Top 10 of 2011

Laptop has died, so here's the quick list. Expanded post to follow soon.

1. Flogging Molly-The Speed Of Darkness
2. Beady Eye-Different Gear, Still Speeding
3. Foo Fighters-Wasting Light
4. Alice Cooper-Welcome 2 My Nightmare
5. Imelda May-Mayhem
6.Hayes Carll-KMAGYOYO
7.Those Darlins-Screws Get Loose
8.Docial Distortion-Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes
9. Deer Tick-Divine Providence
10. Lou Reed/Metallica-Lulu

The top ten was extremeley difficult this year. Last year I didn't feel there was enough good music to even have a top ten, this year I had trouble figuring out what to leave off of the list. Year end recap on it's way.

Liam V. Noel-

Hey kids. Back from a too long absence. Here we go.

Recently, Oasis main man Noel Gallagher released his first solo album, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. His brother and ex-band mate released a new CD with his band, Beady Eye (called Different Gear, Still Speeding). I inexplicably never reviewed that disc on this blog.  So to correct that and kill two birds with one stone, here is a compare and contrast on the two records. It's a little short, but I think this will tell you all you need to know. All categories are scored on a scale of 1-5.

Sing along hooks:
Beady Eye-4.5
Noel-5.0

Guitar driven rockers:
Beady eye-4.5
Noel-1

Interesting lyrics:
Beady eye-4
Noel -4

Soaring Pop moments:
Beady Eye-4
Noel-4.5

Variety:
Beady Eye-4.5
Noel-3

Classic Rock Sound:
Beady Eye-5
Noel-3

Sounds Like Oasis:
Beady Eye-5
Noel-4.5

Total Points (out of 35):
Beady Eye-31.5
Noel-25

So there you have it. Beady Eye is the clear winner here. This is not to suggest that Noel Gallagher has made a bad record. Far from it. There are moments of pure pop perfection, and the first three songs are fabulous. It is more of an introspective record than one might expect, which always leads itself to a more mellow record by any artist. The songs are based around acoustic guitar strumming, with many layers added around. There's some quality stuff to be sure, and a bit of experimentation as well, but there's not much variety to this record. Good start to the solo career, but since we all know what Mr. Gallagher is capable of this is a bit of a disappointment.

And, Liam, wow...who knew? To be fair, he has some members of Oasis with him, but the songs are strong enough to stand on their own. This was Liam's chance to prove himself without being reined in by Noel. And he's done an excellent job. Mid tempo Brit rock mixes with ballads and some all out rockers to make an entertaining listen that consistently rewards. Sure, the Beatles worship is on full display but by this point one expects nothing less. Great record, and a contender for Top Ten of the year.

Beady Eye-Different Gear, Still Speeding-4.5 out of 5 Daves
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds-3 out of 5 Daves

P.S.-Speaking of Top Ten, that list is coming soon. there are a few more things to hear and another post or two to write, so the activity is about to increase here. See you soon.

Recent Release- Chickenfoot III

The good news is that Chickenfoot III is leaps and bounds ahead of their first self titled release. The bad news is some of the same problems remain.

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few years you know that Chickenfoot is a band featuring the line up of Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith. And the reason they called their second record III is because a band's second record is traditionally not very good, so they just skipped it and went straight to number three. Funny. Oh, and the package is in 3D which is, granted, a gimmick to get some extra sales, but a fun one.

Okay, so here's the good stuff. The band sounds awesome, they've grown into a cohesive unit. Everybody sounds fantastic. Chad Smith is one hell of a rock drummer, I've always liked him in his day job with the Chili Peppers, but this is a different sound, just a powerhouse. Joe Satriani is a bona-fide guitar hero, but he pulls back a little here and plays like you should in a band. This will annoy some of his fans but he also spreads out and plays some acoustic stuff (loves me some dobro!) which is a nice change. Michael Anthony even gets a few good licks in on bass as well, though as usual you have to turn up your bass response to hear him, but certainly a good idea to do so. As for Sammy, he sounds about 20 years younger than his 63 years and can still scream with the best of 'em.

Song-wise this record is much fuller than the first as well. The music is slightly more varied. There's the acoustic and catchy "Different Devil" which would have made a killer Van Hagar single, the blues based hard rock of album opener "Last Temptation" and Zeppelin-ish "Dubai Blues", the all out non stop groove on "Up Next" and "Three And A Half Letters" and more.

This is a step forward lyrically too. Hagar's lyrics have always been a bit of a mixed bag, many being just half-assed sex/party songs. Yet he does occasionally get a little deeper and observational. The guy  has something to say, but most people fail to look past the way he presents himself to see what's actually going on. Well, I'm happy to report that there are some of the good ones here. "Three And A Half Letters" is by far the best, it's about letters Sammy received from homeless people asking him for help. Tears, man. Also on the good list is "Up Next", Sammy's vision of the pearly gates. Not exactly biblical but a good song. Bonus track "No Change" is a nice generic protest song, and "Different Devil", as mentioned earlier is a nice sing along (with a one line exception). There are some more but these stand out.

And now for the problem areas. The first Chickenfoot CD was criticized for having too many songs that never really went anywhere and fell flat. They were also a touch too long for the pop rock songs they were. While there have been improvements in this area, a few songs like "Alright Alright", "Lighten Up" and the unwisely picked first single "Big Foot" still suffer from this problem (even if the video is kinda funny). They also suffer lyrically. I'm sure they're meant to be fun, but just come off a little lazy via comparison to what Sammy can do when he really tries. Also, "Dubai Blues" is a poor title and bad pun.

So bottom line is that Chickenfoot III is far from perfect, but has enough going for it to make it worthwhile. I really like seven of the eleven songs, and I must admit that even some of the sillier songs are growing on me with each listen. This is the kind of good time, big ass rock record that people just don't make anymore and that alone makes it a winner in my book.

4 out of 5 Daves

P.S.-I know, I know, no video. There's only one official, and it's a song I slammed so I don't think that's a fair representation of the CD or my review. Search for Chickenfoot III on YouTube, lots of stuff will come up.

Recent Release Roundup

Anthrax-Worship Music

This, finally, is the CD Anthrax fans have been waiting for. Not just because Joey Belladonna is back on vocals (though he's never sounded better), but because it's the strongest record they've done in years.  It's a little bit darker than most Anthrax records and the goofy humor is missed. However, the music more than makes up for it. There are all out thrash numbers, which somehow feel fresh not dated, some heavy groove stuff (a la John Bush era) one or two tracks that are just this side of rock radio songs, and even a Soundgarden style number. An unexpectedly varied set from these guys.

As mentioned, this record is a little on the dark side, which is my only complaint. It just seems as though the band felt they had something to prove and they're trying too hard to prove to us how "metal" they are. The pentagram with the A for Anthrax in it was cute the first time, but come on guys we get it. You're metal. We've known it all along. The music speaks volumes, no need to push the point.

Anyway, a solid set. A few misfires here, but a winner nonetheless.

Key tracks: "Fight 'Em Til You Can't", "Crawl" "The Devil You Know", "Revolution Screams"
4 out of 5 Daves

P.S.-The sixteen year old me is amazingly happy with this set, and that counts for a lot.

Bottle Rockets-Not So Loud

After nineteen years as a band, the Bottle Rockets are releasing their first live acoustic album. The alt-country band has been criminally overlooked by most, coming out in the days of Uncle Tupelo, and being from the same town, these guys haven't ever really been given their fair due. This is a pity, because they have been putting out consistently quality material the whole time. The Bottle Rockets live shows are known for being loud, raucous good times, which makes this set all the more special and appreciated.

Captured live at the now defunct Lucas Schoolhouse in St. Louis, the recordings come from two nights in a very intimate setting, and are all the better for it. The casual environment created a chance for Brian Henneman to tell some entertaining stories, but more importantly it enables the focus to be placed squarely on the music. Coming across somewhere between Woody Guthrie and Neil Young, this is a delight of a set, and one that is recommended for anyone who has ever been curious about the band or considered themselves a fan of alt-country music.

Key Tracks: "Lucky Break", "Perfect Far Away", "1000 Dollar Car", "Rural Route" "Kerosene"
41/2 out of 5 Daves

Dream Theater-A Dramatic Turn Of Events

For the first time since the beginning of the decade I've been excited about a new DT record. After the departure of drummer and key writer Mike Portnoy I was quite intrigued. I have long thought that Portnoy had been given too much power within the band and wasn't the right guy to steer the ship. So I was looking forward to where the band would go on this first record without him.

And the answer is: nowhere new. I hear nothing but retreads of older material. Maybe my tastes have just moved too far away, but after four listens I remain largely disappointed. Now having said that, all the elements are there. The musicianship is still first rate. New drummer Mike Mangini fits like a glove, guitarist John Petrucci still plays lightning fast while conveying emotion, and James LaBrie is singing better than he has in years. So what happened?

Some of the blame can be put on the horrible job done in the mixing/mastering of the disc. It sounds quiet, flat and lifeless, even when turned up to twice the necessary volume. But the big problem is in the songs themselves. In the rush to put out an album and make a statement, the craft of songwriting has been lost. There are no memorable choruses here, something which Dream Theater has always been capable of in the
past. Sparse lyrics that fail to capture the imagination abound, and is it just me or have we heard some of these solos before? The heavier songs are not heavy enough and the quiet parts are too quiet. All in all it's an unmemorable collection of material.

Which is all too bad, because the frustrating thing is that there's a good record here somewhere. There are flashes of greatness in each song, it's just that the good stuff gets swallowed up in a bunch of muck. I believe that if the band would have taken a little more time here they could have really had something. I can't actually say it's bad, but I remain underwhelmed. However, prog-metal fans and die hard DT fans will no doubt be pleased.

Key Tracks: "On The Backs Of Angels", "Lost Not Forgotten" "This Is The Life"
2 1/2 out of 5 Daves (though my brother will surely disagree...)

Got a few more new CDs to write up. Look for more stuff this week.

Recent Release: Alice Cooper - Welcome 2 My Nightmare

Alice is back with the sequel to his classic first solo album (sans original band) "Welcome To My Nightmare". I usually don't like the idea of revisiting previous albums but this works very well. It is one of the best Alice albums in years.

 The storyline is vague, but coherent if you really pay attention and can use your imagination, something required for almost all of Alice's work. Musically, the album takes many twists and turns in style, and features small tidbits of music from the original "Nightmare" peppered throughout the record. It also reunites the surviving members of the original Alice Cooper Band for a few songs, which is a nice touch.

The only downside here is that this record is unlikely to bring many new folks to the party, but for true fans it's a great ride. Let's peel back the sheets and look at Alice's new nightmare track by track. Possible Spoilers.

I Am Made Of You- Piano driven opener in the "Hello Hooray" tradition. Not entirely sure who's singing here...Alice? The Devil?  Steven? Don't know, but a big, grandiose track with a touch of creepiness to set the mood.

Caffeine- Total Detroit rocker. Gotta stay awake somehow, right?

The Nightmare Returns- Caffeine stopped working. Short and sweet song to lull Alice to sleep...

A Runaway Train- All aboard the Nightmare Express. This song actually sounds like a train running faster down the tracks all the time. How'd Alice get here...and where are we going?

Last Man On Earth- Alice Cooper's Tom Waits tribute song. Complete with tuba and everything. Or maybe it's Gilbert And Sullivan. Possibly both.

The Congregation- Okay, so not the last man...but a chance to meet Alice's guide to this dream world he's found himself in. Some nice humour here, moves the story along but not a very memorable track.

I'll Bite your Face Off- Alice Cooper's Rolling Stones tribute. Total attitude, total Alice. And who's this woman he's singing about...?

Disco Bloodbath Boogie Fever- Alice still has nightmares about Disco, but so do a lot of people. The music here sounds like bad German techno/club/dance music. And Alice raps which is pretty funny. Until the rock and roll part kicks in, the bloodbath part ensues, and all is right with the world.

Ghouls Gone Wild- Zombie beach dance party!!! Survivors of the disco maybe? Catchy as hell.

Something To Remember Me By- Possibly the prettiest song Alice has ever done, sure to make the ladies cry, but I think this is being sung by Alice to one of the lovely bikini zombies he just hooked up with. And if so, I don't want to know what he's giving her. Or this song could be a prequel to...

When Hell Comes Home- a dark song in both mood and lyrics. Is this the back story as to why Alice (the character) turned out like he did? Very affecting, but again, really dark.

What Baby Wants- Baby gets. And it's time to pay up. Ke$ha guests here and doesn't totally embarrass herself or the song. She almost sounds as evil as her character requires...and has she bit his face off yet?

I Gotta Get Outta Here- Co-written with Patterson Hood of Drive By Truckers fame, and those familiar with his work will hear it. Story wise we're coming to the end. Alice has had it with this whole nightmarish world is trying to find his way out. And we'll leave it at that.

The record ends with an Underture, combining music from both "Nightmare" records and a few other Cooper classics as well. a little sophistication to go out with, and to give the listener a chance to think about the record. And you should think. Alice (the artist) usually has another layer to his work, that's why his stuff is so good and bears repeated listening and/or viewing. Anybody can do the shock rock thing, but none can do it with the intelligence, mirth, and quality of Alice Cooper. When he's firing on all cylinders, he's the king.

Despite its flaws, which are few and forgiveable,  5 out of 5 Daves.

The Return of W.A.M.

Whassup rockers!

My apologies for the long absence, I kinda took most of the Summer off. As a result, I missed out on reviewing some decent records, which I'll try to catch up on soon. There's lots of new stuff coming as well, the fall season is always a good one for new music. I may begin adding some other features as well, but I don't want to talk too much about that as plans may change due to time restraints.

But the blog is definitely back. Look for new reviews coming later this week, some of my favorite old school hard rock/metal artists are releasing new material Tuesday and I'll put up some reviews here shortly.

Thanks for checking in. Keep it loud.

Still Crushing On Martha Quinn

MTV is officially 30 years old. I am nine years older, but was probably 11 or 12 by the time we got it on our cable system. I remember my parents visiting their friends who had it and watching for hours with their kids. We thought it was the coolest thing ever. And at the time, it was.

People sometimes forget how revolutionary MTV really was. Apart from marrying music and movies in a way never done before, MTV created, cultivated and maintained countless scenes and bands throughout its first 15 years or so. It presented a new way to think about music, and a new way for artists to present their message, or at least promote their image.

And it was OURS. Every kid growing up in the 80's through the mid 90's could call MTV their own. Sure, they played a lot of stuff I didn't like, but it also turned me on to forms of music and bands that I would have otherwise ignored, especially in the early days. As a kid I didn't realise that New Wave was an exclusionary movement. I didn't consider it pop, or dance or anything but new music. Throughout all my musical twists and detours a pop sensibility has stayed with me and I blame 1983 on MTV for it.

But it was more than the music and the style, it was the snarkiness of the promos combined with the brashness of the bands and artistry of the directors that gave the channel its personality. It was almost a perfect voice for the youth of the day, even those who claimed to hate it or that it wasn't playing the right type of music still had at least a few programming blocks catered to their taste, and everybody knew what was going on with MTV. We all watched it incessantly, even if we didn't want to , because there was always a feeling that you'd miss something if you didn't.

And then they killed it. Reality shows killed the video star. Or words to that effect. There are still places to see music on television of course, probably more now than ever before. The magic, however, has gone. More's the pity.

But still, 30 years ago today, music changed forever, and that's to be celebrated. It wasn't perfect, and probably did as much harm as good for some, but I miss it. And I want my MTV...back.

So here's a short list of MTV moments that are etched into my mind in no particular order. Feel free to add your own in the comments.

1. Guns N' Roses smash the set on "Headbanger's Ball". Local St. Louis icon Smash was working on MTV at the time, and found himself smack dab in the middle of the chaos. What fun.

2. Seeing Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video world premier. I've never been a fan of the man or his music, but this mini-movie blew every body's mind at the time. Still kinda does.

3. Remote Control. Still my favorite game show.

4. MTV in concert. Saturday nights they ran hour long concerts, well before those shows found their way to home video. I remember the Go-Gos, Sammy Hagar, Huey Lewis And the News, Dexy's Midnight Runners, The Cars, Iron Maiden (with Paul Di'Anno), The Stray Cats, Guns N' Roses, the list goes on.

5. Martha Quinn and Tabitha Soren. Never at the same time though, my pubescence couldn't have handled that.

6. Specialty music shows. Headbanger's Ball (required viewing for me and my circle), Yo! MTV Raps (never been a rap fan, but Dr. Dre and Ed Lover used to slay me), Dial MTV (when us rockers actually got the vote), Club MTV (good for watching beautiful people gyrate) and of course 120 Minutes, the show that made alternative the norm and showed us what Teen Spirit smelled like.

7.Motorhead dressed as carolers singing "Silent Night" for a Christmas promo. Hilarious.*

8. MTV Spring Break. Always good concerts (Cheap Trick, Van Halen, Beastie Boys, Aerosmith) and fun segments.

9. The classic promos. everything from the "I Want My MTV" stuff to Gilbert Gottfried's improved spots, Dennis Leary's rants, the choir spots, the cab driver, the "words just sitting here" spot, all the freaky animations and my favorite one, the beer ad send up. Still love that stuff when it pops up on the net.

10 MTV News. From the funny stuff (Tabitha Soren saying "Metal-Lisha" meaning Metallica), to the unexpected (John Lydon walking off set in a Pistols reunion interview) and the "it-can't-be-true" death announcements (Stevie Ray Vaughn, Cliff Burton, Freddie Mercury, Eric Carr, etc.) Kurt Loder and John Norris (remember him?) actually enriched my life. Sounds weird now, but they did.

These are just a few of the many memories I have, and that's leaving out "The Young Ones"!  Thanks MTV for the great times. Call me when you decide to get back to your roots, I'll be waiting.

*By the way, it is a fallacy that hard rock/heavy metal was ignored by MTV. Before the specialized programming listed above, there were only videos in rotation. I clearly remember seeing Motorhead, Judas Priest, Dio and Iron Maiden videos in semi regular rotation during the channel's early days. They had to play whatever they had, and early British metal groups had videos. They weren't played with the same regularity as pop, but they were there. Maybe you had to watch obsessively like I did but "Iron Fist", "Breaking the Law", "Rainbow In The Dark" and "Run To The Hills" were all in my head before I ever had the records, and it wasn't from radio as the pictures were there too.

More Imelda May Awesomeness

As promised here's another new Imelda May tune, "Proud And Humble".

Recent Release-Imelda May - Mayhem

For those who don't know the name Imelda May, you soon will. She's fantastic.

Her new CD, Mayhem, is a full on blast of rockabilly blues mixed with retro swing and lounge music, sung by one of the best voices I've heard in a long long time. Sure, the influences are old, but  the sound is fresh, perhaps timeless.

The only flaw I can find with this CD is that it's a touch long, and there are a few too many ballads for my tastes, especially in a row, but there's not a song I don't like. She sings it like she means it with a lot of passion, and a wicked sense of humor as well. From the rockabilly blast of "Psycho" to the groove laden title track, to the super cool  "Inside Out", there's a lot here to keep your toes tapping. And on the softer side, "Eternity" and "All For You" are as successful ballads as you're likely to hear.

The biggest and best surprise on this disc is her cover of the old '80's tune "Tainted Love" (originally by Soft Cel). This is one of those rare occasions where changing the gender of the performer changes the meaning and impact of the song, even a pure pop confection such as this. A stroke of genius, this one.

By the time the bonus track , a remix of her earlier single, "Johnny's Got A Boom Boom", Imelda is sure to have won you over. This may not be a perfect disc, but its variety and overall vibe is quite entertaining, and Ms. May's voice will earn her a place in your collection, if not your greasy little rocker-billy heart.

41/2 out of 5 Daves.

P.S. The song featured here is but one side of Imelda May, I was torn between a few examples. I'll post another one soon to give a better idea of the breadth of her songwriting and vocal abilities. Watch this space, then buy this CD.

RIP Wurzel

Micheal Burston, AKA Wurzel, died over the weekend. He was a guitarist for Motorhead during their only four piece line up. Some of my favorite Motorhead records feature his playing. "No Remorse, Orgasmatron, Rock And Roll, 1916, and Bastards are all huge records for me (and I still have my Orgasmatron vinyl, a prized possession).

This clip from the legendary and too awesome for words British sitcom "The Young Ones" was my introduction to Motorhead. It was a show that only certain people in my school understood, and Motorhead was a band that even fewer got. For me it was the perfect match up. Wurzel is the guitarist on your left. In true BBC fashion they cut to the wrong player at the wrong times during the song, but that makes this clip even more fun. Enjoy!

Oh and Wurzel, thanks for helping me stay an outsider through my teens, it has served me well. Rock on into eternity brother.

RIP Clarence Clemons

Clarence Clemons, sax player for Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band has passed away at age 69. The Big Man, as he was known, suffered a stroke a week ago and died tonight in the hospital. He was a big man, with an even bigger talent and will be missed.

This is probably my favorite Springsteen song, all about the E Street Band coming together. I can't think of a more fitting tribute. This one's for you, big man.

Recent Releases:Quickie Reviews

EDIT-6/13/11. THIS WENT UP INCOMPLETE LAST NIGHT. NOT SURE WHY. SORRY. HERE'S THE FULL THING, DAVE.

Here are a few new capsule reviews for you.

EDDIE VEDDER-UKULELE SONGS

Well, you can't fault the guy for false advertising. It is what it says it is, Eddie strumming on his Uke and singing away. There are a few instances of extra instrumentation and harmony vocals but if you blink you'll miss them. It's an interesting idea and one that puts the focus where it belongs..on the songs.

As for the songs, there are no real surprises here. Thiings start off with the Pearl Jam nugget "Can't Keep" and continue on with each song sounding like it belonged on one PJ album or another. This isn't a bad thing by any means,and songs like "Sleeping By Myself", "Longing To Belong" and "Satellite" are top notch as is the Cat Power duet "Tonight You Belong To Me".

The only real negative here is the length. The songs are all good enough and the ukulele is a fine sounding instrument, but after a while the gimmick wears thin.

3 out of 5 Daves.

HANK WILLIAMS III-HILLBILLY JOKER

This ain't new, this is "This Ain't Country". Perhaps a bit of history to help explain:

Most know Hank III as the son of Hank Williams Jr. He plays country music with an edge to it and sings about drinking, drugging, Satan, and all elements of the dark side of life. And he enjoys it. Outlaw Country indeed. However, there is another side to him, the metal side. Hank 3 has played with Phil Anselemo of Pantera in the band "Superjoint Ritual" and has his own metal outfit called "Assjack". When he tours the first half of his shows are country and the second half hardcore. An odd mix to be sure but he's made it work for him.

That's where this record comes in. It was originally titled "This Ain't Country" and presented to Curb records years ago. Curb shelved it as they were only interested in country music and preferably a slightly more sterile version at that. Long story short, the relationship went sour, and two albums later Hank 3 is free from his contract. But as a parting jab, Curb has finally released the record that caused all the fuss in the first place which brings us up to date.

Now all that's interesting enough, but what about the music? I went into this CD with low expectations. Any Hank 3 show I go to I generally leave about 4 or 5 songs into the hardcore set as it's never appealed to me and has always sounded achingly average to my ears. But I gotta say...I kinda like this. There are a few metal by numbers songs here, sure, but the majority of these songs are what 3 himself calls "Hellbilly music" and combines the country with the hardcore.The title track starts things off right while "Life Of Sin", "Hellbilly", and "Tennessee Driver" are standouts. It's not exactly perfect, but it is fun.

Okay, so the "Satan is cool, drugs are cool, imbecilic behavior in the name of rebellion is cool" lyrics are getting old but they fit in better here than on the country records. If you're a fan this is worth checking out as a curiosity if nothing else. Metal fans may want to give it a spin or two just to hear a variation on the form. Otherwise, check out "Straight To Hell" or "Lovesick Broke And Driftin'" for some of Hank 3's best work.

31/2 out of 5 Daves

IRON MAIDEN-FROM HERE TO ETERNITY (Best of 1990-2010)

Cash grab. Only useful for completests (me) and older fans who may not be keeping up with the band's current work.

Having said that, this is actually a pretty decent collection, and does a pretty good job representing the time period covered. Maiden make an interesting choice here in not selecting any songs featuring Blaze Bayley on vocals and instead going with live versions of the songs from his tenure in the band sung by Bruce Dickinson instead. Probably a wise move, but feels a little like cheating.

It is impossible to release a collection like this and please everyone. some favorites will always be left out, and hardcore fans will argue about the selections made for years. But this does act as a good primer for those unfamiliar with these songs. It is also a two disc release so there is room for a few deeper cuts here as well, and since Maiden purposely decided to price this as a single disc (I got my copy for $9.99), there is little to complain about. Besides, with Iron Maiden you can't go too far wrong.

Up, as always, The Irons!

41/2 out of 5 Daves

 See you soon.

Recent Release:Flogging Molly-Speed Of Darkness

Flogging Molly have returned with what may be their finest album to date. They have now officially proven that they are more than just a great Celtic punk rock band and are just simply a great band. One that makes personal, important records that deserve to be heard.

"Speed Of Darkness" is one of those rare albums that doesn't only get better each time you listen to it, it gets better as you listen to it. It rocks where it needs to, has thoughtful, effective ballads and just the right amount of the traditional Celtic touches to make this not just an album but an epic. Flogging Molly have gone for a slightly more stripped down sound here, but it works to their advantage.

The rock songs are focused squarely on the guitars and the straight forward rock sound.  Songs like "Revolution", "Saints And Sinners", and my favorite rocker "Oliver Boy (All Of Our Boys)" are classics in the making. On the opposite side "So Sail On" makes me want to lift your glass, sing, sway and salute everyone you've ever known. "This Present State Of Grace" and "A Prayer For Me In Silence" are two of the best ballads I've heard in a long time.  But truly there are no bad songs on this record. "The Power's Out" and first single "Don't Shut 'Em Down" are top notch as well.

As a fan, I am more than pleased. This is the record I would choose to introduce newbies to the band. Others may be punkier or have more of a Celtic vibe, but this is the culmination of everything Flogging Molly has done so far. Can't recommend it enough.

For the first time, 5 out of 5 Daves.

Recent Release Roundup

Due to various circumstances it's been a while since there's been any posts here. Well, let's fix that. Here are condensed versions of the reviews I've meant to post over the last month or so. This should get us back on track. so enjoy, then go out and buy.

Thanks for your patience,
Dave

THE CARS-MOVE LIKE THIS
The good news is that it still mostly sounds like 1983. The bad news is it still sounds like 1983. Still, there is a sense of maturity here and a knowledge of what's come since the band's heyday. And since the 80's quasi-revivalist sounds of The Killers, The Strokes and Franz Ferdinand have been successful it's about time someone from the actual decade came along and showed them all how to do it right. 

Everything you want in a Cars record is here. Catchy melodies, perfect blending of guitar and keys, precision rhythm and performance with an unwavering sense of energy and commitment. Not all songs are winners, the slow ones go on too long, and the sequencing is questionable but overall a good release sure to please long time fans and anyone else who likes a good dose of pure pop every now and then.
Key songs: "Keep On Knocking", "Too Late", "Sad Song", "Take Another Look"
3/12 out of 5 Daves.

RAY DAVIES-SEE MY FRIENDS
Okay, so duet albums are great, and tribute albums are great, but I'm not sure about duet albums that are a tribute to yourself. Seems like there's some kind of rule being broken there. But technicalities aside, this is a very good record.

This seems to be the door opening wide for a Kinks reunion which is worth buying it just in and of itself. Fortunately there are more than enough reasons outside of that to give this a solid recommendation. Davies has assembled a top notch (and somewhat surprising) group of guest musicians here. Each is allowed to put their own stamp on the material, and as a result the quality of the writing really shines through. This is a welcome treat for Kinks fans and just may be a good introduction to the uninitiated, or those unfamiliar with anything outside of "Lola" and "You really Got Me". There are a few missteps, sure (Metallica and Spoon you're both guilty) and some genuinely great collaborations (Jackson Brown, Amy MacDonald and The 88 w/Alex Chilton are highlights). This one has been in constant rotation since I got it. You should get it too.
Key Songs: Pretty much all of them
41/2 out of 5 Daves

STEVE EARLE: I'LL NEVER GET OUT OF THIS WORLD ALIVE
I've been a Steve Earle fan for years now, and a new release is always something to look forward to. I'm always interested to see where he's going next...It's just too bad that I'm disappointed with the current destination. It's not a bad place per se, but it's not one I'll be returning to often.

On this current record, Earle explores life and death on almost every song. Makes for a dark listen. The arrangements are quite sparse, which fits the subject matter. However, it gets a little tedious to listen to straight through. The performances are good, but subtle, and Earle is a very good writer. I like the ideas behind these songs and the presentation, and I particularly enjoyed the forays into Celtic music. But on the whole it just doesn't come together.
Key Songs: "Molly-O", "God Is God", "Heaven Or Hell", "Meet Me In The Alleyway"
3 out of 5 Daves

DUFF MCKAGEN'S LOADED-THE TAKING
I like Duff. I like pretty much everything I've heard him do, including side projects. But I don't like this. I wanted to, but I don't. It's listenable, it has it's moments. But it's heavy rock by numbers. The singles are good, and I like the overall sound, but it's not anything special. This does have the potential to grow on me, but at this point I'm unimpressed. This is the kind of album downloading was created for. Get the good stuff and leave the rest.
Key Tracks: "We Win", "Indian Summer", "She's An Anchor", "Cocaine"
2 1/2 out of 5 Daves

EDDIE SPAGHETTI-SUNDOWNER
If you know who Eddie Spaghetti is then you know what to expect. For those that don't, he is the lead singer/songwriter for garage punk band The Supersuckers, and for a sideline he makes country records as a solo artist. The majority of the songs are covers. Some are country classics, others are obscure rock songs played as no frills country. Some work and some don't, but it's a fun listen.

And that's all it's meant to be. Fun. It's greasy, silly. sometimes pervy, with a touch of sincerity thrown in around the edges for good measure. These records are family affairs with Spaghetti's wife as the cover model/backup vocalist and his son, Quattro, providing his own song to finish the proceedings. Cute gimmick, but the meat and potatoes are the cover songs selected. Say what you will about the overly simplistic delivery and half assed sarcasm involved, the guy's got taste. Bottom line, it ain't gonna change your life but it might just make ya smile. And sometimes that's enough.
Key Tracks: "Marie", "Party Dolls And Wine", "Everybody's Girl", "Jesus Never Lived On Mars"
3 1/2 out of 5 Daves (Did i just give a guy who covers Steve Earle a higher mark than Steve Earle? Wow.)

Okay, we're all caught up. Back soon.

Record Store Day 2011

As most of you know, today was Record Store Day, a virtual holiday for music geeks. Along with special promotions, there are limited releases that come out exclusively to be sold at participating RSD stores. It's a chance for us music fans to pick up some cool stuff, and a way to promote the independent record stores across the country and possibly send them into the black.

Let's face it, your ipod is all well and good, but there's nothing like holding the physical disc (vinyl or otherwise) in your hands, examining the artwork, adjusting the volume and getting acquainted with a new friend. That's the service these stores provide. Big box stores don't care much about the serious music fan, and are unlikely to stock much that isn't in the top 100 or isn't a well worn classic that everyone's heard a billion times to the point that it no longer has much relevance. You're going to find it difficult to order a disc to the store, and good luck getting any decent recommendations from the staff. Nope, you can only do that at your local, independent music store. And not just today, all the time.

I dropped the ball by not talking about Record Store Day on this blog before now, but I don't intend to let that mistake happen again.

As mentioned earlier, there are many limited releases, and some are hard to get your hands on. Due to other commitments I couldn't go shopping until late afternoon and I missed a few records that I really wanted (Bad Brains, Foo Fighters, Buck Owens, Mastodon/ZZ Top split, Rush). But here's a list of what I did buy.

CDs

Crowded House-North America Travelogue 2010 (RSD release)
Metallica-Live At Grimey's (RSD release last year-got it today)
Eddie Spaghetti-Sundowner

Vinyl

Flogging Molly-Don't Shut 'Em Down (single-RSD release)

Johnny Cash-With His Hot And Blue guitar (used-Sun label, great shape)
Joan Jett and The Blackhearts-I Love Rock And Roll (RSD 30th Anniv. release)
Pearl Jam-Vitalogy (new vinyl reissue)

It's probably a good thing I didn't get there too early, I might not have had any money left!!! Some worthy additions to the collection, I feel. Super excited about the Johnny Cash record. Also digging the Joan Jett, I had the original when it came out. I was eight years old and played it daily for a full summer. Interested to hear the Crowded House as many feel they are one of the most underrated 80's pop bands and this is a 3 disc live set so I hope it's good. Anyway, I've got lots to listen to and absorb in the coming weeks. Always makes me happy.

So...what did you buy?

New release: Foo Fighters- Wasting Light

One would be forgiven for having limited expectations for the new Foo Fighters cd "Wasting Light". After the interesting but ultimately failed experiment of 2005's "In Your Honor", a snoozer live acoustic record and 2007's near-miss "Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace", the band's longtime fans have reason to doubt. Sure, there were some great moments on those records, no question, but overall they seemed to fall a little flat.

Well I'm happy to report that Dave Grohl and Company have made the Foo Fighters record we've been waiting for. They're back, and none too soon. As has been documented elsewhere, "Wasting Light " was recorded in Grohl's garage. Bringing things back to basics it would seem. It worked. The album features the return of Foos guitarist (and former Germ) Pat Smear, with contributions from Krist Novoselic, Bob Mould and Fee Waybill (!). The album roars out of the speakers and bears its rock and roll heart on its sleeve in the best possible way.

All the strengths of the band are on display here. Take the opening numbers for example, "Bridge Burning" and "Rope", a solid one-two punch to begin the proceedings. There are lots of catchy melodies too, like the middle section of "These Days", "Back And Forth" and "A Matter Of Time", at least one of which is guaranteed to get stuck in your head. But it doesn't stop there. The Foos have a newly acquired groove on this album (most notably on "Dear Rosemary") that gives the sound a welcome fresh dash of paint. And, once again, working with Josh Homme pays off in the borderline QOTSA song "White Limo".

This is not to say that the CD is perfect. In the quest for immediacy this album has, some songs feel cut short before they have a chance to blossom. Others have a few too many stop/starts. There are a few of varying quality, but song for song it's stronger than the last two FF records combined.

"Wasting Light" is the CD that brings the Foo Fighters back to form. It is immediate, loud, fun, and a top notch pure rock record. The world needs more of those, and bless Dave Grohl for delivering one to us. 4 out of 5 Daves.

Update 4/7/11

Apologies for the lack of content around here the past few weeks. Sometimes other things get in the way, but now it's back to business. Kinks To Reunite? As we all know, Ray Davies has made a bit of a comeback over the past few years with two strong albums, "Other People's Lives" and the stellar "Working Man's Cafe". The inevitable Kinks reunion question continues to surface and Ray has always been open to the idea. He has suggested several times that it was close to happening. But to do it properly, he'd need his brother Dave on board. When told last year about Ray's stating that a reunion of the Kinks was close to happening his reply was simply "Ray's an asshole." Undeterred, Ray then stated that he'd just do it without Dave. Well, this must have lit a fire because Dave seems to have lightened up a little towards the prospect. Hopefully some news coming our way soon. Meanwhile, Ray Davies has just released a duets style album entitled, appropriately enough, "See My Friends". Expect a review here shortly. More Iron Maiden in 2011 My all time favorite heavy metal band, Iron Maiden, has announced yet another best of package. Titled "From Fear To Eternity" it focuses solely on the records from 1990 on. Since the band has focused on longer songs in the past 10 years they have decided to make this a 2 disc release. Does the world need another Maiden compilation? No. The band claims the reasoning behind the release is to educate newer fans about the past catalogue, which is the same excuse behind the "Somewhere Back In Time collection a few years back. Doesn't ring true though, if anything this CD should be a primer to the new stuff for older fans who may have drifted away. Seems irrelevant anyway as Maiden's fans are incredibly loyal and probably have all the music anyway. And therein lies the bigger problem for yours truly. I've got every album the band has put out but the completionist in me won't let me not buy this...which is sad. What is not sad, however, is that Iron Maiden will release a new live collection at the end of the year. It will feature a show from the last leg of the "Final Frontier" tour. The only disappointment here is that this is the version of the show that the U.S. didn't get (with a few exceptions coming up this year). The set list is much more well rounded than the one we got last summer (don't get me wrong, the shows were great but as a long time fan I missed some of the older songs), Production wise, it seems that the show got bigger and better...and has a brand new "giant Eddie" which we all love so much. (I hate to say it, but it almost seems as though the U.S. shows were purposely lacking. No proof of that mind you, just thinking out loud.) Anyway, something to look forward to later this year. Okay, that wraps it up for now. Keep checking in, there's more to come.

Recent Release: Dropkick Murphys - "Going Out In Style"

Here's a treat for your St. Patrick's Day listening enjoyment. My favorite Celtic punk rock band (there are a surprising amount), Dropkick Murphys have returned with a brand new album. This is not just once a year music, however, these guys make records to digest and listen to year round.

Their current release, "Going Out In Style", is a loose concept album based around the life of Boston hero Cornelius Larkin, an Irish immigrant who went on to be a Korean War veteran and organizer with the International Longshoreman's Association. The songs do not appear to be in any particular order conceptually which seems odd for telling a man's life story. I believe that if the songs had been presented chronologically the overall piece would have been more effective. As it stands most of the war stuff is lumped together with the love story angle thrown on at the end. So this album is a bit of a difficult listen in some respects, but it is still highly worthwhile.

All the hallmarks of a classic DKM release are here. Loud guitars, fast tempos, bagpipes, tin whistles, accordion and gang-style big choruses are all represented. The standard covers of traditional Irish songs are represented with "The Irish Rover" and "Peg O' My Heart", the latter featuring a guest vocal by Bruce Springsteen. Both are fun and well done. There is the prerequisite union song "Take 'Em Down" which will get stuck in your head no matter what your feelings are on the topic. Songs about brotherhood, family and "inherited pride" are typical topics for DKM, they are all represented here. I'm not exactly sure where "Sunday Hardcore Matinee" fits into this man's story, but this is rock and roll, so I'll let it pass. Many of these songs are bound to become live staples, With fine examples such as the title track, "The Hardest Mile" and "Deeds Not Words" this new material is DKM's best in years. "Going Out In Style" doesn't top their classics "Do Or Die" and "Sing Loud , Sing Proud", but it is nipping at their heels.

From the preceding paragraph one may get the idea that this sounds like everything else the band's ever done and if you've heard one record you've heard 'em all. Well, yes and no. The band do tend to stick to the same format disc to disc and certainly the traditional elements bind them to a certain way of writing and performing. However, each CD has its own personality. This one tends to be a bit darker than some of the band's earlier releases, but it has more heart than most. It's the little things that make each Dropkick Murphys release unique, and this disc is certainly a standout in their catalogue.

4 out of 5 Daves.

Recent Release:Drive-By Truckers - Go-Go Boots

*In the interest of full disclosure it should be noted that I am a major Drive-By Truckers fan. They are my favorite band working. I've attended many shows, bought all the records and a ton of merch, and even gave my son a name highly associated with the band. Just thought that should be said up front.

The Drive-By Truckers have released a new album entitled "Go-Go Boots", and it represents a side of the band not thoroughly explored on other releases. It is quite the change of pace. This is the kind of record that can really only be evaluated years after its release when taken in as part of the band's full catalog (like Zeppelin III-misunderstood at the time but classic now). But we're dealing with the here and now. And right now, it's a mixed bag.

The idea here is to tap into the country-soul and straight up country roots of the band. These qualities have always been present, but are expanded and focused on here, as are the "story" songs that make up a significant part of this record. Individually, there are a good amount of songs to please here, most of which would add to the color of any other DBT disc. However, when put together on the same disc the end result feels a little flat.

DBT are, at their core, a kick ass southern rock band. So there should be a few rock songs here, right? Nope. The album seldom gets above a mid tempo groove. Not that that's an entirely bad thing but it is unexpected and, for this fan, unwelcome.

The high point is an Eddie Hinton cover song called "Everybody Needs Love" which is fantastic. Most of the highlights belong to Patterson Hood who is all over this record from the opening charmer "I Do Believe", the Vietnam Vet inspired "Ray's Automatic Weapon", ex-record company basher "Assholes", and the sinisterly upbeat closer "Mercy Buckets". Unfortunately Hood is also responsible for the complete dud of a title track and a regrettable time waster called "The Thanksgiving Filter".

There are a few puzzling decisions made here as well. For example "Go-Go Boots" and "The Fireplace Poker" are both story songs that appear to be about the same story. While they are definitely different songs, did we really need them both (especially when the latter is so much better)? Also, in what could have been the best song here, "Used To Be A Cop", the song just begs to explode at the end into a guitar driven climax, but instead just limps out. Perhaps it was intentional. Since the song's character never goes over the edge, the music doesn't either. But it's a little disappointing.

The other Truckers check in here too. Mike Cooley, who can always be counted on to deliver comes through in a big way with "The Weakest Man" and "Pulaski", though just barely misses the mark with his "Cartoon Gold". And bassist Shonna Tucker delivers her obligatory two songs as well. I really like her voice (kinda Tammy Wynette-ish), but I've always felt her songs don't quite fit the band's style and slow down the proceedings. Here, however they fit in perfectly. Which tells you all you need to know.

Once again, I don't think "Go-Go Boots" is a bad record by any means, and it has the potential to grow into a favorite of the fan base over time. But as for now...

3 out of 5 Daves

Also released is the new Drive-By Truckers EP "Sometimes Late At Night". It consists of one Vic Chestnutt cover tune and five live songs. This is the release of choice. "When I Run Off And Left Her" would have been a fine addition to the "Go-Go Boots" record, cover tune or not. As for the live material, it only goes to show why DBT are such a great, vital band. Upon listening to the live tracks for songs that did make their new record, it's clearer as to what the band was trying to do and proves that these "Go-Go" songs may have life to them yet. Throw in an over the top version of Cooley's "Get Downtown" and a fun show closing trip to "Buttholeville" and this is a great collection that left me wanting more.

5 out of 5 Daves

Quick Update March 7, 2011

Sorry for the lack of activity here. When you run a blog as a hobby sometimes real life gets in the way and you have to put it on hold for a while. Things will be back up and running soon.

Coming up will be the long promised Drive-By Truckers review. I was a victim of the now infamous pre-order foul up and didn't get the disc until well after its release date. Then, being a fan, I had to absorb this one a little bit. I'll also review their bonus EP as well.

Just in time for St. Patrick's Day there's a new Dropkick Murphys CD out as well. Look for that review shortly.

I also made a stupid big purchase over the weekend and bought "The Beatles in Mono" box set. It occurred to me that I never bothered with buying the remasters when they came out two years ago and was planning on starting that project soon, so I just took the plunge and picked this up. I'm sure there will be some talk about that too.

I'll try to squeeze in the new Eddie Spaghetti and R.E.M. releases soon, but the ol' wallet is getting thinner so we'll see what happens there. Plus, I'm going to start features on some classic albums/bands in the near future as well.

So as you can see, there's a lot brewing here. Check back soon and check it out.

Hayes Carll "Another Like You"

Here's another great song from Hayes Carll's new cd KMAG YOYO. Go buy it.

Recent Release:Hayes Carll-KMAG YOYO

(Sorry for all the excess stuff at the beginning and end, it was the clearest version I could find).

If the country music establishment didn't suck and programmers had any brains, then more people would know about Hayes Carll, and he'd be the biggest name in country music. But that's not how things work, so if you don't know let me clue you in.

Hayes Carll's new album, KMAG YOYO (military code for "Kiss My Ass Guys, You're On Your Own") is one of the best alt-country albums you're likely to hear this year. The title track is a view of Afghanistan by a teenage soldier set to a rockin' swamp beat (see above). It's a great song, and it's one of my least favorites on the record.

The album opens with "Stomp And Holler", a working class, party time anthem. Multiple styles are represented here from rock to hillbilly country, bluesy folk and beyond. All styles are played with respect and handled brilliantly. Carll has put together a crack band that can make you want to dance and then turn on a dime and make you cry into your beer.

Okay, so how are the lyrics? Spot on, thank you very much. Carll discusses his life spent with too much time on the road and in too many seedy bars, but also goes bigger than that. Relationships of all kinds are discussed, from familial in "Thank God For Christmas", to the desperate ("Hide Me" and "Chances Are"). And how often do you hear a hobo song these days? Try "Bottle In My Hand" for a glimpse into the life of a modern wanderer.

Perhaps the best song on the record (and if not best then certainly favorite) is called "Another Like You". It is a duet performed perfectly by Hayes and Cary Ann Hearst. The music is classic country, but the lyrics are a decidedly modern look at the possibilities of two people from opposite sides of the fence who just may find themselves together. This tale of bi-partisan lust is not quite as funny as his classic "She Left Me For Jesus" from Carll's last record "Trouble In Mind", but it's a lot more accessible and still good fun.

So, great songs and great performances. The pacing is a little sleepy in the second half, but the individual songs are solid. I can't recommend this enough.

4 and 1/2 out of 5 Daves

Recent Release:Mr. Big-What If...

Mr. Big is back with a brand new album entitled "What if...". It's a good place to start for people who may be new to the band, and is recommended for those who only are familiar with "To Be With You" and the unfortunate spandex years. For those of us who were fans back in the day, pick it up immediately and wonder what the hell took so long.

Lead single, "Undertow" eases the listener in. The song reminds us instantly of the Mr. Big sound and reminds us that melodic hard rock doesn't have to suck, while hinting at the musical prowess of the band. Then the album explodes.

Make no mistake, this is a rock album. From the riff-o-rama sounds of "American Beauty", the Zeppelin influenced "Nobody Left To Blame", ensemble show off piece "Still Ain't Enough For Me" to feel good closer "I Get The Feeling" there's a lot here to blast from the car speakers. The music is solid hard rock, with an unmistakable groove that has always set Mr. Big apart from their contemporaries. Hell, the intro to ""I Won't get In My Way" even has an almost Iron Maiden feel to it. So all doubters can now officially be silenced.

Yes, there are still some ballads here, it wouldn't be a Mr. Big record without a few. One is actually just a slow tempo contemplative song called "Stranger In My Life" which isn't great, but is an effective mood changer. The other, "All The Way Up" masquerades as a typical rock ballad, treading dangerously into "hair" territory until the chorus, when it is revealed that the song is lamenting a literal lost love, conveying more depth and feeling than one would assume. An good trick, and it works.

And for all you musos, yes, the band is in fine form here. Drummer Pat Torpey still lays down a mean groove and his technical elements have only gotten better. Eric Martin still sings with a clean, soulful voice. Though he sings in a slightly lower register (age will do that to you) it suits him. Billy Sheehan plays his ass off as one of the few "Lead bassists" out there and does nothing to tarnish his reputation here. And of course this CD marks the return of guitarist Paul Gilbert. Here is where long time fans rejoice as Gilbert's sound and songs were missed during his absence. his fingers are on fire.

Yet, for all my praising of the disc, it doesn't all work. Some songs just never really get beyond the main riff as an idea. Others are attempts to sound more current that fall short. And, as much as I love the guy, there are points in which Mr. Gilbert needs to pull back a touch. While overplaying is encouraged in this band, a few solos stand out as being too much, and that's saying something!

Still, those complaints are small when compared with the positives on this record. The band has never sounded more alive. These songs move and breathe and prove that Mr. Big is still a musical force to be reckoned with. Well done.

4 out of 5 Daves.

Recent Release:...And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead-Tao Of The Dead

(okay so I said I wouldn't use any single image you tube stuff. I was wrong. Get over it.)

The band with the longest name in rock is back with their seventh album. For those unaware, Trail Of Dead (I'm not typing all that out anymore) are an indie neo-prog rock band. Think The Pixies meet early Pink Floyd and you've got a good frame of reference. The band's strengths lie in the ability to mix multiple styles (punk, prog, folk, pop, whatever) into one cohesive package. That talent is certainly on display here, yet while the band has many strengths they are not without their weaknesses.

The good news about this record is that everything fans love about Trail Of Dead is here in abundance. Few groups today can create a soundscape the way T.O.D. (how's that for shortening the name?) do. This album takes the listener to many areas from the immediacy of opening track "Pure Radio Cosplay" which kicks off in an almost pop-punk vein to the all out fire of single "Summer Of All Dead Souls" to the acoustic song with the metal riff called "Weight Of The Sun", and the drifting "Ebb Away" there's plenty to sink one's teeth into here. Long time fans should be pleased, and new listeners intrigued.

But T.O.D. are an art rock band, and as with most bands of this nature the experiments run both ways. "Tao Of The Dead" is (so) divided into two separate parts, played in two different tunings. The first part takes up the majority of the disc, and is the most exciting part of the record. Part two:"Strange News From Another Planet" is a five part suite. It is also the name of principal songwriter Conrad Keely's graphic novel, the first section of which makes up the booklet for the disc.

Here's where the trouble comes in. All packaging would indicate that this is a concept album, but Keely has stated it is not. Surely "Strange News..." is, but if the rest is not then why are the songs in part one interconnected, and why are elements from the comic referenced in it? Perhaps in the age of the digital download the question is moot, but if the band is going to go to as much trouble with the packaging as is done here then there's got to be a reason, right? I mean, hey, it looks great but connect some dots guys.

Musically there are some issues as well, especially with part two. How shall I put this delicately? Part two of this record is, well...pretty boring. Especially after the extremes the listener is taken to throughout the first part of the disc. Perhaps it would have worked better as an opening sequence? Or did it need to be at the end because this actually is a concept record?

Obviously I am unsure of the conceptual nature. Certainly multiple themes are addressed but I'm not sure where the lyrics are going. The lyrics are not provided, which is fine, but it does make things harder to understand. That may be by design, I'm not sure. I do know that the mix could have been better, the vocals are too low throughout most of the album. It's okay to be a little vague and let the listener interpret for him or herself, but these issues all add up to getting in the way of my enjoyment of this disc. Which is a pity because i really like a lot of it. I just don't know what it all means.

All in all I do recommend "Tao Of The Dead" as a listening experience. There are some shortcomings to be sure, but this is the type of record, and band for that matter, that requires multiple listens to truly appreciate. So the next time you feel like listening to some art, or just challenging yourself a little musically, this would be a good way to go.

Rating: 3 out of 5 Daves.

What's Going On Here?

Okay, not entirely sure why, but my own blog seems to be against me. The Motorhead review I did last week has disappeared. I can find it, but I can't get to it so I can repost it. I didn't even use any video in it, just straight text so there should not have been a problem.

Speaking of video, I have tried to include some cool stuff on my already delayed review of Trail Of Dead's new record, but can't get it to load. So that's still coming but it's just not going to be what I want it to be.

I am also waiting on some new music. I ordered a new disc to review, paid extra for quick shipping ('cause I don't get sent stuff, this is all out of pocket and out of passion for the material), and I still don't have the product in my hand. In fact, I received my notice that the discs in question were shipped today, a day after the releases date. What's the point of a pre-order if the disc arrives after the street date? Wasted money on that one, hopefully the music is worth it.

So I'm postponing work for a day or so. I'm just frustrated and won't be able to do anything good until I step away for a while. Hopefully everything will go smoothly from here on out. Back soon with more stuff. Thanks for reading. Tell your friends.

Random Thoughts On The Grammys

So the Grammys are over for another year. It's been years since I watched with anything other than mild interest, but because of this blog I decided to make the effort. About 1/2 hour into the show I realised that this was my chance to really discover what the rest of the world is listening to. My favorite bands don't get nominated. Well, sometimes they do, but not very often, and seldom for any televised awards. So here are my thoughts as I scribbled them down during the broadcast. Apologies to my brother for stealing this format.

-Opening: Okay but too long. Turned out to be less a tribute to Aretha and more an excuse to show off. It has been remarked that this was Christina Aguilera's chance to redeem herself after last Sunday's fiasco. She did a good job, but if she wanted to redeem herself she should have sang the National Anthem to kick off the show. That would have been great.

-Stop rewarding Train please.

-Dear Lady Ga-Ga, I don't care what kind of crazy crap you wear, nothing beats Elton John in his Central Park concert appearance dressed like Donald Duck. Nothing. Also, why does your "Born This Way" song sound so much like Madonna's "Express Yourself?"

-Kinda liked Miranda Lambert's song. Liked her better-she looked exactly like a Southern woman should when she gets dressed up. Big hair, dress a touch too small and no attempt to hide the accent or her southern roots. Bless her.

-Muse was pretty cool. Never paid them much attention before but now I'm interested. There will be those tomorrow who say that the revolution based visuals were in poor taste with what's gone on in Egypt and all. I say good show. It's rock and roll, no political correctness allowed.

-Surprisingly, I dug Bruno Mars. Had kind of a hard edged Smokey Robinson vibe. Not technically perfect note to note, but a full on performance and that's the kind of soul music I like.

-Every time I see Usher I like to pretend he's actually Webster. Made the whole Justin Beiber thing kinda weird. And funny.

-The Avett Brothers and Mumford And Sons were both very good and entertaining. High quality stuff. But then Bob Dylan came out. I know he's getting up there, but what happened to his voice? Sounds like Lemmy doing a Dylan impersonation.

-Jeff Beck looks like Alice Cooper after a punch in the nose. Yikes.

-Jamey Johnson deserved the Country award. Lady Antebellum winning was a joke...but not as bad as Zac Brown winning.

-Um, Cee Lo...um, what the hell was that? Elton John meets George Clinton...with Gwyneth Paltrow. Okay. Didn't need the puppets-I think Cee Lo might be a puppet. The most entertaining song all night.

-"Jolene" is a great song. So good even Norah Jones and John Mayer couldn't screw it up and make it boring...like the rest of their songs.

-Seth Rogen's joke better than Neil Patrick Harris. Meaner though.

-All right, reluctantly, Katy Perry is kinda hot. I feel bad about that.

-Still don't get the Eminem thing.

-Until tonight I'd never heard of Esperanza Spalding. Best New Artist, huh? Good for her I guess.

-Nice to see a Solomon Burke tribute. Too bad Belushi's dead, he would have been better than Jagger, and Mick hit it out of the park!

-Jennifer Lopez looked pissed off all night like she didn't want to be there.

-Okay, you're wrong Academy. "Need You Now" officially sucks. Officially. Sentimental and insipid.

-Arcade Fire made a lot of noise. Not a fan, but that was pretty good. Also it's nice to see the broadcast go out with a rock song.

There was more but I think that's enough. Oh, except for one thing. Isn't this supposed to be an awards show first? I mean, there used to be a lot more awards given out and now they seem like an afterthought to the performances. Don't get me wrong, it's entertaining. I just think that by televising fewer awards some artists aren't getting their due respect. The fun parts of these shows are the spontaneous moments and the very human emotions of the winners and sometimes the losers too. It might make for a more well rounded and satisfying show. Just sayin'.

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Brief Update

The Grammys are being held tonight. Look here afterwards for my post. I'll try not to make it all about "this sucked, that sucked, so-and-so got cheated", but I make no promises. Stay tuned.

...And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead put out a new record this past week. I wrote a review of it and lost it somehow. I'll try to find it and put it back up or write a new one if I get time. It was a great review though...insightful, humorous, beautifully written, you'd have loved it. Trust me.

I was remiss in my Motorhead review not to have mentioned the guitar work of Phil Campbell on this new record. Always an underrated player, he recorded these tracks while looking after his dying father. That could have gone either way as emotions can either make your playing great or totally distract you and negatively affect performance. Fortunately the former is true here. It's the best he's ever done. And the more I listen I think I may need to give this record that extra half Dave after all.

Also, I realise that there was no clip with the review as has been my habit so far. Well, it's my blog so I can do what I want, but the reason is that I couldn't find anything new I liked that was not fan shot footage, or just a still of the album cover while a song played. Not a fan of that... I mean, at least use a collage! So sorry, no clip.

Check back tonight after the Grammys for the next post.

Recent Release:Motorhead-The World Is Yours

Not much needs to be said about a new Motorhead release. When you put on Motorhead you know what you're getting. Loud guitar, gargle-with-razor-blades vocals, and tough as nails rock and roll. The only question is, does the new release live up to the legacy?

Well, difficult question since the early 80s albums are total classics that can't really be equaled. However, through all the years of multiple line ups and labels (35 years and counting!) the band has stayed fairly consistent. So even if the newer material isn't instantly classic, it's still pretty damn good. And that's all due to Lemmy.

For those who don't know (if not, why not?) Lemmy Kilmister is the leader and chief songwriter of Motorhead. He is iconic. He is a giant middle finger to the establishment and the status quo. He has bedded more women (somehow) and taken more speed than pretty much anybody (no, seriously, his blood is toxic!). Now I may not always agree with his lifestyle or philosophical world view but I love Lemmy. Few others can claim to be as rock and roll as he, and fewer still can back it up.

Which is why Motorhead rules, as they've proven time and time again. And this new release, The World Is Yours, is another testament to their legacy. There is a misconception out there that Motorhead is a heavy metal band, and they are undeniably heavy, but the boys are a straight up rock and roll band. From the stand out opener "Born To Lose" to the boogie based "Rock And Roll Music", the chug along glee of "Get Back In Line" and the heavy handed "Brotherhood Of Man" , the new record, while not necessarily one of the best, still has plenty of moments to please any Motorhead fan, those who have been following all along and new converts as well. It is loud, bold, obnoxious, and politically incorrect. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

3.5 out of 5 Daves.

Update 2/6/11

R.I.P. to Gary Moore. Best known as a solo blues guitarist, Moore also did stints with Thin Lizzy and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers. He was one of those unsung heroes who deserved much more attention and accolades than he received. The blues rock community lost one of its' best.

Also...R.I.P. to the Black Eyed Peas career after that horrible Super Bowl half-time performance. I don't say this because I'm not a fan of their music, I say it because the show was truly terrible. Sure, all the effects and light-up people looked good, but sound problems plagued the set and it never seemed to flow musically. Everyone involved should be embarrassed. Especially Slash. Hell, that was so bad it almost made Christina Aguilera look good.

Poor Christina. She even dressed up nice to sing the national anthem tonight, being very respectful of the material and position she was in. And then she botched the words. Now, in her defense, we've all forgotten words to songs from time to time-even the songs we write. And "The Star Spangled Banner" is a difficult song to sing well. It takes concentration to hit the right notes. I know, I sang it for years in school choirs. But come on, girl. You couldn't get a teleprompter? Write it on your hand? Anything? On the country's biggest stage she should have known that thing backwards and forwards and be able to sing it in her sleep. Ah well, it was still better than Roseanne Barr's version. And REO Speedwagon's too (I'd provide links here but why?).

And there's your last minute update. Back soon.

Week In Review

Here's my take on what's been happening this week.

White Stripes Break Up

The White Stripes made it official this week. The breakup is not too surprising, really. Jack White has had multiple side projects, and is busy making records with legendary female artists so something had to give. It seems to me that The White Stripes had gone about as far as they could. I freely admit that I'm not much of a White Stripes fan. A few songs here and there but overall I was never particularly impressed. I always liked what I thought they were trying to do more than what was actually accomplished (though I enjoy Jack's side projects much more). So no big eulogy here but still worth noting and giving a tip of the hat to the band.

Rolling Stones Tour? Probably.

The rumours have been flying about a possible 5oth anniversary tour by The Rolling Stones. Band members have both confirmed and denied a tour in separate interviews. The most recent development being a mention of said tour in the lawsuit involving Live Nation and an ousted executive. The current statement from The Stones is that there are no "firm plans" to tour. Which says to me that plans are still up in the air, or being finalized as we speak. Their iconic logo has already appeared on the website for the Glastonbury Festival so it's almost a given they will be playing. It's just that contracts and the suits won't let any details out until the ink is all dry. It is my prediction, therefore, that we'll see a tour this year. My advice would be to go if you get the chance. The band still puts on a good show, and even they can't do it forever.

Rush To Revisit "Vapor Trails"

Legendary progressive rock trio (and one of my all time favorite bands) Rush are about to do something interesting for their fans. Their "Vapor Trails" album has been seen as a mixed bag since its release in 2002. It is a dark record, both musically and lyrically. Not surprising since it came on the heels of drummer/lyricist Neil Peart losing his wife and daughter and the understandable downtime involved. The material is not quite up to par in my opinion, but it is not without its high points. Part of the reason for my, and many other Rush fans' disappointment with the record was with the sound. Most Rush albums invite repeated listening, but this was actually difficult to listen to. Muddy, flat, and overly abrasive are all appropriate. Well, the boys are about to make amends. They are completely remixing the CD. No rewrites or re-recording to be done, which is as it should be. The record is a document of the band at that time and should remain so. However, brightening the songs up and letting the writing shine through may just be what's needed to give this disc a more prominent place in the Rush catalog. Even if it doesn't, kudos to the band for trying to right a wrong, noticing a mistake and doing their best to make things right with the fan base.

Happy Birthday to Alice Cooper. The originator of theatrical rock, and still the best.

Coming Up: New releases by Motorhead, Drive-By Truckers and more.

Recent Releases: Wanda Jackson-The Party Ain't Over

My God, she sounds like she's twenty!

This was the first thought I had when listening to "The Party Ain't Over" by Wanda Jackson (with Jack White). About three songs later I picked my jaw up off the floor and didn't wipe the smile from my face until the end of the CD.

Quick history lesson for those who don't know. If Elvis Presley is the king of early American Rock and Roll, then Wanda's the queen. And she deserves to be. She's had to settle for the "queen of Rockabilly" title, which is great, but her fame deserves to be so much more. She is arguably the first female rock and roll singer. She was the first female rocker to become big in Japan. After her Rockabilly days she had a string of Country hits and some success with Gospel as well. now she's back in the spotlight and enjoying the recognition she so richly deserves.

As far as the CD goes, it's just fabulous. I've been a fan of Jackson's for quite some time (my German import hits disc, "Wanda Rocks" has been in heavy rotation for about two years now). She could sing with power, she could coo, she could make you laugh and scare the hell out of you all in the same song. And she still can. About halfway through the record when she sings "You Know I'm No Good" and "Teach Me Tonight" she still sounds like the purring kitty she was all those years ago. That's right, Wanda makes being a Senior sound sexy. No one else can do that, not even Mick Jagger.

The chosen material is all top notch. From the classics "Shakin' All Over" and "Rip It Up" to her Gospel nod "Dust On The Bible" and a joyful rendition of "Rum and Coca Cola"(!) there's not a bad song in the bunch.

My only small complaint (and it is small) would be in the mix. Jack White's fuzzed out guitar is a bit too loud in places (though sometimes that's a good thing), and Wanda's voice seems a touch low at times. Now I am no fan of Mr. White or his main band The White Stripes. However, I do like what he's been doing with his other projects, and if he keeps on doing stellar work with legendary artists (he did the same for Loretta Lynn a while back) then my hat is off to the man for the service he's providing.

Rating: 4 1/2 out of 5 Daves

Check out the clip for a sample of the awesomeness that is Wanda Jackson.

Now that's how it's done, kids! If that didn't get you moving check your pulse-you may be dead.

Social Distortion - Machine Gun Blues

This was supposed to be part of the last post. "Machine Gun Blues is the official single from the record so I thought I'd include it here. If you like this one there's more and better on the actual CD. Pick it up.

Recent Release: Social Distortion-Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes

It's been about five or six years now, so it must be time for a new album by Social D.!

Social Distortion have returned with a new album that finally delivers on the hinted promises of their previous releases. Starting out life over thirty years ago as a teenage punk rock band, over the years Mike Ness and co. have been dropping in little bits of Americana, Blues and even Pop Rock here and there throughout thier career. Sooner or later it had to culminate into one disc and this is it.

The punk rock greaser heart is still beating strong but it has been supplemented with a Stones-like swagger. After the punk/surf instrumental opener "Road Zombie" we get a song straight out of the Jagger/Richards mold called "California (Hustle And Flow), complete with back-up singers and everything. Doesn't sound right on paper but it works well.

The album moves along in more or less similar fashion until the middle when it's slow down time. The 70's blues rock influenced "Bakersfield" is technically a good song but brings the proceedings to a halt here. Perhaps it's the vocals. Ness still sounds like a snot-nosed California punker, which works most of the time, but is a bit of a hindrance here as that approach doesn't really lend itself to conveying the emotion called for by the song. The "Stones-al D." style misses the mark in a few other places like the relatively bland "Machine Gun Blues" (Social D. light to me) and "Writing On The Wall".

Fortunately things pick back up for the last two tracks, the rollicking "Can't Take It With You" and last blast statement "Still Alive." Also of note is a punked out version of the Hank Williams classic "Alone And Forsaken" which may be the key song of the whole disc.

So overall a quality release. Some longtime fans may complain about what they see as a softening up of the band, but I disagree. It's not going soft so much as expanding the sound. "Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes" is probably the ideal starting point for newbies and a treat for open minded fans.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Daves.

First Words

Hello out there.

This blog will be exactly what the title conveys . As a self confessed music geek I will be spouting my opinions on the music that moves me. I'll be reviewing new and old releases, ranting about what's going on in the music world and posting whatever the hell else I find appropriate.

As far as genre goes, I'll be focusing mostly on Rock (classic and current), Alternative, Outlaw Country, and pretty much anything else that is even remotely related to the above. I'll try to post relevant links and song/video samples when available.

I've got some ideas for some cosmetic fixes around here, but that will come in time.

The whole point with this blog is to hopefully turn people on to some music that they may otherwise miss or perhaps not give a fair listen. Hopefully the comments will provide some spirited discussions (and maybe hip me to some new sounds as well). Comments are always welcome, insults are not.

Back soon with some reviews of recent releases. 'Til then, turn it up.

P.S. About that name, I know it ain't exactly hipster, but this blog ain't for the scenesters. So there.