stax)
The kind of re-discovery that makes my mail a joy to open. Here, the husband-and-wife deep-fried Southern soul team is backed by Booker T. and the MGs, plus the Memphis Horns and two young studio turks of the period - Leon Russell and Isaac Hayes (!) on keyboards. The original 1969 album is expanded to 16 tracks for the reissue. Tasty!
7. MERL SAUNDERS and JERRY GARCIA – Well-Matched: The Best of… (Fantasy)
Kudos, first of all, for the wonderful cover. It’s rare that non-limited (i.e., you pay more) packaging can do something that makes you stop and take notice but this one – designed as a digipack book of matches – opening with a top-to-bottom flap, the liner notes booklet tucked in to simulate the rows of matches – is truly clever. And while I can by no means be considered a Deadhead (Q: “What does a Grateful Dead audience say when the drugs wear off? A: “Who is that shitty band?”), I can get behind this duo trading licks in a more jazzy, earthbound style than the Dead’s usual cosmic noodlings – tho’ I still think Jerry’s a pretty lame vocalist. Covers of tunes like “Positively Fourth Street,” “Mystery Train” and more, including a previously unreleased take on “I Second That Emotion.”

Thursday, May 18
8. Beethoven for Kids (KOCH)
9. Eloise – (KOCH)
10. HOTEL LIGHTS – eponymous (Bar-None)
Darren Jesse was in the mighty Ben Folds Five, and now he’s got a new band and a CD which features guest appearances by pals from Sparklehorse, Archers of Loaf and Fountains of Wayne (mother of pearl!).

Wednesday, May 17
11, 12, 13. MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER – Plane in Flames (self-released)
An unfortunate coincidence that this album, by a DC-area band, arrived the same day that the news featured new footage of the airplane that crashed into the Pentagon. And the band sent three copies, in case I want to share them with friends, “particularly any folks at the Washington Post.” As a lowly freelancer, I know no folks.

Tuesday, May 16
The last major record label that sends me new releases on a regular basis (most of my stuff comes from independent publicity people), Columbia material usually arrives on Tuesday, as did this package. Four CDs, divided evenly between stuff I’m curious about, and two I may never get around to. See if you can guess:
14. TYE TRIBETT & G.A. – Victory Live! (Sony Urban Music/Columbia)
15. SUSAN CAGLE – The Subway Recordings (Lefthook/Columbia)
16. VARIOUS ARTISTS – WWE: Wreckless Intent (Columbia)
These are phrases that tell me I need not break the shrinkwrap:
"aggro-rock"
"head-crunching"
"World Wrestling Entertainment programming"
17. ANJANI - Blue Alert (Columbia)
Right there onthe cover, in type about a quarter of the size of the singer's name is "(produced by Leonard Cohen)" and, indeed, that's a selling point.

Friday, May 12
18. The NEVER – Antarctica: A Storybook Record (Trekky Records)
First listen was very impressive. Orchestral pop from Chapel Hill, NC. The full CD release comes with a 50 page illustrated storybook that tells the same strory, and either can be enjoyed (it says here) separately. But I like the music, and the concept, so I want the whole deal (this advance comes sans livre.)
Out July 11th.
19. JUDGE JULES – Proven Worldwide ( )
Put this one on in the car, starting an evening drive and the propulsive dance beat (is that redundant?) was initially quite enjoyable. But my fast-forward finger got impatiently by the third track, as the beat didn’t vary and the female vocals – the breathy, processed kind, hiding a weak voice (like Madonna, but without the gimmicks/hooks) – combined with trite lyrics (“Without love, I had….nothing”) grew tiresome. I’d rather hear this supposedly master DJ (ranked Top 10 most popular in the world, the press kit says, in DJ Magazine) on his recently-released re-mix CD, The Global Warm Up. Just as some great lead guitarists were never meant to front a band, many DJs fail to impress when they are the auteur.

Thursday, May 11
Purchased:
20. SNOW PATROL – Eyes Open (A&M/Polydor)
I don’t like this trend toward different stores having different versions of a CD. I was in Target and was already willing to buy the Snow Patrol “limited edition” for $11.98, but I don’t like to encourage this “Available Only at Target – Limited Edition CD/DVD Set.” Yes, it’s nice to get 3 extra live tracks and bonus interview footage, but what if I don’t live near a Target? Or if every Big Box store gets their own exclusives? Then the completist fan gets screwed.

Sent:
21. DR. JOHN – Mercernary (Blue Note)
22. T-BONE BURNETT – The True False Identity (DMZ/Columbia)
Is he still married to Sam Philips? I like to think of them as being an uber-hip musical couple.
23. IRON HERO – Safe as Houses (Self-Released)
24. The REMOTE – Too Low to Miss (Global Underground)
They Say: “The Remote are Depeche Mode after two weeks in Ibiza, they’re Joy Division if Ian Curtis had done a pill, Japan if David Sylvian had spent twenty four hours clubbing.”
I Say: Besides the fact that they spelled out “24 hours,” that’s a compact - and clever - description.
Out: July 11th.

Wednesday, May 10
Okay, so I won’t count these Mother’s Day purchases in my YTD total:
BARRY MANILOW – Greatest Hits of the Fifties
HARRY CONNICK, JR. – On Broadway, Vol. 1

Sent:
25. RADIO 4 – Enemies Like This (Astralwerks)
26. YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND – eponymous (Vanguard)

Via UME Promo Player:
27. CAT STEVENS – Gold (2 CD’s worth)
28. DIANA ROSS – Blue

Sunday, May 7, 2006
29. STEPHEN MERRITT – Showtunes (Nonesuch)
Advance word on this CD was sketchy, said that Merritt’s collection of short tunes (most under 2 minutes long) for Chinese theatre pieces was pretentious (Merritt pretentious? who’da thunk it?). And the initial reaction - one of the singers sounds just like Miss Piggy (and it’s a guy, too!) – is one of “what the f…?” But the guy’s clever wordplay, seeming obsession with death, and jaunty melodies can win you over if you have a taste for Brecht, Sondheim, or something almost completely different. ($9.99)
30. PRINCE – 3121 (Universal)
“Black Sweat” = cool song. ($8.99)
31. VARIOUS ARTISTS – I Believe to My Soul (Rhino)
A round-robin of righteous soul from Mavis Staples, Billy Preston, Ann Peebles, Irma Thomas and Allen Toussaint, lovingly produced with a minimum of fuss and bother, but a whole lotta heart, by the classy Joe Henry. ($7.99)
32. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Hear Music Playlist, Vol. 2 (Rhino)
The usual comment for these collections – great selections - like Sam Philips, Sondre Lerche, Zero 7- well-worth buying at a discount (and only at a discount) price. They are, after all, promotional samplers, ($3.99, from the slightly scratched bin)

From the $1.99 Clearance Bins:
33. 1 GIANT LEAP – Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost DVD single (Palm Pictures)
Glad that Grace didn’t look over my shoulder as I paid for this – the front cover has a pic of a naked man holding up a weight by a piercing through his penis.
34. GREGORIAN CHANT – Christmas Chant (Milan)
Never pass up a good deal on something that could work on next year’s Cool Yule compilation.
35. ROBIN HOLCOMB – The Big Time (Nonesuch)
Back in The Day (the childless NYC years), I did promo writing for Elektra Records which, at the time, included stuff from the Nonesuch label. I remember Holcomb fondly as an arty woman who created pure, melancholy American music. The cool black who checked me out seemed pleased I had rescued this one from the castaways and remarked how much he liked her.
And a freebie:
36. VARIOUS ARTISTS – SXSW AV Subwoofer sampler (MoRisen Records)

Gracie’s choice;
37. GATSBYS AMERICAN DREAM – Volcano (Fearless)
She grabbed it on a friend’s not-so-recent recommendation. Word of mouth and mix CDs play a big part in exposing her to new music. Right now, she’s hot on a band called Streetlight Manifesto, that I’ve never heard of, but Emma, too, says she first heard them on a mix. Emma doesn’t even have a working radio in her college dorm.
38. OST – Take the Lead (Republic/Universal)
Grace loved the movie and wanted the music as a souvenir (why God made soundtrack albums). I may borrow it - Lena Horne and Q-Tip?, a guy named Dirtbag, and a version of “Que Sera, Sera” performed by Sly & the Family Stone.

Saturday, May 6
39. SNOWGLOBE – Oxytocin (Makeshift Music)
I like these guys. Wrote about them awhile back when they came to town to play Galaxy Hut, based on another neat CD.

Friday, May 5
Sent:
40. The 303’s – Lines of Parallel Minds (Cult Hero Records)
Purchased:
41. BLACK-EYED PEAS – Elephunk (A&M)
Some great tunes here, but I feel guilty even listening to “Let’s Get Retarded.”

Thursday, May 4, 2006
42.PATTERN IS MOVEMENT – Stowaway (NFI)
From Sonic Youth on, I’m not a fan of the disjointed noise band concept. Don’t understand it, don’t like it, don’t follow it.

Wednesday, May 3, 2006
43. SSM – S/T (Alive Records)
Detroit avant rock outfit.

Tuesday, May 2nd:
Purchased:
44. PEARL JAM – S/T (J Records)
Ugly inner cover, with the guys looking like zombies. Gonna see them in DC on the 30th.
45. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Uncut magazine sampler
I don’t want to turn the page in my music magazine and see a full-page, full color shot of a torture scene from “Hostel” - involving eyes, no less. Yeeeccchhhh.

YTD Total: 302

Time flies, and so did I

To Seattle, last week, for business of the corporate media nature. Had a great time, work went well, and I got to see the Editors (and just a couple of songs by stellastarr*) at the funky little joint called Chop Suey. Mightily impressed by the Editors, whose lead singer creates an effortless enigma with a sonorous voice like the guy from Dead Can Dance set against pumping rhythms that stick. (“Munich” is now stuck in my head.)


I had only one day for sightseeing and, since the Experience Music Project cost $20 to get in, I only cruised the gift shop and chatted with the cute young cashier, who was amazed to hear that I saw Jimi Henrix open for the Monkees (I could be a museum piece myself, I fear). There was a symposium of rock journalists talking about Guilty Pleasures (Jem is truly outrageous!), but I didn’t partake.

Good radio in Seattle, too. The very first song I heard when I found the first rock station (WEXP) was from the new Loose Fur album. And there were at least two other stations I could have spent time with. How dismal DC radio is.

Haven't had a piece in the Post lately. Had my biweekly week off since the paper as publishing regional guides for the two counties I write for. I did see my name in a magazine again after a long time - the Marh/April issue of Hyperactive magazine, where I had a short interview with Emily Haines of the Canadian band Metric and a review of an indepdent CD by The Endless. The magazine doesn't post everything online but, until I get around to scanning and loading it up myself, here's a
taste.

Monday, May 1st:
Purchased:
1.SPACE MONKEYS Versus GORILLAZ – Laika Come Home (Astralwerks)
Part of the continuing obsession with all things Gorillaz, saw this on in a discography of the band and ordered via Amazon. Trippy dub reworkings of songs I don’t recognize in their new form, for the most part. Laid-back and inherently cool.
Sent:
2.BARNEY – Let’s Go to the Farm (Koch)
3.BARNEY – Let’s Go to the Beach (Koch)
The anti-Gorilla strikes again. Maybe a doped-out dub version of “Icy Creamy Ice Cream,” could make him cool? Nah.

While I was in Seattle last week, these arrived:
4. ELF POWER – Back to the Web (Ryko)
I thought they were English, but they’re actually Athens, GA indie-pop rockers, born of the Elephant 6 collective. There’s a mixed bag of influences here – Dylan, T. rex, Pink Floyd - which makes for a fun ride.
They were at the IOTA on April 27th; wish I’d gotten this sooner.
5. TRESA JORDAN – S/T (South River Road)
More girly country pop.
Out on July 4th.
6. SAM ROBERTS – Chemical City (Secret Brain/Fontana)
The press sheet is pushing these guys with comparisons to Radiohead and the Clash. Whoa, boys. That way lies backlash.
7. ANNIE SIDLEY – Diamond in the Sand (My Money Records)
The good news is, this local diva with a Big Voice and good taste in blues rock belters (her own and covers) has graced me with a Thank You in her liner notes. The bad news is, she added an “s” to my last name (which, BTW, happened at the end of my bizniz meeting last week, when the speaker at the podium thanked me and my partner for the video presentation we put together).
8. DAVID FORD – I Sincerely Apologize for All the Trouble I’ve Caused (Independiente/Columbia)
The Parental Advisory makes it sound likes it gonna be all tough and street, but Ford’s really a new rock/folk kinda guy, with KCRW airplay to make me pay attention right off the bat. It’s also cool that he used his local football club, Team Sundry, to provide choral voices.

Tuesday, April 25:
Purchased:
9. IMOGENE HEAP – Speak for Yourself (RCA Victor)
Sent:
10. CHEVREUIL – Capoeria (Sick Room Records)
11. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Sick Room Records sampler
12. FINAL FANTASY – He Poos Clouds (Tomlab)

Friday, April 21:
13. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN – We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions (Columbia)
America’s heartland hero (and once my passionate fave) makes an end-run around Red State piety by recording a slew of classic folk songs (oddly, none of them actually written by Seeger) that resound with political bite. This is, the press sheet says, the Boss’ 21st album. Wow.
Bruce is coming to town on May 28th, playing the obnoxiously-painful-to-get-to Nissan Pavilion, the same day as the better of the two-day HFStival, featuring Counting Crows, Strokes, Joan Jett and others at the also-painful-to-get-to Merriweather Post Pavilion. I heard Bruce had some harsh words for the government (“criminal ineptitude”) at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, but nothing’s gonna beat watching the Internet feed of Stephen Colbert doing his unfiltered best to debunk Bush at the AP dinner over the weekend. My heroes! And soon, new Pearl Jam and Neil Young, singing outrage. Count me in.
14. MERCY ME – Coming Up to Breathe (Ino/Columbia)
The way the letters ran together on the cover, I thought the band’s name was Mercume (thought the lower part of the Y was a graphic embellishment).

Wednesday, April 19:
15. VARIOUS ARTISTS – My Dil Goes Mmmmm…(Love Songs)(Yash Raj Films)
The funky cool Indian spices store offers mystery ingredients, cheap rentals of Bollywood DVD’s and a rack of surprisingly cheap (but not cheap looking - $6.99) Indian music imports. Not sure what the title track means, but it’s damn catchy.

Monday April 17:
16. JEHRO – S/T (Recall Records)
US debut of a French troubadour with an angelic voice and rhythms that swing between Caribbean and American grassroots.

Sunday, April 16:
CD Cellar trade-ins:
17. VARIOUS ARTISTS - Acoustic 05 (V2)
2-CD set, 38-tracks, covering a nice spectrum of stuff that would fit well in a British version of Paste – Mercury Rev, Nick Drake, Amy Mann, Zutons, Wainwrights Rufus and Martha. A nice set to have in the car as instant radio.
18. CASSANDRA WILSON – Blue Skies
19. SUGARCULT – DVD/CD (Artemis)
20. BETH ORTON – Comfort of Strangers (Astralwerks)
Limited edition includes second disc with 5 tracks.

From the $1.99 clearance:
21. The DEVLINS – Waves (Nettwerk America)
22. NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALL-STARS – Electric Blue Watermelon Screwed and Chopped EP (ATO)
23. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Piece of Cake: 20 Years of Ryko (Ryko)
Big Star, Josh Rouse, Warren Zevon and Flaming Lips – and they’re just in the first 5 tracks! This is one of those discs I may already have in the deep files, but I couldn’t risk missing out at this price.
The BRINDLEY BROTHERS – Playing with the Light (Paste)
I bought this one for a video-making friend, whom I am trying to convince to do some taping of the band for possible promotion purposes. (Won’t count it in the total.)
24. MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER – free EP (self-released)
Yeah, I’ve got the whole set now – the official full-length, and a couple of the band’s hand-made promos. Finally played some of the music and liked the easy pop charm.

Saturday, April 15:
25. ROCKNOCEROS – S/T (self-released)
Cute music in a charming package by a local kids act that packs ‘em in every week at local coffee joint, Jammin Java.
26. The MAMMALS – Departure (Humble Abode/Signature Sounds)
Unlike past Mammals albums, there is no traditional music on this album. Instead, the Woodstock, NY-based band covers the South American protest anthem “Sólo le pido a Dios,” and reinvent songs from Morphine (“Do Not Go Quietly Unto Your Grave”) and Nirvana (“Come as You Are”).
27. GLEN PHILLIPS – Mr. Lemons (Umami/Highwire)
Purchased:
28. MATT NATHANSON – At the Point (Acrobat)
29. BRIAN ENO & DAVID BYRNE – My Life in the Bush of Ghosts (Nonesuch)
30. ELVIS COSTELLO & The BRODSKY QUARTET – The Juliet Letters (Rhino)
31. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Deluxe Edition Sampler, Volume 3 (UM)
One of those in-store freebies. 11 Tracks, maybe half of which I’ll grab for the iPod – including Weezer’s “Undone” (Kitchen Tape Demo), Diana Ross (“I’m Coming Out”) and a 12” Rick James mix (“Give It to Me Baby”).

Leftovers from previous tally:
32. MELANIE MASON – Lonesome is I (self-released)
33. MELANIE MASON – Live at Blues Alley (self-released)
34. DeSOLE – A Story to Tell (Abacus Recordings)
Official release of a title I got a while back as a slim-line advance. The official release has a nice design element – the “cover” is actually a black type-on-clear sticker that’s stuck directly to the jewel case, with the booklet serving as backdrop.
35. DANNY MORRIS – Live! DVD
Former hometown hero who split to Florida and is coming back for a few gigs.
36. UMPHREY’S McGEE – Safety in Numbers (SCI Fidelity)
Second copy.
37. The BLEACHERS – Suspicion (Village Industries)

Purchased:
38. GORILLAZ – Demon Days Live DVD (Virgin)
The audio version of this work made it to my Top Ten for last year, and this live presentation is sheer exhiliration. I’m terribly jealous of the crowd in Manchester who got to see this extravaganza in person. When Damon Albarn and Co. recorded the CD, I don’t think they ever envisioned trying to reproduce all the orchestral parts, samples and guest stars live. But when they did it, they spared no effort. It’s like “Carmina Burana” for the trip-rock set – a children’s chorus, a Gospel chorus, a stage full of instrumentalists, rockers and Djs. And Albarn slumps at a piano in the back, barely seen against the colorful back screens (bigger video projection overhead) until he steps out for the encore, a lovely ballad, accompanied by a Japanese woman playing a long, low stringed thingy. This is his masterpiece, and he deserves our respect.

YTD Total: 257

Death Cab for Franz

Tuesday night, Terry went to D.A.R. Constitution Hall to see a double feature - Death Cab for Cutie (headlining) and Franz Ferdinand. I'd never seen DCFC live and I think their albums are great ("Plans" a bit less than earlier ones) tho' I'd heard their concerts are less than thrilling and the SNL performance was just okay. I listen to F2's albums less often, but I was more psyched to see them, as they rocked the HFSmas show a few years back, and I had a live version of "Do You Want To" to look forward to. I expected Franz Ferdinand to rock and DCFC to be mellow but kinda snoozy.
I was wrong. Over the course of their hour-and-change set, Franz were fun, but that martial beat got rather repetitive, and sometimes the guys sounded ragged. I loved hearing "Do You Want To" and "Take Me Out," but the band played them early in the set, which made the rest of the night kinda anti-climactic, tho' "Burn this City" (right title?) was a good ender.
And Death Cab, Terry's new favorite band (he's a latecomer to the party) showed itself to have great songs AND a good stage presence, and rocked much harder than I expected. The sad songs got me teary - nothing like hearing "who's gonna watch you die?" reverberate in a huge, hushed hall - and the love songs made me happy that the usher never checked our tickets (we had single seats in different sections) so that I could lean on my honey.
The Cribs opened, but we needed to stand on the looooooooong merchandise line (Grace wanted a T-shirt) so I can't say much about them.

New in the Post today:
Melanie Mason at Bangkok Blues
Catfish Honeymoon at Jay's Saloon

I'll have to do some housekeeping soon, to fill in gaps on stuff I know I'm forgetting here, but time's a-wasting and I need to post NOW, so here's the accounts...

Monday, April 10:
1. The 88 – Over and Over (Mootron/EMK Records)
Bright, poppy rock from the west coast quintet that’s been bubbling under the radar for a few years now. This CD is dated 2005.

Saturday, April 8:
2. JASON MRAZ – Mr. A-Z (Elektra)
A Grace request. There’s this new online service - yourmusic.com – which offers CDs at $5.99 each with free shipping. The trick is, you sign up and start a music queue, like Netflix. Each month, the service sends the first CD on the list and charges you the fee. And if you don’t have any album listed, they just charge you. So you have to remember to always have at least one (better more) titles lined up and then remember what’s listed so you don’t run off and buy it in the meantime. I just took the moment to visit the site and add two new CDs – the Black Eyed Peas last one, and Johnny Cash’s Folsom Prison concert.
3.BUTTERTHIEF – Riding the Radiowaves (self-released)

Friday, April 7:
4. YUNDI LI – Vienna Recital (Deutsche Grammaphon)
George Mason University, flush in the glow of the Patriots' Final Four victory, hosted its annual luncheon to announce the fall season for its Arts Center, and they usually hand out a few CDs of the artists who'll be appearing. There were two CDs at the table I sat at, but one of my luncheon partners grabbed the one by Canadian Brass. That was fine - I was glad to get this classical pianist's work, in solo recital. Terry, especially, loves solo piano, and I played this in the car on the way home, as I was running late and found it very soothing. Confession - on the way out of the luncheon, there was a table with empty plates and a lonely copy of this CD, so I took it. (But I won't count it.)

Monday, April 3:
Saw the adorable Matt Nathanson in concert.

He's funny - wickedly so - and his songs, though they don't always stand out in first (or second or third) listening, grow on you and become old friends. He generates good will, warmth and a music fanatic's contagious enthusiasm for cheesy power ballads and classic rock. I've seen him five times now, and it's always a pleasure.
5. LUCKY DAY – 2 song freebie
A free sampler distributed by the band to promote an upcoming (Saturday, April 15th) show at J2, opening for the Alternate Routes, whom I’ve written about and enjoyed before.
6. 7. MAT KEARNEY – Nothing Left to Lose (Columbia)
Yes, only one ‘T’ for this Mat. I had gotten an EP sampler of this guy previously, and was impressed. The full CD - in generic cardboard sleeve - seals the deal. He’ll be at Jammin’ Java on April 20th.
A second copy of the full release, an official jewelbox version, arrived yesterday, so I'll tag it on here.
8. PLACEBO – Meds (Astralwerks)
Didn’t think I would care for this one, esp. starting with the blurred, naked anorexic girl cover, but the first listen offers potential, due in large part to some catchy rhythms and the fact that the lead singer’s voice reminds me of Colin Meloy of the Decemberists, which predisposes me to think that he’s got something interesting to say. Whether that idea holds up to scrutiny is yet to be determined.

Purchases recently passed:
9. The BAND –A Musical History (Capitol)
Back to the Sam Goody going-out-of-business sale, to see if there are any other bargains. This 5-CD, 1 DVD “booked” (not boxed) set was $45, which isn’t a steal, but felt right as soon as I got in the car and popped in CD #3, which kicked in with a few tracks from the second, eponymous album, which has been my favorite - ever since the nice salesman at Sears threw the vinyl copy in with my purchase of my first detachable speaker plastic stereo. (I was about 12?)
10. The ROLLING STONES – Singles 1965-1967 (Abkco)
More fetish objects for the collector. 11 CDs in cardboard covers that simulate the 45 r.p.m. singles the Stones released in the titular (go ahead; you can giggle at that word) era. It was $30 on sale, not a great deal, but playing – and playing with - these discs is fidgety fun.
11. PASTE – April/May issue with free CD and DVD
12. LOOSE FUR – Born Again in the USA (Drag City)
Terry's purchase (he's a follower), despite perhaps the single most unattractive CD cover so far this year. Not gross, not disturbing, actually, just unappealing. T- loves these guys, says "they're quirky but cool."

Sent in recent times:
13. DEAD HEART BLOOM – S/T (Kei Records)
Hmmm..going by titles alone, we’ve got “There Will Come Soft Rains” (that’s poetic), “Folsom Prison Blues” (interesting choice of cover) and “Sodom” (uh-oh).
And now, for the importance of press releases – It wasn’t until I referred to the notes that I learned that this album was written, recorded and performed by Boris Skalsky, the former singer and songwriter for the wonderful, albeit obscure, DC band Phaser. And thus, it went to the top of the pile of things to listen to promptly. First impression was good, but then, I’m a sucker for people who sing quietly and use cellos.
14. CONNER – Hello Graphic Missile (Sonic Boom)
They Say: recommended if you dig the Stones’ “Miss You,” the Killers, Hot Hot Heat.
I Say: That’s quite the boast. Out June 20.
15. TEA LEAF GREEN – Taught to be Proud (Greenhouse Records)
16. UMPHREY’S McGEE – Safety in Numbers (SCI Fidelity)
Two from Madison House Publicity, home to many of the country’s finest jam bands. While I’m not always a fan of the style (esp. when we enter get the 20 minute noodle jam), I’ve been pleasantly surprised more than once by what the folks there have sent me.
17. JANET ROBIN – After the Flood (Little Sister Records)
Full title (shades of Fiona Apple!) – After the flood I was anti-anxiety and on a mad mission to leave myself a message for some hope and faith from a beautiful freak. And that last sentence includes all the titles for the individual songs, bar the final one, an instrumental. She’s opening for James Hunter later this month, at the IOTA, so this came as a pitch.
18. VARIOUS ARTISTS – L.A.’s Finest (Groove House)
A collection of 8 acts, doing 2 songs each, including a pair by the aforementioned Janet Robin, who tucked this into her press kit. I don’t recognize anyone here, but maybe there’s some discoveries to be made.
19. EDWIN McCAIN – Lost in America (Vanguard)
Damn if I can remember the name of his hit (I Googled him, but I didn’t recognize the titles) but I can remember that I didn’t much like it, or got sick of it mighty fast.
20. The DUKE SPIRIT – Cuts Across the Land (Startime International)
Reminds me of Romeo Void – moody rock darkness and sultry female vocals. RV was and is a favorite in this house, so a new band that echoes the old classic is a welcome one.
21. BLUE OCTOBER – Foiled (Universal)
Don’t know much about these dudes, but they are playing at the new version of the annual WHFS-tival (this year, at Merriweather Post) so I’ll glad I can check ‘em out,
22. BRUCE ROBISON – Eleven Stories (Sustain/Universal)

Form the Post files:
23. LISA MOSCATIELLO – Trouble from the Start (Machine Heart Records)
24. MAD AGNES – Magic Hour (self-released)
These two acts were playing together, and I previewed them for the Post. While I know and like Moscatiello, a stalwart of the local scene, I found the CT-based trio Mad Agnes a bit too sweetly earnest in that cloying way that some folkies have.
25.MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER – 3-track sampler
26. 27. MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER – advance of upcoming full-length
Before I wrote about this band for the Post , I received the sampler, but the charmng hand-drawn label on the CD began peeling off when I popped it in my drawer-style CD player, and I had to abandon the effort. Upon hearing this, the band contact sent me two copies of the upcoming full-length (thus, I count both) and this time the writing is directly on the disc, including an inscription just for me.
I was actually most excited to see the opening act, Cinematic Underground, whose leader, Nathan Johnson, I'd met in NYC last year during CMJ. Nathan's a sweet, personable, kinda quiet guy to talk to, but he becomes a rock star on stage, leading a half-dozen players who use garbage cans, bicycle wheels and water-filled glasses in addition to the usual guitars, etc. It was a great show.


YTD Total: 219

Cute Little British Jazzman

Saw Jamie Cullum last night at the 930 Club. What a cutie! Very upbeat, energetic show, so don’t take the album’s MOR sound at face value. My favorite shots from the show (although I should have tried harder to get a better angle – lots of rejected shots of the back of his head!) are available on my mac.com site.
Brandi Carlisle opened and, while I still don’t get exactly what all the fuss is about (in recent days, both a local club owner and a singer/songwriter I was interviewing for a story gushed about her), she also is better live than the CD would lead you to believe. Good night of music all around, and there's beaucoup d'new additions to the collection…

Before we recap, the latest Post previews are:
1.Seven Nations and Black 47 at the State Theatre
Casiotone for the 2. Painfully Alone, the Donkeys (one show) and The Echoes and Brainfang (the next night) at the Galaxy Hut
BTW, these are not being touted as among my most creative works, since they were written while I was still recovering from the “London Lurgy” (a Brit friend says that what an undiagnosed sickness is called). Next week will be better – interviews with area singer/songwriter Lisa Moscatiello and film composer/leader of the Cinematic Underground Nathan Johnson.

Saturday, March 25
1.LIVINGSTON TAYLOR – There You Go Again (Whistling Dog)
It has to be frustrating to be a reasonably talent singer/songwriter whose older brother just happens to be a God of the Genre. Livingston is coming to the Wolf Trap Barns in a few week, so this came as a pitch.

Friday, March 24
A visit to the mall scored a few sweet surprises in that some of the regional Sam Goody stores are going out of business (I have stories from years ago, when I was manager of the Woodhaven Blvd. Goody’s 7” vinyl singles department) and there were some bargains to be had among the wreckage.
2. INTERPOL – Antics (Matador)
The remix and video added version, for just $9. Wonder how much credit I can get for the original, single disc version I already own?
3. VARIOUS ARTISTS – One Kiss Could Lead to Another: Girl Group Sounds Lost & Found (Rhino)
At $35 for 4 discs, not a super-bargain, but you can’t beat the packaging – like a girl’s hat box – and this label always does such a great job with compilations. I think it would be a creative music fan’s dream job to work on these packages – gathering up cool, obscure tracks and then coming up with the concepts to box ‘em. Anyway, this one makes you perk up as soon as you put one of the discs on – the driving beat, giddy harmonies, the delicious ‘get away from my boyfriend’ or ‘I love the jerk’ lyrics that let us think we may have progressed somewhat in the gender wars. Though most of the tracks are B-sides and regional favorites, there are some true classics here – “Oh, No, Not My Baby” by Maxime Brown is an all-time favorite – and I bet you’d be surprised at how many bring back memories or make you say ‘I didn’t know that was a girl group song; I though so-and-so made it a hit.”
4. BARBRA STREISAND – The Television Specials (Rhino)
My steal of the night – the stylish boxed set of all 5 CBS specials for $30. Contemporary singers like Mariah Carey, Christine Aguilera and Barbra Streisand (Mach 2) should be made to watch these and learn that beating the notes into submission is not as good as singing the song with simplicity and sincerity.

Saturday, March 18:
5. ARCTIC MONKEYS – Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not (Domino)
Believe the hype. Damn fun CD, and the band rocked it on last week’s SNL broadcast. Grace was excited to hear that we were stopping at Circuit City to take advantage of the $7.99 sale on her new boys.

At the CD Trade-In store:
6. DAMON ALBURN and EINAR ORN BENEDIKTSSON -101 Reykjavik soundtrack (EMI)
Bought for hubby, who has developed quite the retroactive fondness for Blur, thanks to Gorillaz and “Think Tank.” Includes a rinky-tink instrumental version of “Lola” which made Terry and me chortle at exactly the same moment. Otherwise, somewhat appealing if generic odd-world music.
7. BJORK – Family Tree (Elektra Entertainment)
Greatest hits, as chosen by Bjork, plus five 3” CDs in little gatefold sleeves, plus a booklet of typically strange artwork and words. A fetish object for completists like me (since I must have almost all the actual music on her original releases) but finally on sale at a price I can justify ($30) – especially since I had more than enough store credit.

$2.00 CD single finds:
8. U2 – Stuck in a Moment You Can’t get Out of CD single (Universal International)
Two tracks here seem to be rare – a song called “Big Girls are Best” (I like the sentiment!) and a nearly eight-minute mix of “Beautiful Day.”
9. HOPE OF THE STATES – Winter Riot Dust Rackets (Epic)
I saw and loved these guys two years ago at the CMJ fest, but they never seemed to cross the pond,
This single offers four tracks – one a demo, one previously unreleased, and a video for “Black Dollar Bills.”
10. HOPE OF THE STATES – The Red The White The Black The Blue (Epic)
Three audio tracks and a video for the title song, in a spiffy die-cut digi-pack.
11. The AMERICAN ANALOG SET – Updates (Tiger Style)
Six songs, nearly 30 minutes of remixes for this band that I don’t know well, but like for their generally chill experimental vibe. Good deal.

The 50-cent CD single finds:
12. WILL YOUNG – Light My Fire CD single
It wasn’t until after I saw “Mrs. Henderson Presents” and was thoroughly charmed by Young’s portrayal of the gleefully gay male ingénue in the stage-show-within-the-film that I realized this was the British Pop Idol winner. That may ruin his credibility in England, but I like the guy, even with his toothsome CD cover and ersatz Latin jazz (copied from Jose Feliciano?) take on The Doors hit, plus what can assume are very Pop Idol renditions of “Beyond the Sea” and “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Nothing daring, just smooth pop fun.
13. KATHRYN WILLIAMS – No One Takes You Home CD (CAW Records/Warner Music)
2002 3-track single by the sweet-voiced singer/songwriter I discovered in London.
14. PEARL JAM – Alive CD single (Epic)
Sticker notes: Not To Be Confused With More Expensive (Identical) Import Version.
I like that Pearl Jam warns its fans not to overpay. And one day, I will put all these collected PJ singles in a lot and sell them on eBay. Is that against the philosophy?
BTW, purchased tix for the band’s upcoming show at Verizon Center in DC. I bet it hurst them almost as much as it hurts me to buy tickets through Ticketbastard.

Friday, March 17:
15. ROSANNE CASH – Black Cadillac (Capitol)
When will the music industry realize the magic of the $10 price point? Ever since hearing about this CD, in which Cash addresses the loss of her father (I can relate), mother and stepmother (Ouch! What a year!), I have been curious about it and, when Borders offered me a coupon to get it for $9.99, I was there. The somber sentiments and restrained playing are beautiful, but my favorite song so far is the slightly pissed-off “Burn Down this Town.” I once attended a delightful press dinner with Rosanne – about 10 of us, back when she first released another bittersweet beauty of an album, “Interiors,” and remember as a classy, gracious lady.

Other recent mailings:


16. WASHINGTON SOCIAL CLUB – Catching Looks (Badman)
Not sure why I was sent this CD, which came in a hand-addressed puffy envelope with no note, no press notes, no clues. I have already written about them, seen them live and bought a copy of the CD from one of the band members after the show. The last time I contacted them, it was to ask for a photo pass to a recent gig, a request never responded to. Great young band, a bit disorganized?
17. SONYA KITCHELL – Words Came Back to Me (Velour)
The official version of a CD I received in advance form last year. She, too is coming to town, and this is a pitch. Nice bluesy vocal style, perhaps the mid point between Norah Jones and Joss Stone. The official release is a nice digi-pack with a little booklet; the advance is a jewel case with front and back cover, but no added graphics. Ah, the decisions I have to make!
18.TEDDY GEIGER – Underage Thinking (Columbia)
This one got some squeals from Grace, who has been smitten by the pretty dark-haired boy’s video. I liked the stuff I heard him sing when he played the fictional musician Warren or Wayne or Whatever? on the short-lived “Love Monkey” TV series, which I watched more out of obligation than actual enjoyment (jealousy).

Bountiful booty – a jazz package from the nice publicist at Concord, celebrating the release of a new series - the RVG Remasters - assembled from the archives of Rudy Van Gelder.
I confess that I don’t know a lot about jazz, but I love learning and, from what I’ve heard so far, these are sessions from a fertile period for a style I like very much!
19. MILES DAVIS – Relaxin’ With the Miles Davis Quintet (Prestige)
20. RED GARLAND – Red Garland’s Piano (Prestige)
21. JOHN COLTRANE – Lush Life (Prestige)
22. The MODERN JAZZ QUARTET - Django (Prestige)
23. SONNY ROLLINS – Saxophone Colossus (Prestige)
24. KENNY BURRELL & JOHN COLTRANE – S/T (Prestige/New Jazz)
25. ERIC DOLPHY – Out There (Prestige/New Jazz)
26. COLEMAN HAWKINS – The Hawk Relaxes (Prestige/Moodsville)
27. GENE AMMONS – Boss Tenor (Prestige)
28. KENNY DORHAM – Quiet Kenny (Prestige/New Jazz)

29. MINMAE – le Grand Essor de la Maison du Monstre (Greyday Records)
Titles to love: "Everyone Knows Jesus Wore a Chain," or "I Was at Johnny’s and He Played Phil Ochs."
30. NICK COLIONNE – Keepin’ It Real (Narada Jazz)
Every piece of press included in the package uses the term “smooth jazz” and it’s the phrase as it describes the worst of the already suspect style – lame, “liquid” guitar that screams late nights in a sleepy, sad airport lounge or misguided romantic ballads for people with no tolerance for a challenge. Colionne’s coming to town, but thankfully, the package arrived late and the week’s already spoken for, so I don’t have to consider him. Sometimes I think I need to write about music I don’t personally care for, to mix things up, but it’s really hard when I actively dislike the act I’m telling people to see.
31. WILLY MASON –Where the Humans Eat (Astralwerks)
Buzz for this young wunderkind, tho’ friends whose taste I much admire didn’t care for him recently when he opened for Aimee Mann (but then, I’ve never been a huge Mann fan, so maybe I’ll respond differently).
32. VARIOUS ARTISTS - SUK on This: British Music at SXSW 2006
K T Tunstall is huge in England – front page stories and quite the acclaim. For a while, I was confusing her with Brandi Carlisle in the Next Big Female Thing stakes, until I realized I didn’t think much of Carlisle’s lyrics. Also on this collection – Editor (also saw a lot about them when I was in London)s, Brakes, The Feeling, Jim Noir (lots of ads for him in the UK, too, and I like the scruffy track here) and The Kooks (love the name).
33. JONAH MATRANGA – There’s a Lot in Here (Jade Tree)
A CD/DVD set, from “the Desire Line Series.” Very low-fi; sounds like it was taken from a fan’s audience recording. That technique worked well for the Replacements’ classic, “The Shit Hits the Fans” semi-legal bootleg, but here I lose the thread. Maybe the DVD will clue me in,
34. The SHARP THINGS – Foxes & Hounds (Bar/None)
Love the titles “The Most Dangerous Man in the Living Room,” or “I’ll Always Be Your Loser, Honey,” but a first listen felt a little lounge limp to me.
35. STEPHEN YERKEY – Meta Neo Nature Boy (The Echo Label)
Intriguing backwoods, front porch sound.

YYD Total 192
course correction: I found a mistaken double entry, so I subtracted one from last entry's total. (Trying to keep it honest here.)

London Calling - and Coughing

March 1st seems like forever ago now, but it was my birthday (thanks) and Terry swept me away that weekend for a faboo long weekend in London. Saw The Go! Team at a wonderful club called Koko, ate well (albeit expensively), enjoyed boat trips on the Thames, modern art and flea market shopping at Spitalfields.
But then….(TA-DUM!) on the flight home, we both picked up some kind of bug and have been crawling around the house since. Not fair. We want to bask in the post-vacation glow.
But we have memories – and plenty of new music – to remind us.
As ever, much catching up to do.

Saturday, March 11:
After a nice chat on the phone a few days ago with a PR dude from the Stunt Company, his latest wares arrived:
1.TAYLOR HAWKINS and the COATTAIL RIDERS – S/T (Thrive Records)
One of my fondest photo pit memories was of a WHFS-estival some years back, watching from the up-close press-only access area as the beautiful, shirtless Taylor Hawkins smashed his kit during a Foo Fighters’ performance of “My Hero,” a personal favorite. Later, in the press area, while interviewing the band, Taylor recognized me and said something along the lines of ‘you looked like you were having fun.’ Yes, indeed. I think it says something (good) about the guy that he named his band the Coattail Riders.
2. NIGHTMARE OF YOU – S/T (The Bevonshire Label)
Hmmm…something ponderous this way comes. The song titles are listed in Roman Numerals, and include “I Want to Be Buried in Your Backyard,” “The Studded Cinctures” and “In the Bathroom is Where I Want You.” Still, the sticker touts a “Brilliant” from NME and “A Band You Need to Know” from Alternative Press, so maybe there’s some hope.
3. LIMBECK – Let Me Come Home (Doghouse America/WEA)
They Say: “building on a foundation of Big Star and Tom Petty-inflected power pop…”

Also on Saturday:
4. The EDITORS – The Back Room (Fader)
An album I probably would have bought in England, based on placement in Time Out London and in the retail racks at Virgin, but I was confident that my PR contact on this side of the pond would come through. And he did! (Thanks, Johnny)
5. JOEY DeFRANCESCO – Organic Vibes (Concord Music Group)
It was, admittedly, a long, long time ago, but I recall this guy doing some really cheesy roller-rink organ kinda stuff. Maybe I don’t remember it well, maybe he’s grown, maybe my tastes have changed, or I’ll have a new appreciation of cheese (it worked out that way with disco).

Friday, March 10:
6. DAVID GILMOUR – On an Island (Columbia)
Terry recoiled in fear upon seeing the latest from Pink Floyd’s legendary guitarist but I’ll admit that, having been blown away by the band’s comeback set at Live 8, I’m looking forward to a loll with that languid, trippy sound.
7. GYPSY BORDELLO – Gypsy Punks (Side OneDummy)
Or is the title Underdog World Strike? Hard to tell. Lately, I’ve been getting scads of emails, inviting me to faboo events at SXSW which I won’t be attending since I won’t be in Austin this year. But it’s a great excuse to reply and say, ‘can’t be there; can you send a disc?’ Maybe next year I can be among the Texas throng.
Anyway, at first listen, I was tempted to call this a novelty album, there’s something so willfully exotic about it, but then I found it to be great driving on a sunny day music, full of smartass humor and Clashy edge, Makes me wanna drink vodka and smash plates, and wear purple!
8. RHONDA TOWNS – I Wanna Be Loved by You (Dawn Records)
What are the chances that I am gonna like another generic country western singer? Not much, really, and when she goes into a full-on song version of The Lord’s Prayer, I know I’m in way over my head. Funny note there: she sings “and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Since when is God doing credit counseling?
9. VENICE IS SINKING – Sorry About the Flowers
Compared on the PR sticker, to Low and Galaxie 500, but I hear the Dambuilders, a local act that had a minor hit with the minor key, bittersweet “Drive-by Kiss.”
10. ABOUT – Bongo (Cock Rock Disco)
Freaky cover – black and white DIY punky collage with shots of color and Ralph Steadman-style splatter. Slightly off-putting, but it’s from the peeps at Team Clermont, who don’t get all hardcore on me. They compare the band to Devo and Fischerspooner. We’ll see.

Thursday, March 8
11. RICHARD ASHCROFT – Keys to the World (Parlophone)
The disc was made in Holland, so I suspect this is not the American label – and I doubt I can actually download the ringtones offered in the CD booklet promotion. Ashcroft is such a big deal in England, but his swagger doesn’t count for much here. Still, he’s got an interesting voice and grand ambitions, so I’m curious to hear what he’s on about this time.

Wednesday, March 7
Before the dread Airplane Flu knocked me out, I made it to the book store for the latest:
12. MOJO magazine – The Modern Genius of Ray Davies
Indeed, there’s nary a day goes by that Terry and I don’t hear something on the stereo that makes us nod and think, “Kinks influence.” After the Beatles and Stones, the Kinks really were the most important British band and arguable more intrinsically British than anyone else.
I don’t know who Peter Bruntnell is, but his version of “Waterloo Sunset” does justice to the tender masterpiece and that’s a high bar.

Mr. Customs Man, I declare the following U.K purchases:
13. UNCUT Playlist April 2006
I saved about $1.50 buying the magazine in England rather than in the States, but I was restless at the first newsstand, and anxious to start the acquisition process. And with a line-up like Nick Cave, Morrissey, Secret Machines and Moody Blues, it felt like a British thing to do (even tho’ there are US artists here as well. Oh, look, there’s a track from My Latest Novel, a band I read about in the British press and wanted to check out.
14. VA – NME Awards 2006 The Winners
Kaiser Chiefs, Babyshambles, the Strokes and Franz Ferdinand…Now, here I did save a bit of doss, as I think the Brits say. This magazine was only about $3 to buy in London and goes for about $7 here in the states. And with a 12 track CD offering samples of Babyshambles (nice rhyme there), Mystery Jets, and the Editors.Yeah, baby!
15. Flux magazine with free CD, "Speaking in Tongues" (Trama label)
Even at the venerable Tate Britain gallery, I’m looking for music (and not the Throbbing Gristle connection, provided by an “art” piece in which a former member of that band painstakingly documents her time as a worker in the sex industry). This art magazine comes with a sampler from a Brazilian-oriented record label.

But the big event, music acquisition-wise, was the obligatory trip to a British music store, in this case, Virgin, Tottenham Court Road, around the corner from the scary Freddie Mercury statue which looms over the theatre playing the Queen musical.

4 for 20 pounds:
16. POGUES – The Ultimate Collection (Warner UK)
2 discs, one a greatest hits and the other a live show from the Brixton Academy. I didn’t get tickets (and couldn’t have dragged my butt out of med) for last week’s 930 Club show, so maybe I’ll play this real loud and down a few pints.
17. ELBOW – Leaders of the Free World (V2)
Love this band and now that Coldplay has admitted that it may be time for them to step aside, maybe the rest of the world can discover this emotive, classy band.
18. VARIOUS ARTISTS – The Buddha Café (Dynamic)
Three CDs of “sublime chilled beats.” For 5 pounds!
19. The KINKS – Kinks are the Village Green Preservation Society
I’d heard there was a version of this with an added disc – DVD I think, or concert material, but this is a single disc with the album in both mono and stereo. As I hope we have firmly established here, I love the Kinks, god save ‘em. Funny note: the spine leaves out the word “green” from the correct title.

Terry took advantage of the 4 for 20 pounds offer as well to stock up on hipster muzak for the kitchen. All of these, except for the double CD classical set, are 3–CD collections, which makes for quite a lot of music for his money. And, in the first samplings across the sets, we find them just right for the purpose – not as quiet as ambient nor as saccharine as muzak, just the right balance - non-intrusive yet pulsatingly pleasing. As Terry remarked, ‘I feel like this is what was playing in just about every cool bar and restaurant we visited in England.’
20. Brazilica Lounge (Dynamic)
21. Bollywood Beats (Dynamic)
22. Arabic Chillout (Dynamic)
23. Classical Chill (Retrospective/Union Square)

3 for 12 pounds. Another hard-to-resist promotion.
24. The MAMAS and the PAPAS – The Best of
I’ve been searching for a M&P collection that includes the song “Straight Shooter,” from the debut album, and here it is.
25. JAMES – The Collection
Includes a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “So Long Marianne,” but I can’t say I’m crazy about what they’ve done with it.
26. GREEN DAY – Dookie (Warner UK)
Emma had a copy, I had a copy (albeit a thrift store home-made duplicate) but Grace wanted one to call her very own.

27. SNOW PATROL – Songs for Polarbears (Jeepster)
An earlier album, somewhat shaggier than the breakthrough.
28. KATHRYN WILLIAMS – Dog Leap Stairs (CAW Records)
Purchased, without having heard a note, on the basis of a sterling review from Mojo, or Uncut. Played it the other night while falling asleep and found that it’s as good as the review said. She has a remarkable voice – crisp and beautiful.
29. The WHITE STRIPES – Walking with a Ghost (V2)
In hindsight, this wasn’t a very good deal – a 5-track EP, 4 of them live, for about $9.50 American. But I was swept away by the “staff recommends” card that said how it was sure to be out of print and a collector’s item soon. I’m such a sucker for that shit.

And of course, we had to check out the singles section:
30. ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS – Move Along CD single
Another treat for Grace, includes non-CD songs and a video.
31. MYSTERY JETS – CD single (679 Recordings)
In perusing the local music press, an ad and a review of the Mystery Jets album put them at the top of my list of bands to find out about. And here in the singles section, the play given to the band seemed to say, Big Thing Indeed. I was also smitten by the way the CD single is pressed, on a clear disc, so that the image of the boy running appears to be a die-cut shape even though it’s fully rounded. And it’s a catchy tune when you play it, too.

Genuine 7”vinyl singles, too! Terry mocked me for buying these, but I assured him I do still use my turntable. Still, to be honest, it’s not about playing them so much as there’s the fetishistic quality of the square picture sleeve…
32. MYSTERY JETS – 7” vinyl single (679 Recordings)
There were actually two different vinyl singles for sale (the British music industry is shameless about making the hard-core punters buy multiples in order to boost sales) and I had to talk myself out of grabbing both.
33. CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY YEAH – 7” vinyl single (self-released)
You gotta support these guys, especially as they’ve done it all without major label support.
34. WE ARE SCIENTISTS – It’s a Hit
Groovy orange-red vinyl! Confused by the sticker, tho – “Ltd edition coloured vinyl that will reveal its true self when joined with its companion “It’s a Hit’ 7.” I looked all over the rack, but this was the only version of the song I could find. What would/could another vinyl single do with this one?

And one more, at the airport:
35. MYSTERY JETS – Making Dens (679 Recordings)
Oh yes, those Jets again. I asked the young punky girl at the Virgin store if there was a full-length Jets CD out, but she said she didn’t think so (she also had no idea who Damon Alburn of Blur was, either, so I should have questioned her authority). Lo and behold, there it was at the little Virgin store in the duty free, and I sprang for the deluxe version with the DVD. Thankfully, having invested a lot in this band I hadn’t heard a lick of, I’m finding the sound quite enjoyable – meaty, beefy, big and bouncy, as the Who once described it, with baroque arrangements and trippy effects.

Waiting upon my return:
Purchased
36. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Stubbs the Zombie soundtrack (Shout! Factory)
Gentle versions of oldies by modern indie types like Death Cab and the Raveonettes.
37. GRACE of MY HEART (DVD)
Elvis Costello, among others, wrote songs for this Brill Building-themed film, so I;m counting it.
38. CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY YEAH – S/T (self-released)

By Request:
39. LESLEY GORE – Ever Since (Engine Company)
40. The BOY LEAST LIKELY TO – The Best Party Ever (Too Young to Die)
I was invited to see these guys open for James Blount (count me among those who can’t stand the guy) and would have enjoyed it, I think. The CD is twee, to be sure, but you wouldn’t want it to be otherwise, given the adorable cartoon characters running throughout the CD booklet.

Unsolicited:
41, 42. NORTHEY VALENZUELA – (The Lab)
Two copies of the same CD, in separate puffy bags.
Jesse Valenzuela of the Gin Blossoms and Craig Northey of the Odds.
43. BLACK 47 – Bittersweet Sixteen (Gadlfy)
Next week’s Post preview.
44. The DANGER O’s – Little Machines (Creep/Blackout)
45. CANDY BARS – On Cutting Ti-Gers in Half and Understanding Narravation (New Grenada)
46. The NEW ORLEANS SOCIAL CLUB – Sing Me Back Home (Burgundy/SONYBMG)
Soon to tour with Broken Social Scene, Washington Social Club, Paranoid Social Club…
47. DAMIAN “JR. GONG” MARLEY – Beautiful VHS (Ghetto Youths/Tuff Gong/Universal)
Catchy video version of the dreadlocked one’s single, with a scary looking Bobby Brown helping out.

And finally, catching up with what came in just prior to the trip:
48. HAZARD COUNTY GIRLS – Divine Armor (Rev Up Records)
Press kit came with plastic rose petals. Annoying, actually, for some reason.
49.VARIOUS ARTISTS – Take Action, Vol. 5 (Sub City)
Given to me by the publicist at the press conference for the tour, begun March 1st in DC.
You can see pictures of the event, where Matchbook Romance did a short acoustic set, here.

50. SONDRE LERCHE and the FACES DOWN QUARTET – Duper Sessions (Astralwerks)
I love that little Lerche dude, and I enjoy his quiet, tasteful take of classics like Cole Porter, but his version of Costello’s “Human Hands” doesn’t make the jump for me. Costello is many things, but straightly sweet? Not really.

YTD Total: 158

Now Powered by Widgets!

I'm trying to expand my abilities here to post pictures, and have dived (diven? dove?) into the world of mac.com, with its idiot-proof (we'll see) templates for quickly posting shots from my picture gallery. So, if you want to see shots of Steve Wynn and the Miracle 3 at Jammin Java last weekend, try this.

As for the latest music...

Monday, February 27:
1. WRECKLESS ERIC – Bungalow Hi (Southern Domestic)
Eric is going to be included in this week's Post preview, on the bill with Amy Rigby and Marti Jones, who are bringing their "Cynical Girls" tour to the Birchmere on Sunday, March 5th. I wrote to the eddress on Eric's web site, expecting some lackey to write back, but the Wreckless One himself answered my note and offered to send his latest CD, and a copy of his memoir/manual, "A Dysfunctional Success." I replied that I would love if he signed the book, so I could add it to my Author's Shelf, with other signed books by the likes of Hunter S. Thompson, Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. and others. Today, his package arrived, and the book was inscribed to me, "hope this goes on the shelf alright, good luck!"
I love my work.

Saturday, February 25:
2. The WOOD BROTHERS - Ways Not to Lose (Blue Note)
Official version, and duplicate of a copy (generic advance) that I got last year, when the PR contact was pitching a Jammin Java show that took place earlier this month.

Friday, February 24:
3. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & The E STREET BAND - Hammersmith Odeon, London '75 (Columbia)
Whoa! I didn't even know this was in the planning stage. I haven't had the chance to sit down and enjoy the DVD of this legendary show which came in the deluxe Born to Run reissue, but it was easy-peasy (as Jamie Oliver would say) to pop the audio version in and be transported back in time to relive my fantasy affair with the scruffy, wool-hatted Bruce that broke (and mended) my heart many times over during that era. I wish I was taking a long car trip soon, so I could put this double-disc set on and Drive All Night.
4.The PLAYWRIGHTS - English Self Storage (Sink & Stove Records)
Give it up for YARRR! PR.
Out April 18th.

And lost days previous:
5. GARRISON STARR - The Sound of You and Me (Vanguard)
Second copy (generic advance sent last year).
Out March 13th.
6. ROB REYNOLDS – Sightseeing (Invisible Hands Music)
Here’s the full, official release of a disc I had picked up as a cardboard freebie at the CD Cellar. That one was clearly marked as a freebie that you were encouraged to take, copy and give away, and also to track on its website. Kinda like the Where’s George? (dollar bill tracking system) of music. Now the music is in a full jewel case, and you’re supposed to pay for it, and there’s nothing in the notes about passing it around for free.
7. LAUREN K NEWMAN - Postulate 1 (Greyday)
More YARRR!
They Say: "a Bonham-reincarnated musician who writes and records all of her own parts and rocks hard."
I say: it's always cool when women rock.
Out April 11th.
8. CINEMECHANICA – The Martial Arts (Hello Sir Records)
They (Team Clermont) Say: “A hailstorm of insane drumming and slashing guitar riffs,” compared to Drive Like Jehu and Q and Not U.
On tour constantly, it says in the liner notes.
Out May 23rd.

By Request:
9. SPARKS – Hello Young Lovers (In the Red)
As mentioned previously, I heard “Metaphor’ on a compilation and was intrigued, that song being silly/catchy and having fond memories of hearing these guys back in the college dorms (and that was 25 years ago!)
10. NICOLAI DUNGER – Here’s My Song, You Can Have It….I Don’t Want it Anymore/Yours 4-ever (Zoe Records)
The title isn’t quite up there in the Fiona Apple “When the Pawn…” realm, but it’s a tad precious, no? Still, this one gave me an afternoon’s enjoyment since the guy has a varied style and a genial manner. Could fill the gap until the next Sondre Lerche CD comes out.
Out March 14th.

Purchased:
11. VARIOUS ARTISTS – Sweetheart
One of those Starbucks collections I only buy when they’re on sale and, at $7.99, this is one I’d even consider a good deal at regular price. Rufus Wainwright’s take on “My Funny Valentine,” the Old 97’s giving a sweet ride of the Kinks’ “She’s Got Everything,”
12. PATSY CLINE - I Can't Forget (BCI/Navarre Corporation)
2 discs - one an audio collection with hits like "Walkin' After Midnight" and "Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray" and plenty more I don't know, 'cause I'm still learning. And maybe I have some/most/all of these songs on the older greatest hits disc buried in the back room, but this came with a DVD, too. For 84 cents at Target.
13. K.D. LANG and the RECLINES – Absolute Torch and Twang (Sire)
How appropriate that I should find Patsy and k.d. in the same week. I used to have a thing (non-sexual, at least for the most part) for k.d. (okay, I’ll drop to lowercase) but I wasn’t thrilled by the last few CDs. This is one of great early CDs, and it was just $1.50 at ye olde thrift shoppe.
14. U2 – Communication (Island)
Count this one as a purchase, since it was part of the renewal gift for the U2 fan club. The club is a good deal for one key reason – you get priority treatment when the band tours and can buy tix in a presale that doesn’t quite guarantee, but is better than any scalper service. This two-disc set includes eight live tracks and a CD-rom with screensavers, wall paper and a live clip of “Vertigo.”

earlier in Februrary:
15. MARIAH CAREY - The Emancipation of Mimi (Island)
Purchased at Target ($10 with a bonus disc for one extra song) as a Valentine's gift for Grace. Mariah really used to set my teeth on edge (when I was doing promo stuff for Columbia Records, and they were about to release her first greatest collection, I suggested "Fuck You, Tommy" as the title). And she still spends too much time showing off her bod (it's getting more zophtic, eh?) and hammering some of the poor notes into submission. Still, I'll admit to adding "All I Want for Christmas is You" to the 2005 Cool Yule, and there are some catchy tunes on this CD. And I bought Madonna's latest, too, so I must be getting soft.

YTD Total: 108

Me and Mr. Ray

"Mort Shuman took me under his wing. He said 'You've got to do something for me. You've got to leave this house, leave your wife, take drugs, change your whole life. You've got to get away from this- it's ruining you. I want you to be a writer."
Ray Davies (according to a press release about his upcoming appearance on Little Steven's Underground Garage this weekend)

I’m happily married and have no intention of running off to take drugs, so there goes that career…

Thursday, Feb. 16
Two new previews in the Washington Post:
Rachel Sage, Steve Wynn (two separate shows) @ Jammin Java
And
Spinout Records package tour at the IOTA
Two new CDs in the mail:
1. TOM RUSSELL – Love and Fear
CD out March 21st.
Sent in conjunction with his upcoming show at Jammin Java.
2. DEREK TRUCKS BAND – Songlines
Official release of a CD that came in weeks ago as a generic advance.

Wednesday. Feb. 15
3. XRAYOK – Like Life (self-released)
They Say: “a lush blend of dark New Wave, Rock and Electro…in the league of Mogwai, Elbow, Slowdive.
I Say: them’s mighty big footprints to fill, but I liked these 6 tracks on the first late-night listen.
Out April 4
4. GUS BLACK – Autumn Days (Cheap Lullaby)
CD covers that are printed to look like vinyl album covers, complete with ring wear, are getting to be a bit of a cliché – but they still look damn cool and this one carries the effect over to the back cover of the digipack (but enough already with CDs printed to look like records!)
According to the press sheet, Black was held up at gunpoint at the Radio Shack when he was buying a headphone extension cord. Actually, this is Black’s fourth release (he did two albums under the name of simply Gus) – a reminder that it sometimes takes forever to get noticed.

Tuesday, Feb. 14
5. UNCUT magazine with free CD – New Music for 2006
I have a few of these already (Jenny Lewis, Neko Case, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah), but that makes for little islands of familiarity in the car ride preview. The new Belle & Sebastian track reminds me I need to download the whole CD from emusic and damn if the inane Sparks song, “Metaphor” (“girls dig metaphors”) doesn’t stick like pre-chewed gum. I can do without Plan B (I’m just not the hip-hop type) and Kris Kristofferson’s offering (“This Old Road”), but I’m sure I’ll make some new friends elsewhere in these 15 songs.
6. JACK JOHNSON and FRIENDS– Sing-A-Longs and Lullabies for the film Curious George (Brushfire Records)
What a happy surprise to get this unsolicited CD! Johnson’s style is just so good-natured and catchy. Grace jumped on it right away, and we were happily groovin’ while we finished our pre-dinner work.

Other recent deliveries:
7. 13 GHOSTS – Cicada (Skybucket Records)
21 tracks that totally intrigue on first listen. I put the CD on while doing other work and kept getting pulled back to ask, ‘what’s that? That’s cool.’ Looking forward to the next spin.
Out March 4.
8. MARIA TAYLOR – 11:11 (Saddle Creek)
Second copy of a CD I got last year, sent because Taylor is coming to town next March (25th, at the State Theatre).
9. DESOLE – A Story to Tell (Abacus Recordings)
Said to mix indie rock, pop and post-hardcore, this sextet from Phoenix, AZ is not to be confused to deSol, the bilingual (Spanish/English) band from New Jersey, previously profiled for the Post.
Out March 7th.
10. The HOPEFULS – The Fuses Refuse to Burn (2024 Records)
Formerly known as the Olympic Hopefuls (we can all guess why they couldn’t keep that name), these Minneapolis guys appear onstage in matching tracksuits, and have won, not athletic awards, but numerous music honors in their hometown.
They Say: “combines a bit of Weezer guitar grit with the playful, carefree anthems of bands like The Cars and The Apples in Stereo.”
I Say: Yeah, no argument with that – except that I would never call the Cars' meticulously produced pop "carefree." The Hopefuls, however, have a casual, bright bounce.
11. STEVE WYNN & The MIRACLE 3 - …tick…tick…tick (Down There/Red Eye)
Today’s Washington Post preview for tomorrow night’s show, along with Rachel Sage, who appears at the same venue tonight.
12. JEROME DILLON – nearLY :reminder (KUFALA Recordings/La Cosa Nostra)
Dillon served as drummer and occasional guitarist with Nine Inch Nails for six years and four albums, and now serves himself as writer, producer and arranger while playing drums dobro, guitars, stand-up bass, ukulele, melotron, piano, and violin. His guests include Afghan Whigs/Twilight Singers' Greg Dulli and Decemberists violinist Petra Haden.
They Say: "reminiscent of artists such as Pink Floyd, The Cure, and Dead Can Dance…Baroque strings and acoustic instrumentation with aggressive, bombastic drums and bass.”
Song Title I Like: “One Day I Was Gone”
Out April 11, 2006.
13. KT TUNSTALL - Eye To The Telescope (Relentless/Virgin)
Half Scottish, one quarter Irish, one quarter Cantonese, Tunstall has gone from playing small pubs in her Scotland to a Mercury Prize nomination and double-platinum British sales. Produced by Steve Osborne (U2, The Cure, New Order, Doves), compared to Fleetwood Mac and Rickie Lee Jones, Tunstall’s debut sold over one million copies in the UK (that’s four times platinum there) making her the best selling female artist in the UK last year. And unlike Brandi Carlisle, whose debut came with similar Next Big Girl Thing press. This one intigues me.
14. UNTIED STATES – Retail Detail (self-released)
That’s Un-tied, as in shoelaces, not United, as in our country ‘tis of thee. Atlanta art-rock experimentalists said to recalls Swans, Jesus Lizard, and Brainiac, among others. Which doesn’t rock my socks.
They say: “their first conscious attempt to ameliorate their subconscious with a very real portrayal of their immediate existences.”
I say: what the hell does that mean?
The PR people have posted two tracks online, so you can hear for yourself (the second one really grates on me…):
http://www.untiedstates.us/music/It_s_Not_Goodbye.mp3
http://www.untiedstates.us/music/You_Own_Your_Own.mp3
Out May 2.

Emusic purchases:
15. The WRENS
When I realized I was going to London next month, I started looking for musical possiblilities of shows to see while I was there. I got tix to see The Go! Team at a cool place called Koko, and the Wrens will be playing at a London college while I’m there as well. So, I’m checking ‘em out.
16. ISAAC HAYES
When I saw that the Black Moses was available for cheap download, I was ready to go. I have “Shaft” already (but of course!) but I wanted a few of the other greatest hits – “Walk On By,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Never Can Say Goodbye.”
17. EDDIE ANGEL, KAISERS, et al
Today’s other Post preview – the Spinout Records showcase at the IOTA next Monday. Angel himself does publicity for the little indie label, but he didn’t get any CDs out to me in time, so I made my own 20 track sampler from tracks on emusic. Sadly, Sir Bald Diddley and His Wig-Outs aren’t in the show, but I did get to hear “2000 lb. Werewolf.”

YTD: 93

P.S. Whoa! Snowboard cross!

Pazz and Jop and Rock and Roll

The Village Voice Pazz and Jop critics poll came out in last week’s edition, and you can see my ballot here.

Again, I’m very mad at myself for forgetting the Decemberists’ “Picaresque,” which would have gone on the list in place of the various artists’ tribute to the Beatles’ “Rubber Soul.”
And lately, the household has been rocking to the Wilco live CD, “Kicking Television,” which arrived too late in the year to make the list, but I can see (hear) now was truly a contender for the Top Ten.

Monday, February 6:
Purchased:
1. ROD STEWART – The Rock & Roll Collection (Rebound Records)
If this hadn’t been $1.74 in Target clearance, I’d probably call it a rip-off, especially once I took off the nicely designed cardboard envelope around the CD and found a cheesier cover beneath, calling this “The Rock Album.” But it’s a good set of 11 songs – a few big hits like “Every Picture Tells a Story” and “Twistin’ the Night Away,” plus a bunch of Stewart favorites – “An Old Raincoat…” and “Let Me Be Your Car.”

Sent:
2. UNITED STATES – Retail Detail (self-released)
From Atlanta, and I’d tell you more, but the press bio is in a hard-to-read type and I’m too lazy to wade through it right now. According to my pals at Team Clermont publicity, recommended if you like Sonic Youth, Deerhoof, Jesus Lizard, Brainiac and Pattern is Movement. Which may actually leave me out.
3. CRISTINA BRANCO – Ulisses (Decca)
Somehow I had it in my head that this woman had some kind of operatic background, and wasn’t expecting much from the CD when I put it on as my go-to-sleep selection. How wrong I was. The woman is a rising star of the Portuguese fado style, and has a gorgeous voice which she (thankfully) never pushes. Her style is clean and direct, not a lot of fussy arrangements and when halfway through the CD, she breaks into a lovely rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “A Case of You,” it’s a knockout.
She’s coming to perform at the Birchmere on March 12 (why they sent the CD) and is definitely a pitch I’ll make.

Saturday, February 4:
Purchased:
4. FIONA APPLE – Extraordinary Machine (Epic)
Finally. Been flirting with this one for weeks. She just opened for Coldplay in DC and frankly, right now, she’s the act I’d rather see.
5. CATIE CURTIS – Acoustic Valentine (TK )
$15 at Curtis’ show at the Wolf Trap Barns. More than I would usually spend (I’d wait to pick it up on sale or online) but I was so taken with the performance, and I had gotten my tix for free, so I was ready to give back. Curtis radiates a simple, straightforward warmth that has its feminist/gay underpinnings but really just wants everyone to get along and be happy in their own way. John Jennings, who works with Mary Chapin Carpenter and provides the sort of dead-on pure guitar picking that makes every song sound profound, accompanied her. Funny thing is, the CD I bought, which is a selection of Curtis’ favorite love songs (many of which she did at the show) performed acoustically with Jennings, is rather tepid in its studio form. Just goes to show that sometimes live magic cannot be replicated.

In other live music news, the charming live wire Matt Nathanson will be releasing an official live CD (he allows taping at his shows and I have a few fun bootlegs) in April. He’s another performer whose studio releases can’t match the delight of his concerts.

CD trade-in store:
6. ANNIE LENNOX – No More I Love You’s CD single
I may have this already, but it was only 50 cents, so I couldn’t take the chance.
7. ELVIS COSTELLO – Get Happy (Rhino)
Working on completing my set of two-disc reissues, which offer all sorts of bonus goodies on the second disc.
8. UNCUT magazine – Thunder Road: Songs Inspired by The Boss
Funny, I missed this on the newsstand, but “Thunder Road” is on my list of top five songs. Ever. So, of course, I couldn’t let this slip away.

Friday, February 3:
Purchased
9. ANIMAL COLLECTIVE - Feels (Fat Cat)
Available though the emusic account, purchased without my having heard a note. But it’s kept coming up in the Best Of’s, so I figured it was time. I miss CD booklets with online purchases, though.
I gather it’s a bit loosey-goosey, and I love this member’s review: “Too much hippie in the hippie dippy. OR: no more brownies for you, mister.”
10. PASTE Magazine free CD
(I’ll consider this as a purchase as I bought a subscription)
I like Paste, and I would like to write for it someday, but I’m at that phase (read: age) in life when I prefer my magazines less dense (read: bigger type).
There’s a bunch of my favorites on sampler #20 – Flaming Lips, Josh Ritter, Elbow, Ray Davies – and a slew that I’m sure I’ll be happy to get to know. But no free DVD this time.
11. NEKO CASE – Fox Confessor Brings the Flood (ANTI-)
One of those albums that existed on the edge of my radar and, while I may not have had it on the list of things to actively seek out, I said a variation of “oh goody” to see it in the mail, especially as I’ve been enjoying Case’s work on the last New Pornographers’ CD.
Out March 7th.
12. JUST A FIRE – Spanish Time (Sickroom Records)
“Detroit’s most radical rock ‘n’roll collective,” from the same Detroit scene that spawned the White Stripes and Brendan Benson.
Out March 20th.

Sent:
13. EUGENE EDWARDS – My Favorite Revolution (Flagship Recordings)
Comparisons have been made to Elvis Costello, Squeeze, Tom Petty and he’s supposedly rocking the LA power pop scene.
14. SOLEDAD BROTHERS – The Hardest Walk (Alive Records)

Thursday, Feb. 2
15. CATIE CURTIS – Dreaming in Romance Languages (Vanguard)
Curtis was supposed to be a part of this week’s Post preview but, since her show was on its way to selling out, the editor asked me to remove her section of the preview. But here’s today’s rant: though I rewrote the story to cover the deletion, someone else at the paper put back a reference to Curtis’ show selling out – and misspelled her name! It wouldn’t annoy me quite so much but a few of the copy editors are thorough to the point of anal-retentive when they question me about my work, and seem to gloat a bit when they catch me in an error, so I hate taking the fall for whoever screwed this up.
16. The ENDLESS – The Republic of Heaven (Queen of the Moon Music) Here’s what I wrote for Hyperactive! Music magazine, which will come out next month:
“This husband-and-wife team call themselves an “ethereal dreampop duo” and their debut full-length, a musical meditation on love and loss (inspired by the death of her mom) lives up to that description, and a few more besides. Adriana Roze’s haunting voice, echoing Kate Bush, Jane Siberry, even Siouxie Sioux on occasion, creates an art-house/goth vibe, while David Roze’s precise, layered accompaniment envelopes the vocals like a long velvet cloak. Some might find the sonic decorum and emotional sentiments a tad twee, and the languid, somber tone sometimes flirts with the maudlin, but the aching sincerity of this pair won’t allow you to shake the impression of shadows dancing just beyond the peripheral. Cynics need not apply.”
They didn’t ask, but I would have given it 2 and a half (out of 4) stars.

Wednesday, February 1:
17. VARIOUS ARTISTS - I Am the Resurrection: A Tribute to John Fahey (Vanguard)
Featuring Fruit Bats, Sufjan Stevens (the one with the cheerleaders), Devendra Banhart (the one with all the hair), Calexico, M. Ward (who produced), Grandaddy (heard they broke up) and a bunch of people I never heard of before. I confess, I don’t know Fahey’s originals, so it’ll be hard to say how these tunes stack up.
Out on February 14th.

18. FLAMIN’ GROOVIES – Members Edition (United Audio Entertainment)
My Giant supermarket is selling CDs now (!!), in a big cardboard display where you have to look for them like you’re picking out vegetables. The lowest priced CDs are $4 and the highest are $10. Most of the$10 ones (earlier albums by Aerosmith, Green Day) could be picked up cheaper elsewhere, but this is the one bargain I found. Sound quality?

19. LYLAS – Lessons for Lovers (Fictitious Records)
LYLAS – my 15-year-old daughter signs notes to her best pals with this – Love Ya Like A Sister.
They Say: “Lylas combines delicate, skewed pop and a distinctly American aesthetic with some of the quirkier sensibilities of baroque songs of yore.”

Monday, January 30:
20. JAMES HUNTER – People Gonna Talk (Go/Rounder Records)
This guy’s good! The minute I put it on, I was smitten with his voice – back to the smooth, soulful R&B of the 50’s and 60’s like Al Green and Sam Cooke. The CD was recorded at Toe Rag Studios, the UK's premiere analogue recording facility, where the White Stripes recorded 2003’s 'Elephant,’ and (according to the press kit) was recorded entirely live - without overdubs, computers, or even headphones – which makes for really warm sound. Fun factoid: Hunter used to sing with Van Morrison.
While Terry was listening, he said he liked it, too, but voiced his worry that maybe such music sounds too much like vintage soul, like what’s the point? Gracie, however, is 15, so what does she know of Way Back When. “This is an old style?” she asked. “Maybe we should bring this back.”
Out March 7th.

Saturday, January 28
21. JOSH RITTER – The Animal Years (V2)
Out on April 4th and I’m delighted to get it early. Saw him perform at the IOTA last year, and he was wonderful. Afterwards, when I spoke to him after the show, and told him that I’d named his last CD one of the year’s best, he hugged me. And he was wearing red sneakers with a vintage baggy suit. Did I tell you he’s wonderful?
22. BROTHERS PAST – This Feeling’s Called Goodbye (SCI Fidelity)
This week’s Post preview (paired with a classical trio), these guys combine electronica and jam band grooves. I liked the CD so much on first listen, I put it on again that evening while dinner guests were in, and it sounded fine once more. Would have liked to go to the show, but after the Catie Curtis show (same night), I was tired and wanted to see Steve Martin and Prince on SNL.
23. The LOST PATROL – Lonesome Sky (self-released)
I wrote about this band last summer for the Post, conducting an email interview with the female lead singer while I was in upstate New York during my father’s decline. She was a sweet person, grateful for the coverage, and she sent me the new CD with a sweet note: “thanks for your support of us.”
24. CASIOTONE for the PAINFULLY ALONE – Etiquette (Tomlab)
Coming to the Galaxy Hut next month.
25. DEERHOOF – The Runners Four (Kill Rock Stars)
Bay area art-pop darlings, #6 in Pitchfork magazine’s Top 50 Albums of 2005. Someone else says: “20 different misses at conventional songwriting, silly attempts at traditionalism that go fascinatingly awry in every way possible...one of the year's most playfully dense, eminently relistenable calamities.” And a Billboard magazine list of artists’ choices had this one selected by Beck and Jeff Tweedy. So that’s a promise of something strange.
26. HEM – No Word from Tom (Waveland Records)
Coming to the Birchmere in coming weeks to open for my dear Josh Ritter. This CD collects a number of cover tunes and rarities. On first listen, lovely stuff.
27. The BEAUTIFUL GIRLS – We’re Already Gone (Cornerstone RAS)
Australian critics’ darlings, they’re going out on the “Yellow Snow Tour,” a name that doesn’t inspire confidence.
They Say: “a sonic mix of reggae, dub, hiphop and rock influences.” Also, a reference to “surfer/rock reggae.”
Out February 14th.

YTD: 76
I had to deduct one CD from last entry’s total, having discovered that I listed the same CD twice (which I do only if I receive an actual duplicate disc).